Hey there, cocktail enthusiasts! Whether you're relaxing on a sun-drenched beach or just unwinding in your backyard, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing tropical drink to set the mood. So, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Tiki With a Twist, a delightful book that brings the vibrant flavors of the islands straight to your glass. Author and tiki bar owner Lynn Calvo shares her vision: “This book is all about escaping, even if it's just for an hour, to a faraway island where the sun is shining, the rum is flowing, and the water sparkles. Let’s raise a glass to finding your own slice of paradise, wherever it may be. Whether you're soaking up the sun on a sandy beach or enjoying a breezy evening at home, these cocktails are sure to inspire and delight you and your loved ones.” So, grab your ingredients and let’s craft some magic for tonight!
Coconut Cucumber Mojito: A Cool and Crisp Delight
(Serves 1)
Here’s a refreshing cocktail that’s as refreshing as it is easy to make. You’ll need 5 fresh mint leaves, 3 lime wheels, 3 cucumber wheels (plus extra for garnish), 1/2 ounce of agave nectar or runny honey, 2 ounces of coconut rum, chilled club soda, a sprig of mint for garnish, and an optional sugarcane stalk for a fun touch. This drink combines the tropical essence of coconut with the crisp freshness of cucumber and mint, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will transport you straight to the islands.
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Directions:
Let’s break it down step by step. First, place the mint leaves, lime wheels, cucumber wheels, and agave nectar in a large rocks glass. Gently muddle these ingredients to release their flavors without bruising the mint too much. Next, fill the glass with crushed ice and add the coconut rum. Here’s the fun part: transfer everything to a cocktail shaker and shake it up for a few seconds to infuse the rum with the fresh, zesty flavors. Pour it back into the glass, top with a splash of club soda, and garnish with the mint sprig, sugarcane stalk, and a few more cucumber wheels if you like. Voila! You’ve got yourself a Coconut Cucumber Mojito that’s as refreshing as it sounds.
Did you know?
Sugarcane isn’t just for garnish—it’s also a treat on its own! You can chew or suck on a raw sugarcane stalk to extract its sweet juice. Just make sure to peel off the tough outer skin first.
PER SERVING: 162 calories, 0g protein, 27g carbs, 1g fiber, 15g sugar, 0g fat.

Banana Hammock: A Tropical Getaway in a Glass
(Serves 1)
Now, let’s dive into something a little more indulgent with the Banana Hammock. This creamy, fruity cocktail is perfect for those who love a rich, tropical experience. You’ll need 1 large, ripe banana, 3 ounces of Hula Hut Hula Juice spiced coconut rum (or a mix of 1 1/2 ounces light rum, 1 ounce coconut rum, and 1/2 ounce dark rum), 1 ounce of Coco López or cream of coconut, 2 ounces of pineapple juice, 1/2 ounce of fresh lime juice, 1/8 ounce of grenadine, 1/4 cup of fresh or frozen blackberries, and 1/4 cup of vanilla ice cream or fat-free frozen yogurt.
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Directions:
Start by peeling the banana and cutting it into four equal pieces. Spear one of the end pieces with a 4-inch skewer and set it aside for garnish. In a blender, combine the remaining banana pieces with the rum or rum mix, cream of coconut, pineapple juice, lime juice, grenadine, blackberries, ice cream or frozen yogurt, and 1 1/4 cups of ice. Blend until smooth, then pour the drink into a hurricane glass. Lay the speared banana garnish across the rim of the glass and serve with a straw. It’s like a mini vacation in every sip!
PER SERVING: 489 calories, 3g protein, 89g carbs, 5g fiber, 52g sugar, 6g fat.

Honeydew Daiquiri: A Sweet and Zesty Escape
(Serves 1)
Finally, let’s talk about the Honeydew Daiquiri—a sweet and tangy cocktail that’s perfect for those who love a bit of fruity zing. You’ll need 1/2 cup of fresh honeydew melon chunks or balls (plus one wedge for garnish), 2 ounces of Hula Hut Lé Tahitian vanilla and pineapple vodka (or any vanilla or pineapple-flavored vodka), 1/2 ounce of melon liqueur like Midori or Dekuyper, 3 ounces of pineapple juice, 1/2 ounce of fresh lime juice, 1/2 cup of vanilla ice cream or fat-free frozen yogurt, and an optional edible orchid for garnish.
Directions:
Start by blending the honeydew chunks with the vodka, melon


