The Malibu Sunset is an irresistibly vibrant cocktail that captures all the best parts of summer in a single glass. With its tropical flavors and mesmerizing layered look, this classic drink is a showstopper for anyone who craves something sweet, fruity, and utterly refreshing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Paradise-Inspired Flavor: Every sip brings you a splash of coconut, tropical fruits, and a hint of sweetness—it’s a vacation in a glass.
- Beautiful Layers: That sunset gradient from the grenadine is both striking and Instagram-worthy, guaranteed to wow guests at any occasion.
- Quick & Easy: No complicated steps or bar tools needed; you can whip up a Malibu Sunset in just minutes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for pool parties, backyard BBQs, or simply winding down after a long day—everyone adores the flavor and colors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Malibu Sunset couldn’t be simpler, but every ingredient serves a special purpose here—each one adds to the taste, color, and signature tropical vibe of the drink. Gather these essentials and you’ll be dreaming of sandy beaches before your first sip.
- Ice Cubes: The key to keeping your drink refreshingly cold and creating those gorgeous layers as you pour.
- 3 to 4 ounces pineapple-orange juice blend: This mix brings a bright, tangy, ultra-fruity base—the ultimate tropical combo that pairs perfectly with Malibu rum.
- 2 ounces Malibu Coconut Rum: The star of the show! Malibu imparts creamy coconut flavor and that unmistakable Caribbean vibe.
- Grenadine (drizzled): For that magical sunset effect and a touch of sweet, berry-like flair at the bottom of your glass.
- Maraschino cherries (for garnish): These little pops of color add a playful touch and an extra hint of sweetness.
- Pineapple and/or orange slices (for garnish): Fresh fruit garnishes not only look irresistible, but also enhance those bright, juicy flavors.
Variations
One of the best things about the Malibu Sunset is how endlessly customizable it can be! Feel free to experiment with your favorite juices, swap out the spirits, or garnish according to what’s in season or suits your taste.
- Berry Twist: Substitute part of the juice blend with cranberry or raspberry juice for an even more vibrant hue and tangy finish.
- Mocktail Magic: Skip the rum and use coconut water or a splash of coconut extract with extra juice for a gorgeous alcohol-free version.
- Extra Citrus Kick: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice if you love a tarter, zesty compliment to the sweetness.
- Bubbly Sunset: Top with a splash of club soda or lemon-lime sparkling water for a little effervescence and fizz.
How to Make Malibu Sunset
Step 1: Fill Your Glass with Ice
Start by filling a tall glass—like a highball or hurricane glass—right up with plenty of ice cubes. Not only does this chill your cocktail beautifully, but it also helps you achieve those pretty, separated layers.
Step 2: Add Juice and Malibu
Pour in the pineapple-orange juice blend, followed closely by the Malibu Coconut Rum. Give it a gentle stir to combine—this will form the luscious, golden base of your Malibu Sunset.
Step 3: Create the Sunset with Grenadine
Slowly drizzle grenadine down the inside of the glass; watch as it sinks to the bottom and diffuses upward, creating that magical, ombré “sunset” effect. Don’t stir—let gravity do the work!
Step 4: Garnish Generously and Enjoy
Top your Malibu Sunset with a maraschino cherry or two, and a fresh pineapple or orange slice for that extra touch of tropical flair. Serve with a straw, sip, and be transported to the islands!
Pro Tips for Making Malibu Sunset
- Chill Your Glass: Pop your serving glass in the freezer for a few minutes before building your drink—the frosty finish will keep your Malibu Sunset cool for longer and minimize dilution.
- Grenadine Pouring Trick: To maximize the layered look, pour the grenadine very slowly over the back of a spoon so it gently floats to the bottom without mixing.
- Juice Blend Matters: Look for a high-quality, 100% juice blend for a richer, fruitier flavor; if you’re feeling creative, make your own blend with fresh-squeezed pineapple and orange juice.
- Don’t Over-Stir: Stir gently just to combine the Malibu and juice, but after the grenadine goes in, let the ombré “sunset” effect happen naturally—no need to mix further!
