Painkiller Cocktail Drink

Painkiller Cocktail

A shot of Gavin Wrigley looking to the camera in a dimly lit room
Written by Gavin Wrigley
Andrea
Tested by
Andrea Ottaiano

Want to make a tropical cocktail? This Painkiller recipe has all the ingredients you need for a standout drink.

Best Painkiller Cocktail Recipe

Here's our simple Painkiller recipe! With a blend of dark rum, tangy pineapple juice, and creamy coconut, this drink is your go-to for instant relaxation.

Prep time:

1 minute

Mixing time:

1 minute

Servings:

1

Calories:

297 kl

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Dark Rum
  • 4 oz pineapple juice
  • 1 oz orange juice
  • 1 oz coconut cream
  • Ice cubes
  • Nutmeg, for garnish, optional
  • Pineapple slice or grated nutmeg, for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Highball Glass or Tiki Mug
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Shaker
  • Strainer

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your highball glass or tiki mug with ice cubes.
  • Combine Ingredients: In the shaker, add 1 oz coconut cream, 1 oz orange juice, 4 oz pineapple juice, and 2 oz Dark Rum.
  • Shake Well: Ice up your shaker and shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
  • Strain: Replace the ice in your highball glass or tiki and strain the mixture into it.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg on top or add a pineapple slice or cherry for garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Dark Rum: Spiced rum works well if you don't have dark rum. I've even used white rum, but it lacks dark rum's rich, molasses-like flavor.
  • Pineapple Juice: Mango juice can be a good alternative, although it changes the tropical profile of the drink.
  • Orange Juice: You can use grapefruit juice for a slightly more tart flavor.
  • Coconut Cream: Coconut milk or a coconut-flavored non-dairy creamer can work if you're in a pinch.

Making a Pitcher of Painkiller:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 16 oz of dark rum, 32 oz of pineapple juice, 8 oz of orange juice, and 8 oz of coconut cream.
  • Mix: Combine all the ingredients in a large pitcher and stir well.
  • Serve: Pour the mixture into ice-filled highball glasses or tiki mugs, garnish as desired, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Dark Rum Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic rum alternative or even a mix of molasses and water to mimic the dark rum flavor.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes instead of the regular ingredients, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic Painkiller.

Making it Vegan:

  • Coconut Cream: Ensure that the coconut cream you're using is vegan. Some brands add dairy or other animal-derived stabilizers.
  • Garnish: Skip the traditional garnish of a cherry if it's not vegan. Many maraschino cherries contain non-vegan food coloring or preservatives. Use a pineapple slice instead.

Nutrition Facts

Calories
297
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
10
g
15
%
Saturated Fat
 
9
g
56
%
Sodium
 
4
mg
0
%
Carbohydrates
 
19
g
6
%
Fiber
 
1
g
4
%
Sugar
 
14
g
16
%
Potassium
 
297
mg
8
%
Protein
 
2
g
4
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0.2
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
0.4
g
Vitamin A
 
62
IU
1
%
Vitamin C
 
26
mg
32
%
Calcium
 
21
mg
2
%
Iron
 
1
mg
6
%

 

Painkiller Cocktail Drink

Best Painkiller Cocktail Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
Jump to Video
Here's our simple Painkiller recipe! With a blend of dark rum, tangy pineapple juice, and creamy coconut, this drink is your go-to for instant relaxation.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 297

Ingredients
 

  • 2 oz Dark Rum
  • 4 oz pineapple juice
  • 1 oz orange juice
  • 1 oz coconut cream
  • Ice cubes
  • Nutmeg - for garnish, optional
  • Pineapple slice or grated nutmeg - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Highball Glass or Tiki Mug
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Shaker
  • Strainer

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your highball glass or tiki mug with ice cubes.
  • Combine Ingredients: In the shaker, add 1 oz coconut cream, 1 oz orange juice, 4 oz pineapple juice, and 2 oz Dark Rum.
  • Shake Well: Ice up your shaker and shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
  • Strain: Replace the ice in your highball glass or tiki and strain the mixture into it.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg on top or add a pineapple slice or cherry for garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Dark Rum: Spiced rum works well if you don't have dark rum. I've even used white rum, but it lacks dark rum's rich, molasses-like flavor.
  • Pineapple Juice: Mango juice can be a good alternative, although it changes the tropical profile of the drink.
  • Orange Juice: You can use grapefruit juice for a slightly more tart flavor.
  • Coconut Cream: Coconut milk or a coconut-flavored non-dairy creamer can work if you're in a pinch.

