Malibu Princess Cocktail: A Sweet and Tropical Delight You’ll Want to Sip All Summer

Thank you so much for being here—whether you’re a seasoned cocktail lover or just looking for a new drink to brighten up your next party, I’m thrilled to share this gorgeous, sweet, and tropically inspired recipe with you. The Malibu Princess Cocktail is one of those drinks that instantly transports you to beachy bliss. It’s fruity, it’s colorful, and it’s garnished like a milkshake, making it an irresistible favorite for anyone who enjoys cocktails that are as fun to look at as they are to drink.

As the name suggests, this cocktail is fit for royalty—but with a playful, island twist. You’ve got the tropical vibes of coconut and pineapple, the cool green glow of Midori melon liqueur, and a topping that looks like it belongs on a dessert menu. Think of it as your go-to cocktail for warm-weather get-togethers, girls’ nights in, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and vibrant in a glass.

What Is the Malibu Princess Cocktail?

The Malibu Princess Cocktail is a sweet, vibrant drink with a creamy finish and a look that turns heads. At its core, it’s a blend of Malibu coconut rum, Midori melon liqueur, and either pineapple juice or a fizzy citrus soda like Sprite. What truly makes this cocktail pop, though, is the topping: a luxurious swirl of whipped cream and a bright red maraschino cherry. The glass is rimmed with pink sugar or sprinkles, turning this into a festive treat that’s part drink, part celebration.

This cocktail is reminiscent of a tropical milkshake, with a light, juicy base and creamy topping that makes every sip a little indulgent. It’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like you’re lounging poolside, even if you’re just unwinding at home on a Friday night.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore the Malibu Princess Cocktail, and I can’t wait for you to try it yourself. Here are just a few of the highlights:

1. It’s visually stunning
That bright neon green hue from the Midori, combined with a tall swirl of whipped cream and the sparkle of pink sugar on the rim, makes this drink an absolute showstopper.

2. It’s incredibly easy to make
You don’t need fancy bartending tools or techniques—just a shaker, a few ingredients, and a fun attitude.

3. It’s customizable
Make it frozen, skip the alcohol, or add a little extra kick. The core ingredients leave plenty of room for your personal twist.

4. It’s perfect for parties
From bridal showers and birthdays to tropical-themed get-togethers, this cocktail adds color and fun to any occasion.

5. It’s deliciously sweet and fruity
If you love cocktails that taste like candy with a tropical edge, this one’s for you.

What Does the Malibu Princess Taste Like?

The Malibu Princess Cocktail has a sweet and fruity profile that’s balanced by a soft coconut undertone. The Midori melon liqueur brings a juicy, almost honeydew-like flavor, while Malibu adds its signature tropical coconut essence. The pineapple juice ties everything together with a citrusy brightness, though using Sprite or another citrus soda adds a bubbly lift that’s both fun and refreshing.

The topping of whipped cream might sound unusual for a cocktail, but it works beautifully here, adding richness and a velvety finish. The maraschino cherry is the final sweet note—both visually and in flavor. All in all, this cocktail tastes like a fruity dessert on vacation.

Ingredients for the Malibu Princess Cocktail (Serves 1)

• 1 ounce Midori (melon liqueur)
• 1 ounce Malibu (coconut rum)
• 2 ounces pineapple juice or Sprite (citrus soda)
• Whipped cream (canned or homemade)
• Pink sugar or sprinkles (for rimming)
• 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)
• Ice (cubed or crushed)

Tools You’ll Need to Make This Drink

• Cocktail shaker or mason jar with lid
• Measuring jigger or shot glass
• Tall glass (such as a hurricane or highball)
• Plate for rimming sugar or sprinkles
• Ice cube tray or blender for crushed ice
• Bar spoon or regular spoon (for stirring)

Substitutions and Ingredient Additions

This cocktail is fun to play around with, especially if you like to personalize your drinks or use what’s already in your bar or kitchen. Here are a few easy ways to adapt or elevate your Malibu Princess Cocktail:

Don’t have Midori?
Swap in another melon-flavored liqueur, or try sour apple schnapps for a tangy twist.

No Malibu?
Use any coconut-flavored rum, or even vanilla rum if that’s what you have. You can also try white rum with a splash of coconut cream.

Prefer it creamier?
Add a splash of coconut milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream and blend for a dessert-like version.

