If you’ve ever ordered a Bahama Mama at Applebee’s, then you know exactly why it’s one of their most popular drinks — it’s fruity, fun, and tastes like a mini island getaway.
With just one sip, you’re transported to warm breezes, palm trees, and a carefree vacation mindset.
This Applebee’s Bahama Mama copycat recipe brings that same bright, tropical flavor home — with a mix of light and dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and just the right splash of grenadine and coconut.
Whether you’re hosting friends or just winding down on a warm evening, this drink is a party in a glass.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Bahama Mama is a go-to tropical cocktail for a reason — it’s bold, smooth, and super easy to make. This version captures the same Applebee’s vibe but uses better-quality ingredients and allows you to tweak the sweetness to your taste.
It’s also perfect for batching ahead of time, serving at summer cookouts, or dressing up with fun garnishes for a festive girls’ night in.
Plus, it looks just as pretty as it tastes, with that gorgeous sunset ombré effect from the grenadine.
What You’ll Need
- 1 oz light rum
- 1 oz dark rum
- ½ oz coconut rum (like Malibu)
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz orange juice
- ¼ oz grenadine
- ½ oz lime juice (optional, for balance)
- Ice cubes
- Garnish: orange slice, maraschino cherry, cocktail umbrella
Pro Tips
- Use fresh juices for the best flavor — especially orange and lime.
- Add grenadine last to get that beautiful red layer at the bottom.
- Shake with ice for chill and dilution — it keeps the drink smooth and cold.
- Garnish generously — the look is part of the fun! Add an umbrella or fun straw.
- Make it a mocktail: Skip the rums and add coconut water or club soda instead.
Tools You’ll Need
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or shot glass
- Tall glass (like a hurricane or highball glass)
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Bar spoon or straw
- Knife and cutting board for garnish
Substitutions & Variations
- No coconut rum? Add a splash of coconut cream or coconut water instead.
- Don’t like dark rum? Use all light rum or try spiced rum for a twist.
- Want it sweeter? Add more grenadine or a splash of simple syrup.
- Make it frozen: Blend all ingredients with ice for a frozen Bahama Mama slush.
- Batch it: Multiply the ingredients by 4–6 and serve in a pitcher for parties.
Make Ahead Tips
This cocktail is best enjoyed freshly shaken, but you can mix the rums and juices ahead of time and keep them chilled. Add the grenadine and garnishes right before serving to keep that classic layered look.
Instructions
1. Fill a Shaker
Add ice, light rum, dark rum, coconut rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and lime juice (if using) to a cocktail shaker.
2. Shake It Up
Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
3. Pour Over Ice
Fill a tall glass with fresh ice and strain the drink into the glass.
4. Add Grenadine
Slowly pour grenadine down the side of the glass — it will settle at the bottom and create a layered effect.
5. Garnish and Serve
Garnish with an orange slice, cherry, and a cocktail umbrella. Serve with a straw and enjoy!
Leftovers & Storage
This drink is best served fresh, but you can mix a pitcher of the base (minus ice and grenadine) and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Shake with ice and pour over fresh cubes when ready. Add grenadine and garnish last for presentation.
Recipe FAQs
1. Is a Bahama Mama strong?
It’s moderate in strength — with three types of rum, it’s got a kick, but the juices mellow it out. Adjust the ratios to taste.
2. What kind of rum works best?
Use a quality light rum for smoothness, a dark rum for depth, and a coconut rum like Malibu for that tropical flair.
3. Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes! Omit the rums and use coconut water, pineapple juice, orange juice, and grenadine. It’s a great mocktail.
4. Can I make it frozen?
Absolutely — blend all ingredients with a cup of ice until smooth for a refreshing frozen cocktail.
The Final Splash
This copycat Applebee’s Bahama Mama is sunshine in a glass — fruity, vibrant, and the perfect way to bring island vibes to your kitchen.
Whether you’re mixing up one for yourself or pouring a pitcher for friends, this cocktail is sure to steal the show.
Try it out and let me know in the comments if you added your own twist or served it with a backyard luau!