Making a Pitcher of Painkiller:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 16 oz of dark rum, 32 oz of pineapple juice, 8 oz of orange juice, and 8 oz of coconut cream.
  • Mix: Combine all the ingredients in a large pitcher and stir well.
  • Serve: Pour the mixture into ice-filled highball glasses or tiki mugs, garnish as desired, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Dark Rum Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic rum alternative or even a mix of molasses and water to mimic the dark rum flavor.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes instead of the regular ingredients, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic Painkiller.

Making it Vegan:

  • Coconut Cream: Ensure that the coconut cream you're using is vegan. Some brands add dairy or other animal-derived stabilizers.
  • Garnish: Skip the traditional garnish of a cherry if it's not vegan. Many maraschino cherries contain non-vegan food coloring or preservatives. Use a pineapple slice instead.

 

What is a Classic Painkiller Drink?

Painkiller is a tropical cocktail featuring dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and coconut cream. Originating from the British Virgin Islands, this drink has become a staple in beachside bars and tropical resorts. While the Painkiller might sound like a heavy hitter, it’s a smooth and balanced cocktail that’s easy to enjoy. You don’t need to be a seasoned bartender to appreciate its flavors; this classic Painkiller recipe is straightforward yet delivers a satisfying and well-rounded taste. 

A side shot of a Painkiller cocktail in a highball glass on a wooden coaster placed on a white marmol table, surrounded by two half oranges and a jigger

What is a Painkiller Cocktail made of – The ingredients

To get ready to make your Painkiller Cocktail, gather together these ingredients:

  • Dark Rum: Provides the rich, molasses-like base that anchors the cocktail.
  • Pineapple Juice: Adds tropical sweetness and a fruity layer.
  • Orange Juice: Introduces a citrusy tang to balance the sweetness.
  • Coconut Cream: Gives the drink its creamy texture and coconut flavor.
  • Ice Cubes: Chill the ingredients to make the drink refreshing.
  • Nutmeg: Optional garnish that adds a hint of spice.
  • Pineapple Slice or Cherry: Optional garnish for visual appeal and a burst of fruitiness.

Dark Rum, Pineapple juice, Orange juice and coconut cream laid out on a white bar table

How do you make a Painkiller Cocktail?

Join us in making a great Painkiller Cocktail by following our simple guide:

1
<p>Fill your highball glass or tiki mug with ice cubes to prepare it for the cocktail.</p>

Fill your highball glass or tiki mug with ice cubes to prepare it for the cocktail.

2
<p>Pour the coconut cream into the shaker.</p>

Pour the coconut cream into the shaker.

3
<p>Add the orange juice to the shaker.</p>

Add the orange juice to the shaker.

4
<p>Add the pineapple juice to the shaker.</p>

Add the pineapple juice to the shaker.

5
<p>Pour the dark rum into the shaker.</p>

Pour the dark rum into the shaker.

6
<p>Add ice cubes and shake the mixture vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds to blend all the ingredients well.</p>

Add ice cubes and shake the mixture vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds to blend all the ingredients well.

7
<p>Strain the shaken mixture into your prepared glass, pouring it over fresh ice.</p>

Strain the shaken mixture into your prepared glass, pouring it over fresh ice.

8
<p>Add a pineapple slice as a garnish to make the drink visually appealing.</p>

Add a pineapple slice as a garnish to make the drink visually appealing.

9
<p>Enjoy your Painkiller cocktail!</p>

Enjoy your Painkiller cocktail!

Painkiller Cocktail with Tequila

Switching out rum for tequila in a Painkiller can give the drink a Mexican twist that’s both surprising and delightful. If you’re going this route, opt for quality tequila to ensure the cocktail remains smooth and enjoyable. Brands like Patron, Don Julio, or Espolon are solid choices that offer a clean, agave-forward profile. The tequila pairs well with the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut while adding its unique kick. For a well-rounded experience, try using a reposado tequila; it offers a touch of sweetness and subtle oak notes that complement the existing ingredients nicely.

Painkiller with Malibu

Using Malibu rum in your Painkiller adds a layer of coconut flavor that amps up the tropical vibe. Malibu is a coconut-flavored liqueur with a rum base, and it’s a popular choice for many beach-inspired drinks. If you’re a fan of coconut, this swap is a no-brainer. However, remember that Malibu is generally lower in alcohol content than traditional dark rums, so that the drink will be slightly lighter. For those who want to maintain the original strength of the Painkiller while enjoying the added coconut kick, consider mixing Malibu with a higher-proof dark rum like Mount Gay or Appleton Estate. This combo gives you the best of both worlds: strong rum undertones with a burst of coconut.

