Jungle Bird Tropical Cocktail Recipe

Step into the untamed world of tropical mixology as we delve into the captivating tale of the Jungle Bird cocktail. According to Ksenia Prints of At the Immigrant's Table, this libation is a masterpiece, blending dark rum, Campari's bitterness, and the lusciousness of pineapple juice.

According to Thirst Mag, this classic tiki cocktail was first created in 1973 at the old Kuala Lumpur Hilton on Jalan Sultan Ismail, the first five-star hotel in Kuala Lumpur. As such, it combines classic tropical flavors, strong rum, and a style that genuinely screams "summer." Plus, with a splash of freshly squeezed lime juice and a touch of simple syrup for balance, the Jungle Bird cocktail leaves you craving more.

Grab your shaker, unleash your inner mixologist, and transport yourself to Southeast Asia with the Jungle Bird cocktail as your guide. Cheers to a wild and delicious experience!

Prepare for the Jungle Bird cocktail by gathering the following ingredients: dark rum, Campari, pineapple juice, freshly squeezed lime juice, simple syrup, and garnishes such as a pineapple wedge, pineapple leaves, and an Amarena cherry.

Instead of the traditional maraschino cherry, we prefer the Amarena cherry in the Jungle Bird cocktail for its intense sweetness and tartness. These Italian wild cherries are known for their rich taste and deep red color. Preserved in syrup, they provide a delicious finishing touch and add an elegant element to the cocktail.

Combine the dark rum, Campari, pineapple, lime, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. This dynamic blend unites the rich dark rum notes with Campari's intriguing bitterness. Pineapple juice adds a tropical twist, while freshly squeezed lime juice provides a refreshing tang. Finally, simple syrup balances all the flavors with a touch of sweetness.

Shake the mixture vigorously for 15–30 seconds. Feel the rhythm as the flavors meld together, creating a compelling fusion of tropical goodness. The shaker becomes your instrument, orchestrating a symphony of taste.

No tiki drink is complete without a stunning garnish, and the Jungle Bird cocktail is no exception. Take your presentation to the next level with a touch of tropical elegance. Crown your creation with a few long, vibrant pineapple leaves, showcasing the essence of the jungle. A pineapple wedge adds a charming visual element, inviting you to indulge in the drink's tropical flavors. Finally, top it off with a luscious Amarena cherry, adding a pop of intense sweetness and a delightful finishing touch.

Now it's time to present the Jungle Bird cocktail in all its glory. Pour the blended drink into an old-fashioned glass with a large ice cube, allowing the flavors to mingle and cool. We recommend you go all out and throw an entire tiki party and offer other tropical cocktails to showcase this unique drink. Raise your glass, take a sip, and relish the paradise of flavors in every sip. Cheers to a well-crafted cocktail!