How to Serve Malibu Sunset
Garnishes
The ultimate Malibu Sunset deserves equally eye-catching garnishes! Maraschino cherries, pineapple wedges, and orange slices aren’t just decorative—they amp up the fruitiness. If you want a little extra wow factor, try a cocktail umbrella or even a twist of lime for fun contrast.
Side Dishes
This cocktail pairs wonderfully with anything light and summery—think coconut shrimp, fresh fruit skewers, or a simple cheese platter. For a party, serve with chips and pineapple salsa, or pass around mini sliders for a savory bite between sips of Malibu Sunset.
Creative Ways to Present
To really show off that sunset effect, use clear highball or hurricane glasses and be generous with the ice and garnishes. For parties, you can create a DIY Malibu Sunset “station” with different fruit garnishes so everyone can make their drink their own. Or, pre-make a tray of drinks and line up the glasses for a stunning sunset-inspired centerpiece!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because the Malibu Sunset is at its best freshly made, leftovers are rare! If you do have extra (especially after a party), just strain out any melted ice, cover, and refrigerate. Serve over fresh ice when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Freezing
While you can’t freeze a Malibu Sunset as-is, you can prep and freeze the juice blend and rum (without grenadine) in advance for quick mixing or use them to make boozy popsicles—just stir in the grenadine before serving for the iconic look!
Reheating
Reheating isn’t required for a cocktail like this, but if your drink has been refrigerated, simply pour it over plenty of fresh ice and garnish again to refresh those island vibes. Stir gently to restore the color layers if needed.
FAQs
-
Can I make a Malibu Sunset without alcohol?
Absolutely! For a non-alcoholic “mocktail” version, swap out the Malibu rum for coconut water or use a splash of coconut extract mixed with more juice. Don’t forget the grenadine and garnishes for that signature look and flavor.
-
What’s the best glass to use for a Malibu Sunset?
I love using a tall highball or hurricane glass—the kind you see in tiki bars—as the clear sides really showcase the pretty gradient. But honestly, any sturdy glass will work in a pinch, just make sure it’s clear to admire those colors!
-
Can I make a Malibu Sunset as a pitcher for a crowd?
You sure can! Mix the juice blend and Malibu in a pitcher and chill, then pour over ice-filled glasses and drizzle grenadine into each glass individually to achieve that custom ombré effect for every guest.
-
Is there a substitute for grenadine?
If you don’t have grenadine, you can use a splash of cherry syrup, pomegranate syrup, or even raspberry syrup. Just note it may alter the flavor slightly, but you’ll still achieve a lovely layered look and sweetness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving laid-back beach vibes—no plane ticket required—the Malibu Sunset is your passport to paradise. With its lush tropical flavor and glorious colors, this cocktail is pure sunshine in a glass. I hope you’ll try it soon and let your evenings glow a little brighter. Cheers, friend!
Print
Malibu Sunset Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: None
Description
Malibu Sunset is a tropical cocktail that combines the flavors of coconut rum, pineapple-orange juice, and grenadine for a sweet and colorful drink. Perfect for sipping on a warm day or any time you want to feel like you’re on vacation.
Ingredients
Ice Cubes
3 to 4 ounces Pineapple-Orange Juice (blend)
2 ounces Malibu Coconut Rum
Grenadine, for drizzling
Maraschino Cherries, for garnishing
Pineapple and/or Orange Slices, for garnishing
Instructions
- Add ice to a glass.
- Pour in the pineapple-orange juice and Malibu Coconut Rum.
- Drizzle grenadine into the glass.
- Garnish with cherries, pineapple, and/or orange slices.
- Serve immediately.
Add a handful of ice cubes to a glass to chill the drink.
Measure and pour the juice and rum into the glass. Stir gently to combine.
Slowly drizzle grenadine over the drink; it will sink to the bottom, creating a sunset effect.
Add maraschino cherries and slices of pineapple and/or orange to the glass for a decorative touch.
Enjoy your refreshing Malibu Sunset right away!
Notes
- Drink is intended for those of legal drinking age. Please enjoy responsibly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink
- Calories: Approx. 200 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 20g
- Sodium: Approx. 10mg
- Fat: Approx. 0g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 25g
- Fiber: Approx. 0g
- Protein: Approx. 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
