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Pineapple Express Drink recipe

Cocktail glass

Quench your thirst with our Pineapple Express drink recipe! This refreshing cocktail is made with 6oz of juicy pineapple juice, a shot of energy soda, and a kick of Everclear alcohol. Simply mix in a shaker to chill, and enjoy a tropical escape in every sip. Perfect for beginner bartenders looking for a quick and easy recipe to impress their guests.


Pineapple Express Ingredients

Pineapple Express Equipment

  • shaker - makes it easy to mixture and chill ingredients

Pineapple Express Recipe

  1. fill a shaker half full with ice cubes so you can properly chill ingredients
  2. shake till perfectly chilled
  3. prepare glass

Pineapple Express: The Ultimate Summer Drink

As a professional bartender, I have seen all kinds of drinks come and go, but one that has stood the test of time is the Pineapple Express. It's a refreshing and energizing cocktail that's perfect for summer. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about this popular drink, including its history, ingredients, variations, and common mistakes to avoid.

Popularity

The Pineapple Express is a relatively new cocktail that has gained popularity in recent years. It's believed to have originated in the United States, but its exact history is unclear. What we do know is that it's famous for its tropical flavor and energizing properties. The drink is often associated with beach bars and tiki lounges, making it a popular choice for vacationers and party-goers.

In terms of appearance, the Pineapple Express is a bright yellow color that's reminiscent of sunshine and happiness. It's typically served in a tall glass with ice and garnished with a slice of pineapple or a cherry. The drink's refreshing taste and eye-catching presentation make it a hit with customers of all ages.

Ingredient Roles

The Pineapple Express is a simple cocktail that only requires three ingredients: pineapple juice, energy soda, and Everclear alcohol. Let's take a closer look at the role each ingredient plays in the drink:

  • Pineapple Juice: This is the main ingredient in the Pineapple Express and gives it its signature tropical flavor. Pineapple juice is naturally sweet and has a tangy taste that pairs well with the other ingredients.
  • Energy Soda: Energy soda is added to the drink to give it a boost of caffeine and other stimulants. This ingredient is what makes the Pineapple Express an energizing cocktail.
  • Everclear Alcohol: Everclear is a high-proof grain alcohol that's added to the drink to increase its alcohol content. It's a popular choice among bartenders because it doesn't have a strong taste and can be mixed with other ingredients without overpowering them.

How to Garnish

Garnishing is an important part of making any cocktail, and the Pineapple Express is no exception. Here's how to garnish this drink:

  1. Slice a piece of fresh pineapple and cut it into a wedge shape.
  2. Cut a small slit in the middle of the pineapple wedge and slide it onto the rim of the glass.
  3. If desired, add a maraschino cherry to the top of the pineapple wedge.

The garnish adds an extra touch of tropical flair to the drink and makes it even more visually appealing.

Variations

As with any popular cocktail, there are many variations of the Pineapple Express. Here are a few:

  • Virgin/Mocktail Version: To make a non-alcoholic version of the Pineapple Express, simply omit the Everclear alcohol and replace it with more pineapple juice or energy soda.
  • Gluten-Free Version: The Pineapple Express is naturally gluten-free, but if you want to make sure all the ingredients are safe, use a gluten-free energy soda brand such as Red Bull or Monster.
  • Vegan Version: The Pineapple Express is already vegan, but if you want to make sure all the ingredients are cruelty-free, use a vegan energy soda brand such as Bang or Reign.
  • Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly Pineapple Express, replace the energy soda with a sugar-free alternative such as Zevia or Coke Zero.
  • Low-Calorie Version: To make a lower-calorie version of the Pineapple Express, replace the Everclear alcohol with a flavored vodka that has fewer calories, such as Smirnoff Sorbet Light.

Common Mistakes When Making

Despite being a simple cocktail, there are still common mistakes that can be made when making the Pineapple Express. Here are a few to avoid:

  • Using too much Everclear: Everclear is a high-proof alcohol, so it's important to use it sparingly. Using too much can overpower the other ingredients and make the drink too strong.
  • Not shaking the ingredients enough: The Pineapple Express should be shaken well to ensure all the ingredients are mixed together properly. If the drink is not shaken enough, it can be unevenly mixed and not taste as good.
  • Not using fresh pineapple: Fresh pineapple is key to making the Pineapple Express taste its best. Using canned pineapple or pineapple juice can result in a less flavorful drink.
  • Using the wrong energy drink: Not all energy drinks are created equal, and using the wrong one can result in a drink that doesn't taste right. Stick with reputable brands such as Red Bull or Monster for the best results.

In conclusion, the Pineapple Express is a refreshing and energizing cocktail that's perfect for summer. Whether you're enjoying it at the beach or in your backyard, this drink is sure to please. By following these tips, you can make the perfect Pineapple Express every time.

If you are going to order Pineapple Express in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Pineapple Express can be served with different ingredients in different places.