Dirty Banana Cocktail

The Dirty Banana has become a beloved staple in beach resorts across Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. It’s often the go-to choice for travelers looking for something tropical yet indulgent—a drink that feels like dessert in a glass. Though its exact origins are hard to pin down, the cocktail rose to popularity in the 1970s and 1980s as resort bartenders began blending local rum with bananas and creamy liqueurs. Today, it’s served poolside from Montego Bay to Negril, making it one of the region’s most iconic frozen cocktails.

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What You’ll Need

• Light Rum – The crisp backbone of the drink, giving it a subtle kick without overpowering the sweetness.
• Coffee Liqueur – Adds depth and a roasted richness that balances the tropical flavors.
• Crème de Banane – A sweet banana liqueur that amplifies the fresh banana and ties the drink together.
• Fresh Banana – For natural creaminess and authentic banana flavor.
• Heavy Cream – Provides luxurious texture and a velvety finish.
• Ice – Essential for blending everything into a frosty, milkshake-like consistency.

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Tropical Indulgence

This cocktail is more than just a frozen drink—it’s a vacation in a glass. The roasted coffee notes play beautifully against the sweet banana, while the rum gives it a lively spirit. It’s refreshing enough for hot afternoons by the pool, but rich enough to double as a dessert cocktail after dinner. If you’ve ever wished a milkshake could come with a splash of Caribbean sunshine, the Dirty Banana delivers.

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Substitutions & Variations

• Rum: Swap light rum for dark rum if you want more molasses richness. Coconut rum also works if you’re chasing a tropical twist.
• Coffee Liqueur: Kahlúa is the classic, but Tia Maria or any quality coffee liqueur works. For a lighter touch, try cold-brew concentrate with a little sugar.
• Cream: Heavy cream is decadent, but half-and-half or whole milk can make it lighter. For dairy-free, use coconut cream or almond milk.
• Extra Chocolatey: Drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass or add a splash of crème de cacao for a dessert-like spin.
• Frozen Banana Base: Using a frozen banana instead of fresh plus ice gives an even thicker milkshake feel.

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Helpful Tips

• Garnish Smart: A banana slice, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder makes for an inviting presentation.
• Glassware: While highball glasses are standard, serving in a hurricane glass leans into its tropical roots.
• Batching: For parties, scale up the recipe and blend in batches, then keep chilled in the freezer until serving.
• Pairing: Works beautifully with Caribbean-inspired snacks like fried plantains, jerk chicken skewers, or coconut shrimp.
• Resort Style: Want the full Jamaican vibe? Serve with a drizzle of chocolate syrup on the inside of the glass before pouring.