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Riedel Drink Specific Glassware Rocks Glass,9.98 oz (Engraved)

The Hot Zombie is a bold, citrusy, and slightly spiced rum cocktail that brings a tropical feel with a warm kick. This cocktail combines spiced rum, Grand Marnier, pineapple, and orange juice, with a touch of grenadine for a layered sunset effect. Perfect for summer parties or whenever you want to feel like you’re sipping a drink on a tropical island!

If you love the classic Zombie cocktail, this spiced variation will be your new favorite! The combination of warm spiced rum, smooth Grand Marnier, and fruity tropical juices makes this drink smooth yet powerful. The final touch? A splash of grenadine for color and sweetness!

Serve it at tiki parties, beach gatherings, or a night when you want to sip something exotic and fun!

Ingredients

1 oz (30 ml) Spiced Rum (e.g., Captain Morgan)
1 oz (30 ml) Grand Marnier
2 oz (60 ml) Orange Juice
2 oz (60 ml) Pineapple Juice
0.5 oz (15 ml) Grenadine
Ice Cubes

Garnish:

Pineapple Flag (pineapple wedge with a cherry on a pick)

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Glass

Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.

2️⃣ Shake the Ingredients

In a cocktail shaker, combine:
✅ Spiced rum
✅ Grand Marnier
✅ Orange juice
✅ Pineapple juice
✅ Grenadine
Shake vigorously for 5-10 seconds to chill and mix.

3️⃣ Pour & Serve

Strain the chilled mixture into the prepared highball glass.

4️⃣ Garnish & Enjoy!

Add a pineapple flag (a pineapple wedge with a cherry on a pick) for a fun, tropical presentation.
Serve immediately and enjoy this bold, flavorful tropical cocktail!

Notes

Make It Stronger: Increase spiced rum or Grand Marnier by 0.5 oz for extra kick.
Add a Zesty Twist: A splash of lime juice adds more tartness and brightness.
Swap the Rum: Use dark rum instead of spiced rum for a deeper, smokier flavor.
Make It Frozen: Blend all ingredients with crushed ice for a slushy version.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
Category: Cocktails, Drinks
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: Tropical, Tiki
Diet: Not Alcohol-Free
Keywords: Spiced Rum Cocktail, Grand Marnier Drink, Tropical Cocktail, Zombie Cocktail Variation

Equipment Needed

Cocktail shaker
Highball glass
Strainer
Bar spoon (optional, for layering the grenadine)

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx.)

Calories: ~230 kcal
Sugar: ~24g
Carbohydrates: ~26g
Alcohol Content: ~12-14% ABV

Helpful Tips

1️⃣ Use Fresh Juice for the Best Flavor – Freshly squeezed orange and pineapple juice make the drink taste more vibrant and refreshing.

2️⃣ Layer the Grenadine Carefully – For a beautiful sunset effect, pour the grenadine slowly down the side of the glass instead of stirring.

3️⃣ Balance the Sweetness – If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, reduce the grenadine to ¼ oz or add an extra splash of lime juice.

4️⃣ Try a Spicy Kick! – Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few slices of muddled jalapeño for an extra “hot” Zombie effect!

5️⃣ Make It a Party Drink! – Mix a large batch (multiply ingredients by the number of servings needed) and serve in a pitcher over ice.

Conservation and Storage

Refrigeration (Up to 24 Hours)

Pre-mix the base (spiced rum, Grand Marnier, orange juice, pineapple juice) and store in the fridge.
When ready to serve, shake with ice, pour, and add grenadine + garnish fresh.

Freezing (For Frozen Version – Up to 1 Month)

Want a frozen Hot Zombie?
1️⃣ Blend all ingredients (except grenadine) with crushed ice.
2️⃣ Store in an airtight container or ice cube trays and freeze.
3️⃣ When serving, blend again for a smooth, frozen cocktail, then add grenadine + garnish.

Avoid freezing the drink with ice cubes, as it will dilute the flavors when thawed.

Substitutions and Variations

Make It Extra Boozy: Add ½ oz of overproof rum (like 151-proof rum) on top for a stronger Zombie-style drink.
Add More Citrus: Swap Grand Marnier for triple sec or Cointreau for a lighter orange flavor.
Low-Sugar Version: Use fresh fruit juice instead of bottled and reduce the grenadine.
Mocktail Version: Replace rum with coconut water and Grand Marnier with orange zest syrup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a Hot Zombie and a classic Zombie?

The Hot Zombie uses spiced rum and Grand Marnier, giving it a warmer, citrusy, and slightly spicy twist, whereas a classic Zombie includes multiple rums and falernum.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

Yes! Pre-mix the rum, juices, and Grand Marnier, then store in the fridge. Shake with ice and add grenadine fresh when serving.

Can I use white rum instead of spiced rum?

Yes! However, spiced rum adds warmth and depth, while white rum makes it lighter.

Conclusion

The Hot Zombie is a deliciously bold twist on a classic tropical cocktail, blending spiced rum, Grand Marnier, and citrus juices with a touch of grenadine for a vibrant sunset effect. Whether you’re hosting a tiki party, summer gathering, or just craving a vacation-style drink, this cocktail delivers flavor, fun, and a tropical escape in every sip!

💬 Tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments! For more tiki-style drinks, check out Mai Tai or Bahama Mama.

Cheers! 🍹🔥🧟✨

Hot Zombie Cocktail: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Tropical Drink

Author: Olivia

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Description

The Hot Zombie is a bold, citrusy, and slightly spiced rum cocktail that brings a tropical feel with a warm kick. This cocktail combines spiced rum, Grand Marnier, pineapple, and orange juice, with a touch of grenadine for a layered sunset effect. Perfect for summer parties or whenever you want to feel like you’re sipping a drink on a tropical island!