Pineapple-Coconut Punch

By Vaughn Vreeland

Updated June 23, 2026

  • David Malosh for The New York Times. Food Stylist. Simon Andrews. Prop Stylist: Paige Hicks.
Media 1 of 1
Ready In
10 min
Rating
5(25)
Comments
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Based on the popular tiki drink known as a Painkiller, this big-batch punch requires no blending and is lightened with a bit of coconut water for a refreshing all-day cocktail. Either light or dark rum works well here, but a combination is preferable for a balanced cocktail that’s bright with a slightly complex finish. Adding frozen pineapple and dark sweet cherries just before serving not only chills the drink, but infuses it with flavor (and can be a fun snack as you drink).

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Ingredients

Yield:8 to 10 servings

  • 1½ cups coconut water

  • ½ cup canned cream of coconut 

  • 2 cups pineapple juice

  • ½ cup orange juice, preferably freshly squeezed 

  • 1 ½ cups rum (light, dark or a combination of both)

  • ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

  • 2 cups frozen pineapple chunks

  • 1 cup frozen pitted dark sweet cherries

Ingredient Substitution Guide
Nutritional analysis per serving (8 to 10 servings)

26 grams carbs; 203 calories; 2 grams saturated fat; 3 grams fat; 1 gram fiber; 46 milligrams sodium; 1 gram protein; 22 grams sugar

Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a large pitcher, whisk together the coconut water and cream of coconut until evenly blended. Add the pineapple juice, orange juice, rum and nutmeg (if using), and stir to combine. 

  2. Step 2

    If making ahead, refrigerate until ready to serve. Right before serving or transporting, add the frozen pineapple and cherries and enjoy.

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Ratings

5 out of 5
25 user ratings
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Comments

Steve

Given the chaos of the last couple of years just enjoy the rum, maybe double it and sink into the fleeting bliss until reality seeps back in

Malury

"All day" I would think means its good for a BBQ or good for a dinner, Or perhaps at brunch.

JERF

@Phyllis I think you could just leave out the rum and have a great drink! Maybe a little sweeter and less complex, though… in which case, adding soda water, which is fizzy and a little salty, might be a nice way to counteract over-sweetness. And/or some lime juice? Ginger? Bitters are also a great way to add flavor with a negligible amount of alcohol and there are a ton of options. Angostura, cardamom, or Bittermens Burlesque could all be good choices here.

Michelle Rice

This also tasted great when I substituted sparkling water for the rum. Very refreshing on a hot day when I didn't need the alcohol.

Liz MacDougald

Mount Gay rum!!!

cocomero

The coconut cream here is the sweetened kind that you find in the aisle for mixing drinks

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