The first time I made a bright green cocktail in my Nashville kitchen, my grandmother Dalida walked in, took one look at the vibrant drink in my hand, and said with that signature raised eyebrow of hers: “Olivia, if your drink glows like that, someone needs to explain what’s in it.”
Fair point, Grandma. But here’s what I’ve learned about the Liquid Marijuana cocktail despite its bold name and even bolder color, it’s actually a tropical celebration in a glass. No cannabis involved, just a playful mix of rum, melon liqueur, and Blue Curaçao that creates that eye-catching green hue. And while this isn’t my usual healthy breakfast territory, I believe food and drinks can be about joy, connection, and those special moments when we gather with the people we love.
My mom Julia always said that knowing exactly what goes into what we consume is half the wellness battle. So whether you’re hosting a summer party, celebrating with friends, or just want to try something fun and tropical, this guide will walk you through how to make a Liquid Marijuana cocktail that tastes as good as it looks plus a mocktail version for anyone who wants the flavor without the alcohol.
What Is a Liquid Marijuana Cocktail?
Let’s clear this up right away: despite the name, there’s no actual marijuana in this drink. It’s a tropical cocktail that gets its distinctive green color from combining Blue Curaçao (which is actually blue) with Midori melon liqueur (bright green). When you mix them together with rum and fruit juices, you get that signature emerald shade that makes people stop and ask, “What is that?”
Think of it as a grown-up tropical punch sweet, fruity, refreshing, and perfect for outdoor gatherings when you want something that feels like vacation in a glass. The blend of coconut rum, spiced rum, and citrus notes creates layers of flavor that go way beyond just looking pretty.
Where Did This Drink Come From?
The exact origins of the Liquid Marijuana cocktail are a bit hazy (pun intended), but it likely emerged during the tiki cocktail boom when bartenders were experimenting with colorful, layered drinks that looked as fun as they tasted. Some say it started in beach bars along the Gulf Coast, others claim it was a Vegas invention either way, it’s become a party staple for its vibrant appearance and crowd-pleasing flavor.
The name? Pure marketing genius. It catches attention, sparks conversation, and perfectly captures the laid-back, carefree vibe the drink represents. Just remember this is all about tropical flavors and good times, not anything else the name might suggest.
Essential Ingredients for Your Liquid Marijuana
After testing this recipe five times in my kitchen (yes, five I’m thorough like that), here’s what you’ll need for the best results. Each ingredient plays a specific role in building that tropical flavor profile:
- ½ oz. Captain Morgan Spiced Rum – Brings warmth and depth with hints of vanilla and caramel that balance the sweeter elements
- ½ oz. Blue Curaçao – The star player for color! This orange-flavored liqueur adds citrus notes and that brilliant blue tint. If you want to dive deeper into this ingredient, check out my complete guide to Blue Curaçao syrup where I break down everything from flavor profiles to making your own version
- ½ oz. Malibu Coconut Rum – This is your ticket to tropical paradise. The coconut flavor makes the whole drink feel like a beach vacation
- ½ oz. Midori Melon Liqueur – The green color comes from here, plus it adds a sweet, honeydew melon flavor that’s surprisingly refreshing
- ½ oz. Triple Sec – Enhances the citrus brightness and adds another layer of complexity
- 1 oz. Sweet and Sour Mix – Balances everything with tangy sweetness (I’ll share a lower-sugar alternative below)
- 1 oz. Pineapple Juice – Fresh is always better if you have it. The natural fruit sugars and acidity tie the whole drink together
Garnishes That Make It Special
Don’t skip the garnishes they’re what transform this from “just another green drink” to something Instagram-worthy and party-ready:
- Fresh pineapple wedge – Adds tropical flair and you can nibble on it between sips
- Maraschino cherry – That pop of red against the green is visually striking
- Fresh mint leaves – My personal favorite. The aroma when you bring the glass to your lips adds another sensory layer
- Lime wheel (optional) – Adds a citrusy touch and looks beautiful perched on the rim
How to Make a Liquid Marijuana Cocktail (Step-by-Step)
Here’s where the magic happens. I’ve streamlined this process after making it enough times to know what works and what doesn’t. Follow these steps for a perfectly balanced cocktail every time:
The Simple Mixing Method
Step 1: Prep Your Glass
Fill a highball or rocks glass with ice cubes this ensures your drink stays cold from first sip to last. I prefer highball glasses because they show off that gorgeous green color.
