This Brass Monkey cocktail is a refreshing, citrusy drink with a smooth kick that's perfect for relaxing evenings or casual get-togethers. With just a few simple ingredients, you get bright, bold flavor that feels both nostalgic and totally irresistible. It's quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress.
Recipe Essentials
- 🍽️ Course: Beverage / Cocktail
- ⏱️ Cooking Time: 5 minutes (no cooking required)
- 🍴 Servings: 1 drink
- 🧄 Flavor Profile: Citrusy, smooth, slightly sweet, lightly boozy
- 🍚 Best Served With: Appetizers, salty snacks, crack chicken sliders, chips & dips, BBQ dishes
- 🧊 Make Ahead?: Yes. Simply mix the liquids ahead and refrigerate, then add ice and garnish right before serving
Summarize and Save This Content On
This drink always reminds me of simple, no-fuss cocktails that still deliver big flavor. It's the kind of recipe you can whip up in seconds but still feels a little special with its vibrant orange color and smooth finish. Whether you're hosting friends or just unwinding, this one never disappoints.
This was inspired by my pineapple rum cocktail and white linen cocktail on this site, and pairs well with this ranch popcorn and pretzel turtles.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: You can mix this 3 ingredient cocktail in minutes.
- Refreshing flavor: The orange juice creates a timeless flavor that is easy to sip.
- Perfect for entertaining: It's simple enough to make for a crowd without stress at any time of year.
Ingredients
This recipe keeps things simple with easy-to-find ingredients you may already have at home.
- Orange Juice: Adds sweetness and a refreshing citrus base to the drink.
- Dark Rum: Provides a slightly rich, warm flavor.
- Vodka: Adds a smooth kick that balances the drink without overpowering it.
- Ice: Keeps the drink chilled and refreshing while slightly diluting it for balance.
See the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.
Variations
- Frozen version: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy cocktail.
- Tropical touch: Add a splash of pineapple juice, mango juice, coconut water or coconut milk for some tropical island flavor.
- Citrus blend: Mix in a little lemon or lime juice for added tanginess.
- Sparkling version: Top with a splash of sparkling water, club soda or sparkling wine for some bubbles.
- Berry addition: Muddle raspberries or strawberries before adding the liquids for a different flavor and a pop of color.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of ginger liqueur or muddle fresh ginger for subtle heat.
Instructions
This Brass Monkey comes together in just a few easy steps, making it perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a quick cocktail without fuss.
Step 1: Create Drink. Fill a 10-ounce glass about half full of ice cubes.
Then add dark rum and vodka to your glass.
Step 2: Blend and Serve. Stir all together. Garnish with an orange slice to elevate presentation.
Recipe Tips
- Use chilled ingredients: Cold juice and alcohol help keep the drink refreshing longer.
- Make ahead: You can mix the liquid ingredients ahead of time and store them inside your fridge, then add ice and garnish when serving.
- Adjust ratios: Taste and add more juice for a lighter drink or more alcohol for a stronger one.
- Use fresh orange juice: It gives the best flavor compared to store-bought.
- Don't overfill with ice: Too much ice can dilute the drink too quickly.
- Chill glasses for serving: Keeps drink cool longer.
- Make a pitcher: Easily scale up for parties and gatherings. Add ice just before serving to prevent dilution.
If you love recipes like this, you may also enjoy my love bug cocktail or this watermelon vodka cocktail. My Kentucky mule cocktail and bulleit old fashioned is really good too.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside appetizers like Italian sliders, garlic parmesan chicken wings, or totchos recipe
- Enjoy with grilled dishes or light summer salads like our bell pepper salad at parties or BBQs
- Offer with dessert for a sweet citrus finish
- Pair with salty snacks like cinnamon sugar pretzels or Oreo popcorn
Recipe FAQs
Dark rum is traditional because it adds depth and richness, but spiced rum can also be used for extra flavor.
Bottled orange juice works fine, but fresh-squeezed juice gives a brighter, more natural taste.
A highball or rocks glass works best, allowing room for ice and easy mixing.
Try flavored vodka like orange, lemon, lime, mango, pineapple or vanilla for added depth.
More Cocktail Recipes
Do you like cocktails? Here some recipes you may also like to try.
If you try this recipe and love it please leave a star rating in the recipe card below or even better, drop a review in the comment section. I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to follow along with me on Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube for more easy recipes!
Brass Monkey
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6 ounce orange juice
- 2 ounce dark rum
- 1 ounce vodka
- ice for serving
Instructions
- Fill a 10-ounce glass about half full of ice cubes.
- Pour in orange juice, dark rum and vodka.
- Stir until blended. Garnish with an orange slice to elevate presentation and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use chilled ingredients: Cold juice and alcohol help keep the drink refreshing longer.
- Make ahead: You can mix the liquid ingredients ahead of time and store them inside your fridge, then add ice and garnish when serving.
- Adjust ratios: Taste and add more juice for a lighter drink or more alcohol for a stronger one.
- Use fresh orange juice: It gives the best flavor compared to store-bought.
- Don't overfill with ice: Too much ice can dilute the drink too quickly.
- Chill glasses for serving: Keeps drink cool longer.
- Make a pitcher: Easily scale up for parties and gatherings. Add ice just before serving to prevent dilution.
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