Classic Hurricane Cocktail Recipe

Gather the ingredients for the classic hurricane cocktail

The list of ingredients for this cocktail might appear extensive, but they are quite easy to find. Light rum and dark rum form the foundation of this drink. Fresh lime juice, combined with orange and passion fruit juices, adds a delightful tangy-sweet flavor. To enhance the sweetness, simple syrup and grenadine are included, and the drink is garnished with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

Step 1: Add ice

Add ice to a shaker.

Step 2: Add light rum

Pour light rum into the shaker filled with ice.

Step 3: Add the second rum

Incorporate dark rum.

Step 4: Add lime

Incorporate lime juice.

Step 5: Add orange juice

Incorporate orange juice.

Step 6: Add passion fruit

Incorporate passion fruit juice.

Step 7: Add sweetener

Incorporate simple syrup.

Step 8: Add a touch of red

Incorporate grenadine.

Step 9: Shake

Shake until chilled.

Step 10: Add ice to the glass

Pour ice into a tall glass.

Step 11: Pour into glass

Pour into a glass filled with ice.

Step 12: Garnish

Decorate with an orange slice and a cherry.

Can I use a different rum in the classic hurricane cocktail or modify the drink?

This tropical beverage is built on a foundation of rum, highlighting its connection to the Caribbean. For optimal flavor, we suggest using two varieties of rum: light rum, which offers a more neutral taste, and dark rum, which imparts rich molasses notes. However, if you only have one type on hand, feel free to use just that. Alternatively, you can substitute dark rum with spiced rum for a deeper, more complex flavor profile. A rum with hints of cinnamon will lend a more wintry essence to the drink.

If rum isn't your preference, you can easily swap it for another neutral spirit like vodka, which allows the fruit juices to take center stage. For a different twist, consider using bourbon, which adds a sweeter and richer character. You can also experiment with additional juices, such as grapefruit or lemon, or modify the juice-to-liquor ratio to match your personal taste.

Can I make the hurricane cocktail ahead of time?

The hurricane cocktail is a classic party beverage, typically prepared in a pitcher for convenient serving to a group. You can also prepare individual servings in advance. The cocktail components can be measured and combined in the shaker or pitcher up to an hour before shaking and serving. If you're making it ahead of time, just add ice right before shaking and strain it over fresh ice when you're ready to enjoy.

To create a pitcher of the hurricane, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings needed and mix everything in a large pitcher. Since you can't shake the pitcher, allow the ingredients to sit for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld, then stir the mixture thoroughly before serving. Be sure to have plenty of crushed ice on hand to serve with the cocktail.

What type of glass should I serve the hurricane cocktail in?

Traditionally, a Hurricane cocktail is served in a large hurricane glass, characterized by its wide base, tapered middle, and flared top, which provides ample space for a fresh fruit garnish while enhancing the drink's tropical appeal. Some believe the glass mimics the shape of a hurricane funnel over water. However, if you're making this drink at home, you might not want to invest in hurricane glasses specifically.

In that case, a Collins or highball glass can serve just as well. These tall glasses offer plenty of space for ice and the combination of alcohol and juices. They also allow for creative fruit garnishes, giving you the freedom to get inventive when serving the hurricane. We suggest using a maraschino cherry and an orange slice, but you could also add a cocktail umbrella, a cocktail pick adorned with various fruits, or even a glass straw for a fun touch.