Step 2: Grab Your Cocktail Shaker
Fill your shaker about halfway with ice. This is crucial for getting the drink properly chilled and slightly diluted both of which improve the flavor.
Step 3: Add All Your Liquids
Pour in the Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Blue Curaçao, Malibu Coconut Rum, Midori, Triple Sec, sweet and sour mix, and pineapple juice. Yes, all at once. The order doesn’t matter here since you’re shaking everything together.
Step 4: Shake It Like You Mean It
Secure the lid tightly (learn from my mistakes I’ve cleaned cocktail off my ceiling) and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. You want to hear that ice really moving around in there. This is what creates that smooth, well-blended texture.
Step 5: Strain and Serve
Strain the mixture into your prepared glass over fresh ice. Watch how that green color catches the light it’s honestly beautiful.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Add your pineapple wedge, cherry, and mint leaves. Give the mint a gentle slap between your palms first to release those essential oils. Serve immediately while it’s ice-cold and refreshing.
Variations for Every Occasion
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re serving two people or twenty, want shots or mocktails, there’s a version that works.
Liquid Marijuana Shots
When you want something more concentrated for a quick toast or party game, shots are the way to go. Simply reduce all the alcohol quantities to ¼ oz. each, keep the juices at ½ oz. each, and pour into shot glasses. These pack a flavorful punch without being overwhelming perfect for kicking off a celebration.
Jungle Juice Style (Party Batch)
Hosting a crowd? I’ve got you. Here’s how to scale this up for a party punch bowl that serves 12-15 people:
- 6 oz. Captain Morgan Spiced Rum
- 6 oz. Blue Curaçao
- 6 oz. Malibu Coconut Rum
- 6 oz. Midori Melon Liqueur
- 6 oz. Triple Sec
- 12 oz. Sweet and Sour Mix
- 12 oz. Pineapple Juice
- 2 cups ice
Mix everything in a large pitcher or punch bowl, add plenty of ice, and let guests serve themselves. Pro tip: Freeze some of the pineapple juice in ice cube trays beforehand so the punch doesn’t get watered down as the party goes on.
Mocktail Version (Alcohol-Free Liquid Marijuana)
Here’s where my wellness-conscious side comes in. Not everyone drinks alcohol, and that shouldn’t mean missing out on the fun. This mocktail version captures the tropical flavor and that signature green color without any spirits:
Ingredients for Virgin Liquid Marijuana:
- 1 oz. Blue Curaçao Syrup (non-alcoholic version here’s my recipe for making it at home)
- 1 oz. Melon syrup or ½ oz. concentrated melon juice
- 1 oz. Coconut water or coconut milk (for that tropical flavor)
- 2 oz. Pineapple juice
- 1 oz. Fresh lime juice
- ½ oz. Simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Splash of lemon-lime soda or sparkling water for fizz
Mix everything except the soda in a shaker with ice, strain into a glass, top with your sparkling element, and garnish the same way. The result? A refreshing, family-friendly drink that looks just as impressive as the original. My friends who don’t drink actually prefer this version because it’s less sweet and lets the fruit flavors shine through.
Lower-Sugar Option
If you’re watching your sugar intake but still want to enjoy this cocktail occasionally, here are some simple swaps my mom would approve of:
- Replace the sweet and sour mix with fresh lime juice and a touch of liquid stevia or monk fruit sweetener
- Use fresh-squeezed pineapple juice instead of the bottled kind (less added sugar)
- Add a splash of sparkling water to cut the sweetness and add refreshing fizz
- Muddle fresh mint or basil in the glass before adding ice the herbs add flavor complexity without any sugar
Why This Cocktail Works for Parties
I’ll be honest when I first started experimenting with cocktail recipes for the blog, I wasn’t sure they fit with my wellness-focused brand. But then I remembered what my grandmother always said: “Food and drink are meant to bring people together.” Celebration is part of a balanced life, and having a beautiful, thoughtfully-made cocktail at a gathering is about connection, not just the alcohol.
