There’s nothing quite like the ambiance of a beachside bonfire—the sound of waves crashing, the warmth of the flames, and the crisp night air mingling with the scent of toasted marshmallows. The Beachside Bonfire Cocktail captures this cozy yet adventurous atmosphere in a glass. This drink is a smoky, slightly sweet, and boozy concoction that combines tropical flavors with a hint of campfire nostalgia. Whether you’re sipping this by an actual bonfire or recreating the experience from your home bar, this cocktail is sure to warm you from the inside out.
Inspired by the cozy, carefree essence of a beach bonfire, this cocktail is a fusion of smoky, caramelized, and tropical flavors. The base of this drink typically includes dark rum or mezcal, which adds a natural smokiness reminiscent of burning wood. To complement that deep flavor, we add pineapple juice for a fruity sweetness, coconut cream for richness, and a touch of maple syrup or honey for a warm, caramel-like depth. Some versions even feature a hint of cinnamon or toasted marshmallow for extra campfire vibes.
This cocktail is perfect for summer gatherings, late-night drinks, or simply unwinding with a flavorful escape. With a balance of warm, toasty, and tropical elements, it’s a drink that brings together the best of both worlds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Smoky & Tropical Fusion – The Beachside Bonfire Cocktail is the perfect blend of smoky warmth and tropical sweetness, creating a drink that feels both comforting and exotic. The caramel notes of dark rum provide a rich depth, while the velvety coconut cream and tangy pineapple juice balance it with a smooth, tropical essence. The result is a multi-layered flavor experience—one that transports you to a tropical beach at sunset, where the salty breeze meets the warmth of a crackling bonfire.
Perfect for Any Season – While the name may bring to mind images of summer nights on the beach, this cocktail isn’t just for warm weather. Its toasty, smoky undertones make it just as fitting for autumn and winter. Whether you’re sipping it under the stars at a beach gathering, wrapped in a blanket by a fall bonfire, or enjoying a fireside drink in the winter months, this cocktail has a versatile charm that makes it suitable year-round. No matter the season, it delivers a unique combination of warmth and refreshment, ensuring it never feels out of place.
Easy to Customize – One of the best things about this cocktail is how adaptable it is. You can tweak the level of smokiness by experimenting with different spirits—dark rum brings caramelized depth, aged rum enhances the richness, and mezcal introduces an intense, wood-smoked essence. If you prefer an extra toasty flavor, try adding a touch of smoked sea salt, torching a cinnamon stick, or incorporating a hint of spiced syrup. Want a sweeter, more dessert-like variation? A toasted marshmallow garnish or a drizzle of caramel can elevate this drink to a whole new level of indulgence.
Great for Gatherings – This cocktail is made for social occasions. Whether you’re hosting a beach bonfire, a backyard barbecue, or even a cozy holiday party, the Beachside Bonfire Cocktail sets the perfect mood. The combination of tropical flavors and smoky depth makes it a drink that sparks conversation and brings people together. It’s also easy to scale up—simply mix a larger batch and serve in pitchers or tiki-style glasses for a fun, crowd-pleasing presentation.
Aesthetic Appeal – Let’s not forget the visual magic of this drink. The deep golden hue of the rum mixed with the creamy coconut and bright pineapple creates a mesmerizing layered effect. Add a garnish of toasted marshmallow, a charred citrus slice, or a cinnamon stick, and you have a cocktail that looks just as good as it tastes. Whether you’re capturing the moment for social media or simply enjoying the artistry of a well-crafted drink, the Beachside Bonfire Cocktail is Instagram-worthy and unforgettable.
If you’re looking for a cocktail that is bold, flavorful, visually stunning, and easy to personalize, this recipe is the perfect choice. Try making it today and experience the rich blend of smoky warmth and tropical bliss in every sip!
