Bushwacker
A decadent, creamy, and deceptively potent frozen cocktail that occupies a unique space between a tropical Piña Colada and a rich dessert-like Mudslide. Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands in 1975, this 'adult milkshake' harmoniously blends coffee, chocolate, and coconut flavors.
13%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
hurricane
Glass
History & Heritage
“The Bushwacker was invented in spring 1975 at the Ship's Store, Sapphire Pub in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands by bartender Angie Conigliaro. The suggestion came from bar manager Tom Brokamp, who envisioned a tropical take on a White Russian. The cocktail was named after an Afghan Hound named Bushwack, belonging to regular customers. The drink's journey to American icon began when Linda Taylor Murphy from Pensacola Beach's Sandshaker Lounge brought the concept to Florida, developing a rum-based version that became the signature drink of the Gulf Coast. The Flora-Bama Lounge further popularized it, leading to Bushwacker festivals and a "Bushwacker Trail" in Gulf Shores.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Combine all ingredients in a blender
Blend on high speed until completely smooth and thick, about 30 seconds
Pour into a chilled hurricane glass
Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg over the top
Optionally drizzle chocolate syrup inside glass before pouring
Glassware
Served in a chilled hurricane glass
Garnish
Freshly grated over the top
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use high-powered blender for perfectly smooth consistency
Pre-chill glassware to prevent premature melting
Cream of coconut is essential - not coconut cream
Serve immediately after blending for optimal texture
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Bushwacker.
The Floater
Add a shot of high-proof rum floated on top for extra potency.
Changes
Ice Cream Base
Use vanilla ice cream instead of milk for thicker, milkshake-like consistency.
Changes
Original Virgin Islands Version
The original recipe used vodka instead of rum.
Changes
Blonde Bushwacker
Omit dark liqueurs, use vanilla vodka and Frangelico for lighter color and nutty flavor.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Caribbean Espresso Martini
A tropical twist on the classic espresso martini, featuring rum instead of vodka for warm, molasses-rich complexity with coffee and vanilla notes.
Painkiller
Dark rum, pineapple, orange, and cream of coconut shaken over ice and dusted with nutmeg—the British Virgin Islands' signature sipper.
Mango Colada
A lush, tropical cocktail that represents a natural and sublime evolution of its famous parent, the Piña Colada, by introducing the rich, honeyed sweetness of mango.