Here’s why the Liquid Marijuana cocktail has become one of my go-to recipes when hosting:
It’s a Conversation Starter
That bright green color and bold name get people talking immediately. I’ve seen it break the ice at parties where people didn’t know each other everyone wants to know what it is and how you made it.
Easy to Scale Up or Down
Whether you’re making one drink or a punch bowl for twenty, the recipe adapts beautifully. You’re not stuck making drinks one at a time while your guests wait.
Appeals to Tropical Drink Lovers
If someone likes piña coladas, mai tais, or anything coconut-and-pineapple flavored, they’ll love this. It hits all those same tropical notes with its own unique twist.
Looks Impressive with Minimal Effort
Let’s be real presentation matters when you’re hosting. This drink looks like you spent way more time on it than you actually did. The garnishes take thirty seconds but make it look like something from a fancy beach resort.
Inclusive Options Available
With the mocktail version, everyone at your party can enjoy something special, whether they drink alcohol or not. That’s important to me no one should feel left out of the celebration.
Tips from My Nashville Kitchen
After making this drink more times than I can count (both for myself and for friends who’ve requested “that green drink”), here are some lessons I’ve learned the hard way so you don’t have to:
Always Use Fresh Ice
I know this seems obvious, but old freezer-burnt ice will affect the taste. If your ice has been sitting in the freezer absorbing odors for months, your tropical drink will taste like… well, your freezer. Fresh ice matters.
Don’t Skip the Shake
I tried just stirring once to save time. Big mistake. The shaking creates that silky texture and ensures everything blends properly. Those twenty seconds of shaking make a real difference in the final product.
Temperature Is Everything
This drink needs to be served ice-cold. If your glasses are warm and your ingredients are room temperature, you’ll end up with a lukewarm cocktail that doesn’t taste nearly as refreshing. I chill my glasses in the freezer for fifteen minutes before serving.
Adjust the Sweet and Sour to Your Taste
Some brands of sweet and sour mix are much sweeter than others. Start with ¾ oz. if you’re not sure, taste (carefully it’s strong at this point), and add more if needed. You can always add sweetness but you can’t take it away.
Fresh Garnishes Make a Difference
Wilted mint or brown pineapple wedges will ruin the visual appeal. Use fresh, vibrant garnishes and add them right before serving. If you’re making a big batch, prep your garnishes beforehand but don’t add them until the last minute.
Consider Your Glassware
Tall, clear glasses show off the color best. I’ve tried serving this in opaque cups at outdoor parties and it just doesn’t have the same impact. The visual element is part of what makes this drink special, so use glassware that lets it shine.
⚠️ Note Before You Try:
This cocktail is all about fun, flavor, and celebration but it contains alcohol and is only for those of legal drinking age (21+ in the US). The name is playful and doesn’t reflect any actual cannabis content. Always drink responsibly, never drink and drive, and know your limits. This article is meant to inspire occasional celebration drinks, not replace the healthy, nourishing recipes I typically share. If you have health concerns or questions about alcohol consumption, please consult your healthcare provider. I’m not a doctor or nutritionist just someone who believes balanced living includes both wellness and joy.
Your Questions About Liquid Marijuana Cocktails Answered
Does a Liquid Marijuana drink actually contain marijuana?
No, absolutely not. Despite the playful name, this cocktail contains zero cannabis products. It’s called “Liquid Marijuana” because of its vibrant green color and the laid-back, tropical vibe it represents. The drink is made with rum, Blue Curaçao, melon liqueur, and fruit juices no THC, no CBD, nothing cannabis-related. The name is purely about branding and fun, not content.
What makes the Liquid Marijuana green?
The signature green color comes from mixing two ingredients: Blue Curaçao (which is bright blue) and Midori melon liqueur (which is vibrant green). When combined, they create that eye-catching emerald hue that makes this cocktail so visually distinctive. No food coloring needed the color is all natural from the liqueurs themselves.