Ingredients
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2 oz dark rum (or mezcal for a smokier kick)
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1 oz pineapple juice
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½ oz coconut cream
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½ oz maple syrup (or honey)
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¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
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A few drops of liquid smoke (optional, for enhanced smokiness)
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Ice cubes
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Garnish: Toasted marshmallow, cinnamon stick, or a pineapple wedge
Preparation
Step 1: In a cocktail shaker, add dark rum (or mezcal), pineapple juice, coconut cream, maple syrup, and cinnamon. If you want an extra smoky effect, add a few drops of liquid smoke.
Step 2: Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, ensuring the ingredients are well combined and chilled.
Step 3: Strain the mixture into a lowball glass filled with fresh ice or serve it neat in a chilled rocks glass for a stronger flavor.
Step 4: Garnish with a toasted marshmallow on a cocktail pick, a cinnamon stick, or a pineapple wedge to enhance both the presentation and the aroma.
Step 5: If desired, lightly torch the marshmallow before serving for an authentic campfire feel. Sip, savor, and enjoy the warmth of this flavorful cocktail.
Variation
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Spiced Beach Bonfire: Add a dash of spiced rum instead of dark rum for an extra layer of warmth.
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Frozen Version: Blend all the ingredients with ice to create a frozen slushie-style drink for hot summer days.
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Chocolate-Infused: Add a small drizzle of chocolate syrup to mimic the taste of s’mores with a boozy twist.
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Coffee Kick: Swap the maple syrup for coffee liqueur to give this drink an espresso martini-inspired edge.
Cooking Note
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If using mezcal, start with a small amount and adjust to taste, as its smokiness can be quite strong.
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Toasting the marshmallow beforehand gives it an authentic campfire aroma that enhances the overall experience.
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Shake the cocktail thoroughly to fully blend the coconut cream and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve this cocktail in a rocks glass with a large ice cube for slow dilution and a sophisticated look.
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For a party-friendly option, prepare a batch of Beachside Bonfire Cocktails in a pitcher and serve over ice.
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Pair with grilled seafood, barbecue dishes, or toasted s’mores for a perfect flavor combination.
Tips
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Use fresh pineapple juice instead of canned for a more vibrant, tangy flavor.
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If you don’t have liquid smoke, lightly torch a cinnamon stick and swirl it in the drink for a similar effect.
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Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup to suit your preference.
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If making for a crowd, pre-mix the base ingredients and shake with ice before serving.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 210
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Protein: 1g
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Sodium: 12mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cocktail without alcohol?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute dark rum with non-alcoholic dark rum, which mimics the deep, rich flavor of traditional rum without the alcohol content. Alternatively, you can mix apple cider with smoked tea to create a complex, slightly smoky base that still provides depth and warmth. The apple cider adds natural sweetness, while the smoked tea gives it an earthy, bonfire-like essence, making it a great option for those who want to enjoy the cocktail’s flavors without the booze.
Q: How can I increase the smokiness?
A: If you love that deep, campfire-inspired smokiness, there are several ways to enhance it. One option is to swap out dark rum for mezcal, a spirit known for its bold, smoky notes derived from fire-roasted agave. You can also add a drop or two of liquid smoke to the cocktail, but be careful not to overdo it—just a little bit can go a long way in intensifying the smoky aroma. Another fun technique is to torch a cinnamon stick or marshmallow over the drink just before serving. The cinnamon stick releases a warm, fragrant smoke that blends beautifully with the drink’s flavors, while a toasted marshmallow adds a subtle caramelized sweetness that enhances the bonfire vibe.
Q: What if I don’t have coconut cream?
A: No coconut cream? No problem! You can substitute it with full-fat coconut milk, which will still provide a rich, creamy texture, though it may be slightly thinner than using coconut cream. If you want to thicken it up, you can blend the coconut milk with a little bit of coconut oil or chill it in the fridge beforehand so that the cream naturally separates and can be scooped out for a thicker consistency. Another alternative is heavy cream with a dash of coconut extract, which will mimic the tropical coconut flavor while keeping the drink smooth and luscious.
