Frosted Pineapple & Cranberry Rum Smash (Refreshing Holiday Cocktail)

Nothing says festive and tropical at the same time like a Frosted Pineapple & Cranberry Rum Smash (Refreshing Holiday Cocktail). This vibrant drink combines sweet pineapple, tart cranberries, smooth rum, and a frosty crushed ice base to create a cocktail that’s both refreshing and celebratory.

Perfect for winter holidays, summer gatherings, or any time you want a festive cocktail, this recipe is easy to make yet feels elevated. Its balance of sweetness, acidity, and boozy warmth ensures that every sip is a party in your mouth.

Whether you’re hosting friends, looking for a signature drink, or just want a tropical twist on a cranberry cocktail, this rum smash is a crowd-pleaser.

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Why This Cocktail Stands Out

• Balance of flavors: Sweet pineapple meets tart cranberries and lime acidity.
• Smooth rum: White or spiced rum adds depth without overpowering the fruit.
• Crushed ice base: Keeps it frosty, light, and refreshing.
• Simple syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness to tie flavors together.

This drink feels indulgent without being overly complicated, making it ideal for entertaining.

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Flavor & Texture Profile

• Sweetness: From fresh pineapple and simple syrup.
• Tartness: Cranberries provide a subtle tang.
• Alcohol warmth: Rum adds depth and rounds out the flavors.
• Frosty texture: Crushed ice creates a refreshing mouthfeel.

The combination is perfect for sipping slowly or serving in batches for a festive crowd.

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Ingredients

• 2 oz white or spiced rum
• ½ cup fresh pineapple chunks
• ¼ cup fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)
• ½ oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• Crushed ice
• Pineapple wedge and mint sprig for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, muddle pineapple chunks, cranberries, and simple syrup until juices release.
2. Add rum and fresh lime juice to the muddled fruit.
3. Fill a serving glass with crushed ice.
4. Strain or pour muddled fruit and rum mixture over ice.
5. Stir gently to combine and chill.
6. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, fresh cranberries, and a mint sprig.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy the frosty, fruity flavors.

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Tips for the Best Rum Smash

• Crush your ice: For a frosted texture, pulse ice in a blender or crush in a bag.
• Adjust sweetness: Use more or less simple syrup depending on pineapple ripeness.
• Rum choice: White rum is light and bright; spiced rum adds warmth and depth.
• Muddle gently: Over-muddling cranberries can make the drink too bitter.

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Flavor Variations

• Tropical Twist: Add a splash of coconut rum for extra tropical flair.
• Spiced Cranberry: Sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
• Sparkling Version: Top with club soda or sparkling water for fizz.
• Frozen Version: Blend with ice for a frozen rum smash slush.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve in a frosted glass for a holiday presentation.
• Pair with light appetizers like shrimp skewers, cheese boards, or fruit platters.
• Perfect as a signature cocktail for holiday parties or brunch gatherings.

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Make-Ahead Tips & Storage

• Pre-mix the rum, pineapple juice, and simple syrup for easy batch cocktails.
• Store muddled fruit separately and combine just before serving to maintain freshness.
• Garnish just before serving to keep vibrant colors and textures.

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Why This Cocktail Works for Any Season

Although it’s tropical, the cranberry component makes it versatile for winter holidays, while the pineapple adds brightness suitable for summer events. This cocktail bridges seasons effortlessly.

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Final Thoughts

The Frosted Pineapple & Cranberry Rum Smash (Refreshing Holiday Cocktail) is simple, flavorful, and festive. Its balance of sweet, tart, and boozy notes makes it ideal for entertaining or treating yourself. With crushed ice, vibrant fruit, and a frosty presentation, it’s a cocktail that looks as good as it tastes—guaranteed to impress every guest.