Pineapple Orange Vodka Smash Cocktail

This pineapple orange vodka smash cocktail is light and refreshing, perfect for summer. Fresh orange juice, pineapple simple syrup, vodka, club soda, and fresh mint make up this easy cocktail. Pineapple simple syrup is made with fresh pineapple rinds, no waste! Serve over crushed ice with a fresh orange slices and extra fresh mint for a sip of sunshine.

This refreshing cocktail reminds me of a pina colada or Bahama mama.

Highlights of this pineapple cocktail:

• Sweet pineapple simple syrup
• Tart orange juice
• Refreshing club soda
• Fresh orange slice
• Mint adds a nice touch
• Easy to make in a cocktail shaker
• Simple syrup made with pineapple rinds and core

If you like this tropical cocktail, you’ll love…

Simple Jalapeño Paloma

Simple Gin Moscow Mule Recipe

Cinnamon Pear Gin Fizz

Pineapple simple syrup made with the pineapple juice, core, and rinds. Adds the perfect hint of sweetness.

Grocery List:

• Vodka
• Oranges & fresh orange juice
• Pineapple, whole
• Club soda or tonic (could substitute a carbonated orange soda)
• Granulated sugar
• Fresh Mint
• Meyer lemon for garnish, optional

Tools I used for this recipe:

• Cocktail Shaker – A classic tool and perfect addition to your bar cart. If you don’t have a cocktail shaker – use a mason jar with a lid.
• Muddler – Another must have bar cart tool, perfect for smashing fresh herbs and fruits into a cocktail.
• Weck Glass Jars – I love these jars for storing ingredients, for muddling, and for drinking out of! Very multi-functional.

Instructions for this tropical cocktail at home:

For the Pineapple Simple Syrup:

• In a saucepan combine the sugar, water, and pineapple chunks, core, and rind.
• Heat over medium-high heat until the sugar is dissolved. Once the mixture starts to bubble reduce heat to medium-low and allow to simmer for 25-30 minutes. The pineapple core and rinds should start to break down. Once the mixture has thickened, remove from heat and allow to cool.
• Strain through a mess strainer, removing any large pieces of pineapple. Transfer into a container and set aside, any unused simple syrup will keep in the fridge for up to month.

For the pineapple orange vodka smash:

• In a cocktail shaker combine fresh orange juice, simple syrup, and fresh mint, muddle. Top with vodka and ice. Shake well to combine.
• Fill a glass with ice, pour the shaken vodka mixture into the glass. Top with club soda and fresh lime. Enjoy immediately.