The Zombie is a legendary Tiki cocktail known for its intense rum flavor and ability to induce a “zombie-like” state. This recipe blends light and dark Jamaican rums with apricot brandy for a deep, spiced base, balanced by the tartness of fresh lime and orange juice. Sweet pineapple juice and optional passion fruit syrup add tropical brightness and body. Served over crushed ice and strained for a smooth texture, it is topped with a dangerous float of 151-proof rum. Garnished with mint and cherries, this drink is best enjoyed slowly on a hot day or during a festive Tiki-themed gathering.
Zombie
Description
The Zombie is a legendary Tiki cocktail known for its intense rum flavor and ability to induce a "zombie-like" state. This recipe blends light and dark Jamaican rums with apricot brandy for a deep, spiced base, balanced by the tartness of fresh lime and orange juice. Sweet pineapple juice and optional passion fruit syrup add tropical brightness and body. Served over crushed ice and strained for a smooth texture, it is topped with a dangerous float of 151-proof rum. Garnished with mint and cherries, this drink is best enjoyed slowly on a hot day or during a festive Tiki-themed gathering.Ingredients
Directions
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Add pineapple juice, lime juice, orange juice, powdered sugar, passion fruit syrup (if using), apricot brandy, light rum, and Jamaican rum to a blender along with 1/2 cup of crushed ice.
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Blend on low speed until smooth and well-combined, about 30-45 seconds.
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Strain the mixture into a frosted highball glass filled with fresh crushed ice.
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Slowly float the 151-proof rum on top of the drink using a bar spoon or the back of a spoon.
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Dip a sprig of fresh mint into powdered sugar and place it on the rim or inside the glass.
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Garnish with a stick of pineapple and one green and one red cherry.
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Serve immediately with tall straws.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 256.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 2.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 24.0g8%
- Dietary Fiber 0.7g3%
- Sugars 12.7g
- Protein 0.2g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Safety Warning: 151-proof rum is highly flammable and potent. Handle with care and do not light the drink on fire unless you are in a controlled environment and know what you are doing. The float adds significant alcohol content; drink responsibly.
Ice: Crushed ice is essential for the texture of a Zombie. If you do not have a crusher, you can put ice cubes in a clean kitchen towel and smash them with a mallet or rolling pin.
Substitutions: If 151-proof rum is unavailable, you can use a standard overproof rum (755 proof) for a safer float, though it may sink slightly faster. Passion fruit syrup can be omitted if unavailable, though it adds authentic tropical acidity.
Storage: This cocktail is best served fresh. Do not store blended cocktails with ice as they will water down and lose their texture.