Q: Can I make this cocktail in advance?
A: While this cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly prepare parts of it ahead of time to make serving easier. Simply mix all the liquid ingredients together, excluding the ice, and store the mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just shake the mixture with ice to chill and aerate it before pouring it into your glass. This way, you maintain the cocktail’s smooth, refreshing texture while still cutting down on last-minute prep. If you’re serving a crowd, you can even pre-batch a large pitcher of the cocktail and shake individual servings with ice when needed.
Q: What’s the best garnish for a Beachside Bonfire Cocktail?
A: A great garnish can take this cocktail to the next level, enhancing both its visual appeal and flavor. A toasted marshmallow on a skewer is a fun and delicious way to emphasize the bonfire theme, giving the drink a sweet, caramelized aroma with each sip. For a more sophisticated touch, try adding a charred orange slice—simply torch or grill an orange round until slightly blackened, then place it on the rim of the glass to add a smoky citrus fragrance. A cinnamon stick not only looks elegant but also infuses the cocktail with warm spice as it sits in the drink. If you want to highlight the tropical elements, a pineapple wedge or a coconut flake rim will add a fresh and exotic twist. Experiment with different garnishes to find your perfect finishing touch!
Conclusion
The Beachside Bonfire Cocktail is more than just a drink—it’s an experience that perfectly blends tropical indulgence with the cozy warmth of a crackling fire. Every sip offers a delightful contrast of flavors, from the deep caramelized richness of dark rum to the velvety smoothness of coconut cream, all balanced by the bright, fruity burst of pineapple. The subtle smokiness woven throughout this cocktail evokes the nostalgic comfort of sitting around a bonfire on a breezy beach night, making it a truly unique and memorable drink.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a nightcap after a long summer day, serving it at a gathering with friends, or simply indulging in a special treat for yourself, this cocktail is guaranteed to be a showstopper. It’s perfect for those who appreciate bold, layered flavors, and it offers endless opportunities for customization, from different rums to a variety of garnishes. Try adding a toasted marshmallow for extra sweetness, a cinnamon stick for spice, or even a hint of smoked sea salt for a deeper, richer taste.
So why not bring the magic of a Beachside Bonfire Cocktail to your next occasion? Whether you’re sipping it under the stars, watching the waves roll in, or dreaming of your next vacation, this drink will transport you to a blissful, tropical escape with every sip. Try making it today and experience the perfect fusion of island paradise and fireside comfort in a single glass!
Print
Beachside Bonfire Cocktail
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
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2 oz dark rum (or mezcal for a smokier kick)
-
1 oz pineapple juice
-
½ oz coconut cream
-
½ oz maple syrup (or honey)
-
¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
-
A few drops of liquid smoke (optional, for enhanced smokiness)
-
Ice cubes
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Garnish: Toasted marshmallow, cinnamon stick, or a pineapple wedge
Instructions
Step 1: In a cocktail shaker, add dark rum (or mezcal), pineapple juice, coconut cream, maple syrup, and cinnamon. If you want an extra smoky effect, add a few drops of liquid smoke.
Step 2: Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, ensuring the ingredients are well combined and chilled.
Step 3: Strain the mixture into a lowball glass filled with fresh ice or serve it neat in a chilled rocks glass for a stronger flavor.
Step 4: Garnish with a toasted marshmallow on a cocktail pick, a cinnamon stick, or a pineapple wedge to enhance both the presentation and the aroma.
Step 5: If desired, lightly torch the marshmallow before serving for an authentic campfire feel. Sip, savor, and enjoy the warmth of this flavorful cocktail.
Notes
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If using mezcal, start with a small amount and adjust to taste, as its smokiness can be quite strong.
-
Toasting the marshmallow beforehand gives it an authentic campfire aroma that enhances the overall experience.
-
Shake the cocktail thoroughly to fully blend the coconut cream and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 210
- Sodium: 12mg
- Protein: 1g