Can I make this drink without alcohol?
Yes! I’ve included a complete mocktail version in the recipe above. Use non-alcoholic Blue Curaçao syrup (I have a recipe for making your own), melon syrup, coconut water, pineapple juice, and fresh lime juice topped with sparkling water. You’ll get the same tropical flavor and green color without any alcohol. It’s perfect for designated drivers, pregnant friends, or anyone who simply doesn’t drink.
How strong is a Liquid Marijuana cocktail?
A standard Liquid Marijuana contains about 2.5 ounces of alcohol from five different spirits, which makes it moderately strong similar to a Long Island Iced Tea in terms of alcohol content. The fruit juices and sweet flavors mask the alcohol taste, so it goes down easier than you might expect. Always pace yourself and know your limits. The jungle juice version is typically slightly weaker per serving since it’s diluted with more mixer.
What does Liquid Marijuana taste like?
Think tropical vacation in a glass. The dominant flavors are coconut, melon, pineapple, and citrus with a hint of spice from the rum. It’s sweet but balanced by the tartness of the sweet and sour mix and pineapple juice. The overall profile is fruity, refreshing, and reminiscent of other tropical cocktails like piña coladas or mai tais, but with its own unique twist from the melon liqueur.
Can I make Liquid Marijuana shots?
Absolutely! Simply reduce all the alcohol measurements to ¼ oz. each and cut the juice amounts to ½ oz. each. Follow the same mixing method and pour into shot glasses. These are great for party toasts or starting off a celebration. The concentrated version packs more punch, so they’re best enjoyed slowly rather than as rapid-fire shots.
How far in advance can I make this for a party?
You can mix the liquid ingredients (everything except ice and garnishes) up to 4 hours ahead and store in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, pour over ice and add garnishes. Don’t add ice ahead of time or it’ll dilute the drink too much. For the jungle juice version, you can prep the mixture a few hours early, but add ice just before guests arrive to keep it properly chilled without watering it down.
What can I substitute if I don’t have all the liquors?
The Blue Curaçao and Midori are essential for the signature color, so those are hard to substitute. However, if you’re missing one of the rums, you can increase the other rum slightly or use vodka. If you don’t have Triple Sec, use more Blue Curaçao since both are orange-flavored. For the sweet and sour mix, you can make your own by combining equal parts fresh lemon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
A Drink That Brings People Together
After my grandmother Dalida tried my Liquid Marijuana cocktail reluctantly, I might add she smiled and said, “Well, at least it tastes like real fruit.” Coming from her, that was high praise. She still thought the color was “too much,” but she admitted it was fun, refreshing, and actually quite good.
That’s what I love about this drink. Yes, it’s bold. Yes, the name is playful and a little provocative. But underneath all that, it’s just a well-crafted tropical cocktail that brings people together and creates moments of joy. Whether you’re serving the full-strength version for a summer barbecue or the mocktail for a family gathering, this recipe is about celebration and connection.
My mom always taught me that knowing what goes into what we consume is the foundation of wellness. So I encourage you to use quality ingredients, measure thoughtfully, and most importantly drink responsibly. This isn’t an everyday drink. It’s for those special occasions when you want something memorable, something that makes people smile, something that tastes like vacation even when you’re in your own backyard.
Gather your ingredients, invite your friends over, and shake up something special. The Liquid Marijuana cocktail isn’t just about the drink itself it’s about the laughter, the conversations, and the memories you’ll create while sipping it.
Ready to try more colorful cocktail adventures? I share behind-the-scenes cocktail experiments, party hosting tips, and more feel-good recipes on my Facebook page. Come join our community I’d love to see your tropical creations!
Liquid Marijuana Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- 1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- 2. Pour in the Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Blue Curaçao, Malibu Coconut Rum, Midori Melon Liqueur, Triple Sec, Sweet and Sour Mix, and Pineapple Juice.
- 3. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until well chilled.
- 4. Strain the mixture into a highball or rocks glass filled with ice.
- 5. Garnish with pineapple slice, maraschino cherry, and/or fresh mint if desired.
- 6. Serve immediately and enjoy.
