Fruity and with a hint of spice, this vibrant tiki cocktail is a mix of grapefruit, pineapple, grenadine, and a splash of cinnamon. And with three types of rum, it packs quite a punch!

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We are getting dangerously close to Halloween and what better way to celebrate than with a Zombie Cocktail! If you’ve ever ordered a Zombie at a bar or restaurant, then you know they come with a disclaimer and an order limit: caution these are STRONG! But oh so tasty! Tart, and sweet, and a little spicy - this has become one of my favorite drinks to mix up at home.

Zombie Cocktail Ingredients

Rum - There are three types of rum in this cocktail. Yep that’s right! You would never know because this drink has such a variety of flavors happening at once. Choose your favorite rum! I used Bacardi for all three: light, gold, and black because I think they blend well together.

Fruit Juices - There are a few different ways to make this drink. The original ingredients, written by Donn Beach, include grapefruit mixed with cinnamon, so I chose to honor that because, well, it’s the best in my opinion. If you don’t like pineapple or grapefruit, you can easily substitute by finding a recipe that doesn’t include them, as there are many out there.

Cinnamon - The cinnamon is key. It adds complexity and contrast to the sweetness of the fruit juices and rum. The easiest way to add cinnamon is to make a cinnamon infused simple syrup - just boil 1 part sugar and 1 part water together until sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and add about 8 cinnamon sticks to every 1 cup and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain and voila!

What kind of glass can I serve a Zombie Cocktail in?

I love a classic tiki style mug, however a fishbowl, collins or highball glass will do! I chose a chalice, seen here, and though it may not be a traditional way to serve them, it sure did look good (and taste good too)!

How to make a Zombie Cocktail

Ingredients

• 1 ounce Cinnamon Simple Syrup

• 1 ounce Grapefruit Juice

• 1 ounce Pineapple Juice

• 1/4 ounce Grenadine (just a splash)

• 1 ounce Light Rum

• 1 ounce Gold Rum

• 1 ounce Black Rum

• 1 ounce Lime Juice

• 1 dash of Bitters

• Mint Sprig for Garnish

Directions

Step One - Add cinnamon simple syrup, grapefruit juice, pineapple juice, grenadine, light rum, gold rum, black rum, and lime juice into a shaker. Add in a large cube of ice and pop the lid on tight. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.

Step Two - Fill a glass or cup with crushed ice. Pour the mixture over the ice. Add a dash of bitters and garnish with a mint sprig (…or a spider!).

Love rum? You might like these cocktail recipes as well - Mai Tai Recipe, Mint Mojito Recipe.

Looking for more Halloween inspired cocktails? Try Jeepers Creepers Punch.