Malibu Citrus Splash Cocktail Recipe

I love mixing up simple cocktails that taste fresh and bright, and honestly, this one’s a go-to for me. The Malibu Citrus Splash blends coconut rum with citrus flavors for a light, refreshing drink that comes together in no time. You don’t need fancy gear or hard-to-find ingredients—just a few basics and you’re set.

This drink balances sweet and tangy notes without hitting you over the head with booze. It’s perfect for chilling on a warm afternoon or sharing with friends at a casual hangout.

The recipe’s straightforward. The flavors come together in a way that just feels fun and honestly pretty refreshing.

You’ll see exactly what you need, step-by-step instructions, and a simple breakdown of how it tastes once you’re done.

Malibu Citrus Splash Cocktail Recipe

Making this drink is honestly a breeze. It’s got sweet tropical flavors and a light citrus tang, which I find super satisfying.

You don’t need much—just a few basic tools and ingredients. Even if you barely ever make cocktails, you’ll be fine.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker – I always grab this to blend the juices and rum together.
• Collins glass or highball glass – I usually reach for a tall glass with plenty of room for ice.
• Measuring jigger – Helps me keep the rum and juices balanced.
• Bar spoon – I give it a quick stir before serving.
• Strainer – Keeps the pulp and extra ice out of my glass.
• Knife and cutting board – I slice up fresh fruit for garnish.
• Ice scoop or tongs – Less mess when I’m adding ice.

Having these tools ready just makes things smoother. The flavors stay balanced, and I don’t get flustered mid-mix.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Malibu coconut rum
• 2 oz pineapple juice (canned or fresh—both are good)
• 2 oz orange juice
• 1 oz lemonade
• 1 oz margarita mix
• Ice cubes (enough to fill your glass)
• Fresh orange slice (for garnish)
• Strawberry (optional, but it adds a nice pop of color)

I use canned pineapple juice when I want things to taste the same every time. Fresh juice gives a brighter kick, though, so I switch it up sometimes.

Rum and citrus together just work. The drink isn’t too sweet, and those garnishes make it look extra inviting.

Instructions

• Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
• Pour in the Malibu coconut rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, lemonade, and margarita mix.
• Shake it hard for about 10–15 seconds until it’s nice and cold.
• Strain into a Collins or highball glass filled with fresh ice.
• Give it a gentle stir with your bar spoon.
• Garnish with an orange slice and maybe a strawberry on the rim if you’re feeling fancy.

I always shake the drink well so the juices and rum really mix. Serving it over fresh ice keeps it cold and crisp.

Notes

I honestly prefer this cocktail in a Collins glass—the tall shape just works for the ice and fruit. If I only have a highball glass, I don’t stress about it.

If I want it sweeter, I’ll splash in a bit more pineapple juice. If I’m craving something tart, I up the lemonade.

Fresh fruit as a garnish isn’t just for looks; it adds a little aroma when you sip. I like to tweak the balance until it hits just right for me.

Tasting Notes

I take a first sip and immediately notice the bright citrus flavor. The orange and lemon come through with a crisp, refreshing taste that feels light on my tongue.

The Malibu rum brings in a smooth coconut note, which balances out the sharpness from the citrus. I really appreciate that the sweetness stays gentle and never overpowers the drink.

There’s a slight tart edge from the lime, and honestly, it keeps things from getting too sweet. That tangy kick makes each sip feel lively and fresh.

The finish? It’s clean and just a bit fruity. I like how the flavors hang around for a moment but don’t get heavy or cloying.

When I chill the drink with ice, it just works—even better, actually. The cold seems to sharpen those citrus flavors, making the whole cocktail extra refreshing, especially if it’s a warm day.