Pineapple Screwdriver Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Pineapple Screwdriver recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Vodka
Alcohol 14%
Calories 210 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 1g
Carbohydrates 28g
Prep time 2 minutes

Ever dreamed of making the perfect Pineapple Screwdriver or sipping on a cocktail that takes you on a vacation with every sip? Well, you’re in the right place! We’ll dive into the flavor profile, history, and how to craft this refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Get ready to shake, stir, and pour your way to cocktail bliss. ⬇️

History

The Pineapple Screwdriver cocktail, while not as ancient as some drinks, has carved its niche in the cocktail world relatively recently. It’s a tropical twist on the classic Screwdriver, blending the traditional vodka and orange juice with the sweet, tangy punch of pineapple. This concoction likely emerged from the modern trend of adding exotic fruits to classic cocktails to appeal to a broader palette.

  • The name “Screwdriver” originally comes from oil workers in the Middle East who used to stir their vodka and orange juice mix with a screwdriver.
  • Pineapple was added to the mix to give the traditional Screwdriver a fruity, tropical edge, making it more appealing to those seeking a summer vibe in their drink.
  • Its popularity soared in beach resorts around the world, where the demand for refreshing, fruity cocktails is always high.

The taste of a Pineapple Screwdriver?

A Pineapple Screwdriver tastes like a burst of summer in your mouth. It combines the sharp, crispness of vodka with the sweet, tropical flavors of pineapple and the citrus kick of orange juice for a refreshing and invigorating drink.

I personally love drinking Pineapple Screwdrivers because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Interesting facts about Pineapple Screwdriver

  • It can be customized with different vodkas, including flavored varieties, to create unique twists on the classic recipe.
  • Pineapple juice not only adds flavor but also helps to soften the vodka’s bite, making the cocktail smoother.
  • Despite its fruity taste, a Pineapple Screwdriver can pack a punch, with the alcohol content easily sneaking up on you.

Ingredients 📃

  • Vodka: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Pineapple Juice: 3 oz (90ml)
  • Orange Juice: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Ice Cubes: As needed

A Highball glass is the ideal vessel for serving a Pineapple Screwdriver, as its tall shape showcases the vibrant layers of the drink. This glass type enhances the drinking experience by keeping the cocktail well-mixed and visually appealing. An alternative could be a Mason jar for a more casual, rustic presentation.

Recipe. How to make Pineapple Screwdriver 🍹

  1. Pour 2 oz of vodka into a highball glass filled with ice cubes.
  2. Add 3 oz of pineapple juice and 1 oz of orange juice.
  3. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  4. Garnish with a slice of pineapple or an orange wedge, if desired.

Pineapple Screwdrivers are delicious but remember they contain sugar and calories from the juices. For a healthier version, you could use natural sweeteners or less sugar. The pineapple juice provides some vitamins and antioxidants, but it’s also important to consume the drink in moderation due to its alcohol content.

Rate this recipe


Food Pairings

Certain foods can elevate the tropical flavors of a Pineapple Screwdriver, making each sip an experience to savor.

Grilled Seafood

The cocktail’s acidity and fruitiness cut through the richness of grilled seafood, enhancing the natural flavors.

Spicy Asian Dishes

The sweetness of the Pineapple Screwdriver balances the heat from spicy dishes, creating a harmonious taste experience.

Light Desserts

Pair it with light, fruity desserts for a refreshing end to any meal. The cocktail’s vibrant flavors complement the sweetness of desserts without overpowering them.

I really enjoy the taste of Pineapple Screwdrivers—the cool, tangy pineapple and zesty orange make it a perfect drink for unwinding after a long week.


🍸 Mix up your beverage routine
Receive the freshest cocktail recipes and bar trends directly in your inbox.
Please enter a valid email address
That address is already in use
The security code entered was incorrect
Thanks for signing up

Bartender Advice

  • Always use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor profile.
  • Chill the glass before serving to keep your cocktail refreshingly cold.
  • Experiment with flavored vodkas to introduce new and exciting twists to your Pineapple Screwdriver.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Pineapple Screwdriver, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Pineapple Screwdriver

  • Vodka: Can be replaced with dark rum for a deeper flavor.
  • Pineapple Juice: Use freshly juiced pineapple for a fresher taste and less sugar.
  • Orange Juice: Blood orange juice can add a rich, unique twist.

Pineapple Screwdriver Variations

Tropical Thunder

  • Ingredients: Add coconut water for a hydrating, tropical twist.
  • Recipe: Mix as usual, replacing half the pineapple juice with coconut water.

Spicy Sunrise

  • Ingredients: Introduce a slice of jalapeño to the mix for a spicy kick.
  • Recipe: Muddle the jalapeño in the glass before adding the other ingredients.

Berry Blast

  • Ingredients: Incorporate raspberry vodka and a splash of cranberry juice.
  • Recipe: Combine with the standard ingredients for a fruity explosion.

For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the vodka with sparkling water or soda for a Virgin Pineapple Screwdriver. You still get all the tropical flavors without the alcohol.

Q&A

Can I make a Pineapple Screwdriver in advance?

Yes, you can mix the juices ahead of time, but it’s best to add the vodka and ice right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

What’s the best way to garnish a Pineapple Screwdriver?

A slice of pineapple or an orange wedge makes for a visually appealing and flavorful garnish, adding a touch of elegance to your drink.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?

Absolutely, by swapping out the vodka for a non-alcoholic alternative like soda, you can enjoy a Virgin Pineapple Screwdriver that’s just as refreshing.

How can I make my Pineapple Screwdriver healthier?

Opt for natural sweeteners, use freshly squeezed juices, and consider a lighter vodka option to reduce the calorie count.

Can I use canned pineapple juice?

While fresh is always best for flavor, canned pineapple juice can be a convenient alternative if you’re short on time or fresh pineapples.

What food pairs well with a Pineapple Screwdriver?

Grilled seafood, spicy dishes, and light desserts complement the cocktail’s flavors, making it a versatile drink for many occasions.

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.

Scarface

The Scarface cocktail is a bold, spirited blend with a sharp citrus twist and a smooth whisky undertone. It presents a complex flavor that is both invigorating and sophisticated, perfect for those who appreciate a drink with character.

Toilet Bowl

The Toilet Bowl cocktail is a whimsical, unconventional drink that combines a mix of blue curaçao and vodka, creating a vivid blue hue reminiscent of clean water in a toilet. It is often served in a novelty toilet-shaped glass to amuse guests and spark conversation.

Popping Boba

A Popping Boba cocktail is an exciting, fun beverage that combines the fizzy sweetness of fruit-flavored bubbles with the smooth taste of alcohol. These delightful orbs burst in your mouth, adding a playful twist to the sophisticated flavors of the drink.

Wet Willies

A Wet Willies cocktail is a vibrant, frozen concoction that swirls together fruity flavors with a smooth, icy texture. It's a delightful treat that offers a playful mix of sweetness and a gentle buzz, perfect for sipping on a warm day.

Nordic Summer

The Nordic Summer cocktail is a delightful blend of crisp flavors, featuring the bright notes of seasonal berries and the smooth essence of dill, paired with a clean vodka base. It is a charming and light concoction that captures the essence of Scandinavian midsummer festivities.

Smooth Sailing

The Smooth Sailing cocktail is a delightful blend of tropical flavors that dance smoothly on the palate, featuring a harmonious mix of rum and citrus with a whisper of vanilla. It's a gentle, soothing drink that invites you to relax, like a serene voyage on calm waters.