This brass monkey drink is perfect for those who are looking for a simple tropical flavor cocktail. It’s easy to make and perfect for sipping year-round.
Brass monkeys have always been one of my favorite cocktails. I remember the first time I had one at a party and how delicious it was. I was hooked from that moment on.
For those of you who haven’t had the pleasure of trying a brass monkey, it is an orange juice cocktail that is usually served in a highball glass. The recipe for a brass monkey is very simple: dark rum, vodka, and orange juice.
It’s the perfect drink for summertime or any time you need a little pick-me-up. If you’re looking for something a little different, try adding a splash of grenadine or triple sec. I guarantee you’ll love it!
Why we love this drink:
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- It’s super easy to make.
- It only requires a few ingredients.
- It’s perfect for summertime or anytime and is easy to whip up.
History of The Brass Monkey Cocktail
The Brass Monkey cocktail has a long and storied history dating back to the 1970s. The Heublein Company was the first to commercially produce the premixed cocktail, and it quickly gained popularity in the 1980s after the release of the Beastie Boys’ song of the same name.
Although it was widely believed that the Beastie Boys were referencing a different drink made from malt liquor and orange juice, Mike D has since confirmed that the Heublein cocktail is, in fact, the one mentioned in the song. Over the years, the recipe for Brass Monkey has varied somewhat, but it typically includes a mixture of rum, vodka, and orange juice.
It’s sometimes referred to as a “poor man’s mimosa” due to its similar flavor profile, and it remains a popular choice for brunch cocktails to this day. Thanks to its history and delicious taste, the Brass Monkey is a timeless classic that is sure to be enjoyed for many years to come.
What is a Brass Monkey Drink?
The Brass Monkey drink recipe is a cocktail that was originally created in the 1970s. It is made with orange juice, vodka, and dark rum. The drink has a tropical flavor and is perfect for sipping year-round.
How to Make a Brass Monkey Drink
Here’s everything you need to know to create your own brass monkey drink!
Tools
Here are the tools you’ll need to make this drink.
- Cocktail Shaker
- Cocktail Jigger
- Citrus Squeezer
- Glass
Ingredients
Full recipe in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Orange Juice – Use fresh-squeezed orange juice when making this cocktail. Orange juice is high in Vitamin C and has a sweet, citrusy flavor. There are several types of oranges you can use. Blood orange will give the drink a pink color.
Vodka – A type of alcoholic beverage that is made from grain or potatoes. It is typically distilled multiple times to create a smooth, flavorless spirit
Dark Rum – A type of alcoholic beverage that is made from molasses or sugarcane juice. It is typically aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two years. Dark rum has a deep amber color and a rich, molasses-like flavor.
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice cubes.
Shake well and strain into a hurricane glass or Collins glass.
Garnish with an orange slice or cherry, if desired.
Brass Monkey Drink Ratio
The perfect brass monkey drink ratio is two parts orange juice to one part vodka and 1/2 ounce dark rum. This will give you the perfect balance of sweetness and booze.
Tips for Making This Cocktail
Here are some expert tips for making the best brass monkey cocktail:
- Use fresh-squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
- If you don’t have dark rum, you can use light rum or white rum instead.
- To make a non-alcoholic brass monkey, simply omit the rum and vodka.
- For a sweeter drink, add a splash of grenadine or triple sec.
- Garnish with an orange slice or cherry to add a festive touch.
Brass Monkey Drink Variations
If you’re looking for something a little different try any of these variations below:
- Add a splash of grenadine or triple sec. I guarantee you’ll love it!
- You can also add 1/2 ounce simple syrup to sweeten the cocktail.
- Give it some fresh lemon juice.
- Add a little soda water over the top.
- Use grapefruit juice instead of orange juice.
Brass Monkey Cocktail Garnishes
There are several ways you can garnish this festive drink! The most common garnish for a brass monkey drink is an orange slice or cherry. Here are some more ideas:
- Orange Zest
When to Serve a Brass Monkey Drink
The brass monkey drink is perfect for summertime or any time you need a little pick-me-up. Here are some occasions when we like to serve a brass monkey:
Birthday Party it’s also perfect for a last-minute birthday party!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the brass monkey is a real drink! The recipe is typically made with orange juice, vodka, and dark rum.
Yes, brass monkey liquor is still available for purchase. You can find it in most liquor stores.
A brass monkey typically has a sweet and citrusy flavor. The drink is perfect for sipping year-round.
The brass monkey drink was invented by the Heublein Company in the 1970s.
Is there a difference between a brass monkey and a monkey wrench?
There is no difference between a brass monkey and a monkey wrench. They are both cocktails that were created in the 1970s.
More Orange Juice Cocktails
Orange Juice and Rum – Also called a Cuba Libre, this drink is made with just orange juice and rum.
Orange Juice and Vodka – Also known as the Screwdriver is the most classic orange juice drink.
Cranberry Juice, Orange Juice, and Vodka – The Cosmopolitan is one of our favorite cocktails.
Perfect Mimosa – The most popular brunch cocktail of all time.
Tequila and Orange Juice – Has flavors similar to a margarita. Easy to make and refreshing.
Whiskey and Orange Jucie – If you’re a whiskey lover, this easy drink is for you!
More Rum Cocktails
If you love cocktails with rum, here are more of our favorite rum drinks:
Pina Colada – A classic pineapple and rum cocktail. Perfect for sipping on the beach.
Mojito – One of our favorite white rum cocktails, especially our frozen version! You can also make a mojito bar for a party!
Jungle Bird – One sip of a classic mai tai and you’re instantly transported to a tropical beach!
Rum Punch – A classic rum punch recipe made with a few fresh ingredients.
Also check out more great cocktail recipes our favorite brunch recipes, the best-mixed drinks, tequila cocktails, gin cocktails, vodka cocktails, and cheap drinks to make at home!
Let us know what you think!
There you have it! Everything you need to know about the delicious and refreshing brass monkey drink. Whether you’re looking for a simple cocktail!
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Brass Monkey Drink
Ingredients
- 2 ounces orange juice
- 1 ounce vodka
- 1/2 ounce dark rum
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add all of the ingredients.
- Shake for 20 seconds, then strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an orange slice and cocktail umbrella.
Notes
Nutrition
