Papaya Sling Cocktail – Tropical Gin and Papaya Mixed Drink
Unwind with the Papaya Sling Cocktail, a tropical twist on the classic gin sling. Smooth papaya purée, cherry brandy, and a splash of soda deliver a bright, fruit-forward drink that’s equal parts refreshing and adventurous.
Background
A modern offshoot of the Singapore Sling, this tropical version replaces grenadine with lush papaya purée. The result? A fruity island cocktail that keeps the balance of gin botanicals, citrus bite, and sparkling lift that define the original sling tradition.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Gin – the crisp, botanical base.
- Papaya Purée – adds creamy tropical sweetness.
- Cherry Brandy – deep fruit flavor and color.
- Triple Sec – bright orange notes for balance.
- Lime Juice – tart acidity that keeps it lively.
- Pineapple Juice – juicy tropical depth.
- Angostura Bitters – aromatic spice for structure.
- Carbonated Water – light fizz for a refreshing finish.
Equipment
Cocktail shaker • Fine strainer • Collins glass • Bar spoon • Ice
Why You’ll Love It
Tropical Harmony in a Glass
The Papaya Sling bridges old-school elegance and beach-bar fun. Sweet fruit layers meet gin’s herbal edge, with carbonation that keeps each sip crisp instead of heavy.
Substitutions & Variations
- Rum base for a tiki feel.
- Mango purée if papaya isn’t available.
- Grapefruit juice for a sharper citrus cut.
- Mint or basil leaves for an herbal lift.
Helpful Tips
- Fine strain for a silky texture.
- Serve in a chilled Collins glass to keep it bright.
- Batch the base (without soda) ahead and chill.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and cherry.
Papaya Sling Recipe
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Type of Glass
Collins Glass
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz.
- 1 oz.
- 3/4 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 3/4 oz.
- 1 1/2 oz.
- 1 dash
Directions
If you don't have papaya purée on hand, blend ripe papaya until smooth and fine strain to remove fibers.
Shake gin, papaya purée, cherry brandy, triple sec, lime juice, pineapple juice, and Angostura bitters with ice.
Fine strain into a chilled Collins glass filled with ice.
Top with carbonated water.
Garnish with a lime wheel and cherry.
Sip the Papaya Sling when you need a mini-vacation in a glass — a balanced, sparkling cocktail that feels like sunshine you can taste.