Best Rum for a Painkiller Cocktail

When choosing the best rum for a Painkiller, you’ll want something that can hold its own against the strong tropical flavors of the cocktail. Dark rums like Mount Gay, Appleton Estate, or Goslings offer a rich, molasses-like depth that complements the pineapple’s sweetness and the coconut’s creaminess. These brands are well-known for their quality and complexity, making them excellent choices. If you’re looking for a specific recommendation, Mount Gay’s Eclipse variety offers a balanced profile with notes of vanilla and caramel that work exceptionally well in a Painkiller. It’s a solid pick that elevates the drink without overshadowing its tropical character.

A side shot of a Painkiller cocktail in a highball glass on a wooden coaster placed on a white marmol table surrounded by a jigger and two half oranges, and with plants on the background

Painkiller Drink Variations

Want to change up your Painkiller? We recommend you try a variation from our selection:

  • Virgin Painkiller: A delightful mix of pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut without any alcohol. The tropical flavors come alive, offering a sweet and tangy experience. The alcohol-free nature impresses me, capturing the original’s essence perfectly.
  • Frozen Painkiller: Blending the classic ingredients with ice creates a frosty and refreshing treat. Its slushy texture, ideal for warm days, combines creamy and cool sensations. I favor this for its summer-ready, icy chill.
  • Tropical Painkiller: Adding extra tropical juices like mango or passion fruit enhances the traditional mix. These fruits introduce an exotic flair, elevating the island feel. It’s like a mini vacation in a glass, full of vibrant, sunny flavors.
  • Painkiller Margarita: Marrying the Painkiller’s pineapple and coconut with the classic margarita’s lime, this hybrid stands out. The tart lime perfectly offsets the sweet tropical notes, creating an intriguing flavor mix. The tangy and sweet balance is both surprising and delightful.
  • Mango Painkiller: Infusing mango juice into the standard recipe adds a lush, velvety touch. The mango’s sweetness and the creamy coconut blend seamlessly. I enjoy this version for its smooth, fruity richness, making every sip a luxurious experience.

A Painkiller cocktail, shot from above, in a highball glass on a wooden coaster placed on a white marmol table surrounded by two half oranges and a jigger

History and Origin of the Painkiller Drink

The Painkiller cocktail has its roots in the British Virgin Islands, specifically at the Soggy Dollar Bar on the island of Jost Van Dyke. Daphne Henderson, the bar’s original owner, created the drink in the 1970s. The cocktail quickly gained popularity among sailors and tourists, who would swim to the bar from their anchored boats, arriving with “soggy dollars” in their pockets. The Painkiller became so iconic that it’s often considered the unofficial drink of the British Virgin Islands.

Pusser’s Rum, a British Navy rum brand, noticed the drink’s popularity and trademarked the name “Painkiller” in the 1980s. They even specified that an “official” Painkiller must use Pusser’s Rum. Despite this, the drink’s fame continued to spread far beyond the Caribbean, and you can now find it in bars and restaurants worldwide, often with various types of rum.

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FAQ

How many calories are in a Painkiller?
A standard Painkiller contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used.
How strong is a Painkiller in terms of ABV and proof?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) usually ranges from 35-40%, making it 70-80 proof, depending on the rum used.
What type of alcohol is used in a Painkiller?
Dark rum serves as the primary alcohol in a Painkiller.
In which type of glass is a Painkiller typically served?
A Painkiller is usually served in a highball glass or a tiki mug.
What does a Painkiller taste like?
The Painkiller offers a balanced blend of tropical sweetness, citrusy tang, and creamy coconut flavors.
What is the ratio of ingredients in a Painkiller?
The typical ratio is 2 parts dark rum, 4 parts pineapple juice, 1 part orange juice, and 1 part coconut cream.
How is the Painkiller served in terms of ice and presentation?
It's generally served over ice and can be garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg and a slice of pineapple or cherry.
Who invented the Painkiller?
Daphne Henderson, the original owner of the Soggy Dollar Bar in the British Virgin Islands, created the Painkiller in the 1970s.
Is the Painkiller trademarked?
Yes, Pusser's Rum trademarked the name "Painkiller" in the 1980s.

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