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Imagine the classic charm of an Old Fashioned, reinvented for a tropical escape. The Tiki Old Fashioned marries the depth of aged rum with smoky bitters and the rich sweetness of demerara syrup, elevated by a subtle touch of pineapple.
This cocktail is a sophisticated fusion of tradition and island spirit—perfect for those evenings when you crave something both familiar and delightfully exotic.
Why This Drink Rocks
- Tropical Elegance: Aged rum and demerara syrup deliver a deep, robust flavor, while pineapple adds a refreshing tropical twist.
- Smoky-Sweet Balance: The bitters provide a smoky undertone that perfectly complements the sweetness for a nuanced sip.
- Modern Classic: A creative spin on a timeless cocktail that blends heritage with island-inspired innovation.
Tiki Old Fashioned
A bold and citrusy tiki classic featuring light rum, brandy, orange, and lemon juices, balanced with orgeat syrup for a smooth, nutty finish—served in a communal bowl for sharing.
Ingredients
- 2 oz light rum
- 1 oz brandy
- 2 oz fresh-squeezed orange juice
- 1 oz fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- 0.5 oz orgeat syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice (for communal bowl and mixing)
- Garnish: Orange slices, cherries, and mint sprigs
Instructions
- Prepare the Communal Bowl: Fill a large tiki or scorpion bowl with ice.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the light rum, brandy, orange juice, lemon juice, and orgeat syrup with ice.
- Shake or Stir: Shake or stir vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
- Pour and Share: Strain the mixture into the prepared communal bowl over the ice.
- Garnish: Decorate with orange slices, cherries, and mint sprigs to enhance the tropical vibe.
Notes
- Orgeat Syrup: This almond-based syrup adds a distinctive nutty sweetness. Adjust the amount to achieve your desired balance.
- Communal Vibe: While traditionally served in a large bowl for sharing, you can also serve it in individual glasses if preferred.
- Customization: Feel free to tweak the citrus ratios for a more tart or sweeter profile to suit your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the pineapple juice?
The pineapple juice adds a unique tropical touch. If unavailable, a small amount of another citrus juice can be used, but the flavor will change.
What if I don’t have demerara syrup?
You can use simple syrup, but demerara syrup brings a richer and more nuanced sweetness.
How important is the type of rum?
Aged rum is essential for its depth and complexity. Its smoky, rich flavor is what sets this cocktail apart from a traditional Old Fashioned.
Wrapping it up
The Tiki Old Fashioned is a masterful blend of tradition and tropical flair. Its robust aged rum, smoky bitters, and a hint of pineapple sweetness create a cocktail that’s both familiar and refreshingly exotic.
Perfect for savoring on a quiet evening or impressing guests at a festive gathering—cheers to a taste of the tropics in every sip!