Make it non-alcoholic
Use melon syrup or green apple syrup in place of Midori and coconut water instead of Malibu. Top with pineapple soda or lemon-lime soda for fizz.

Want it stronger?
Add ½ ounce of vodka or white rum for an extra kick.

Make it tropical-candy sweet
Add a splash of grenadine before shaking, or garnish with a few gummy candies for a playful twist.

How to Make the Malibu Princess Cocktail: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Rim the Glass
Start by moistening the rim of your glass with water, juice, or simple syrup. Pour your pink sugar or sprinkles onto a small plate and dip the rim into it to coat. Set aside.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a shaker filled with ice, add the Midori, Malibu, and pineapple juice (or citrus soda). If using soda, be sure to shake very gently—just enough to chill the mixture without losing the carbonation.

Step 3: Serve Over Ice or Blend
Fill your prepared glass with ice and strain the drink over it. Alternatively, you can blend the mixture with crushed ice for a frozen, slushy version.

Step 4: Top with Whipped Cream
Generously swirl whipped cream on top. The contrast between the bright green drink and the creamy topping is pure cocktail magic.

Step 5: Garnish and Accessorize
Place a maraschino cherry right on top of the whipped cream. Add a fun straw, cocktail umbrella, or even edible glitter if you’re feeling fancy.

What to Serve with the Malibu Princess Cocktail

To complete the tropical experience, consider pairing this drink with light, beachy snacks or desserts. Some of my favorite pairings include:

• Coconut shrimp with a sweet chili dipping sauce
• Mini pineapple tarts or coconut macaroons
• Tropical fruit skewers with kiwi, mango, and strawberries
• Spicy popcorn with lime zest
• Grilled fish tacos with mango salsa

The sweet and juicy notes of the Malibu Princess balance wonderfully with salty or spicy finger foods. You can also turn this into a dessert drink by serving it alongside vanilla cupcakes or a slice of coconut cake.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Malibu Princess

• Always use fresh ice for the cleanest flavor and coldest chill.
• Don’t overshake if you’re using soda—too much shaking will make it go flat.
• Chill your glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes before serving to keep your drink colder longer.
• Make it your own by offering guests a “toppings station” with sprinkles, extra cherries, or even flavored whipped creams.
• Double or triple the recipe for a crowd, but always garnish right before serving for the best visual impact.

How to Store Ingredients and Prepare Ahead

While this drink is best made fresh, you can prep a few components ahead of time for easier entertaining.

• Mix the Midori, Malibu, and juice together and store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Rim the glasses ahead of time and set them aside (unfilled) until ready to serve.
• Keep whipped cream chilled and ready to swirl at the last minute.
• Store opened Midori and Malibu at room temperature in a cool, dry place.

General Info About This Cocktail

• Type: Tropical/Fruity cocktail
• Serving Size: 1 tall glass
• Color: Bright neon green
• Flavor Profile: Sweet, fruity, tropical
• Best Served: Chilled or frozen
• Occasions: Parties, summer nights, girls’ night, themed events

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Multiply the recipe by the number of guests and mix the alcohol and juice/soda in a large pitcher. Serve over ice and let everyone garnish their own glass.

Is this drink too sweet?
It’s definitely on the sweet side. If you prefer a more balanced drink, use pineapple juice instead of soda and skip the whipped cream.

Can I make this a frozen cocktail?
Absolutely. Blend all the ingredients with 1 cup of crushed ice for a slushy, milkshake-style drink.

What if I don’t have whipped cream?
You can skip it, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and blend the drink for a creamier finish.

How do I make it look like the pictures on Pinterest?
Use a tall hurricane glass, rim it with colorful sugar, swirl a generous layer of whipped cream, and don’t forget the cherry. Add a cocktail umbrella or colorful straw for that extra flair.

Final Thoughts: Why the Malibu Princess Cocktail Deserves a Spot on Your Drink List

The Malibu Princess Cocktail isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience. It’s a visual treat, a taste of the tropics, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one. It’s the kind of cocktail that makes you smile before you even take a sip. Whether you’re planning a beach-themed bash or just want to treat yourself to something sweet and fun, this cocktail delivers every time.

If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy these tropical favorites:

• Pineapple Upside Down Cake Daiquiri
• Jamaican Me Happy Cocktail
• Tropical Candy Crush Cocktail

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