Zanzibar Cocktail recipe
A vibrant tropical escape combining rich dark rum with apricot, orange liqueur, and almond syrup.
Method: Shake ·
Glass: Coupe glass ·
Time: 3 min ·
Difficulty: Intermediate ·
Family: The Tiki & Tropical Family
Ingredients
- 2 oz Dark rum
- 1/4 oz Apricot liqueur
- 1/4 oz Grand Marnier
- 1/2 oz Orgeat syrup
- 1/2 oz Orange juice
- 1/2 oz Fresh lime juice
How to make a Zanzibar Cocktail
- Measure all ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for 10 to 15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Fine strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with an orange wheel or fresh mint sprig.
- Serve immediately while cold and aromatic.
Garnish
Orange wheel or mint sprig
Pro tip
Using a rich dark Jamaican rum adds deep molasses notes that anchor the bright citrus and sweet almond flavors.
History of the Zanzibar Cocktail
Created in February 2014 by mixologist Simon Difford at the Cabinet Room in London, the Zanzibar Cocktail was designed as a sophisticated tropical sour. It bridges traditional rum-based tiki complexity with refined modern cocktail crafting standards.
Flavour profile
Tangy, Fruity, Nutty, Complex
Variations
- Zanzibar Mai Tai — Substitute Curaçao for Grand Marnier and add a float of overproof rum.
- Tropical Zanzibar — Incorporate a splash of fresh pineapple juice for an enhanced island profile.
- Spiced Zanzibar — Infuse the orgeat syrup with toasted cardamom and cinnamon for extra warmth.
Practise making the Zanzibar Cocktail in the free Virtual Bar game.