How to Use Pandan in Cocktails: Flavour, Recipes & Tips

Pandan liqueur is the tasty, tropical gem that home mixologists can’t seem to get enough of. Bringing the sweet, nutty aroma of Southeast Asia to cocktails around the globe, the pandan plant is rooted in the rich culinary traditions of countries like Thailand and Indonesia.   

 Its signature vanilla-like essence, a beloved flavour for centuries, is now gaining prominence as a must-have ingredient in modern mixology. Whether stirred into tropical clinkers or mixed with creamy dessert cocktails, pandan liqueur is the ultimate way to level up your drinks game this year.  

What is pandan?

Pandan, also known as screw pine, is a tropical plant with long, fragrant leaves that thrive in Southeast Asia. Celebrated in the cuisines of Asian countries, these vibrant green leaves are a staple in desserts, savoury dishes, and beverages.  

The flavour profile of pandan is unique—aromatic and grassy with a nutty depth and subtle vanilla-like sweetness. It’s this distinctive taste that has earned pandan its nickname as the “vanilla of the East,” making it an irresistible addition to liqueurs and cocktails.  

Also see: Asian Cocktail Ingredients to Inspire Your Next Drink  

Homemade pandan liqueur recipe

Keen to make your own pandan liqueur at home? Here’s how.  

INGREDIENTS  

• 100 g fresh pandan leaves, chopped
• 50 g dried pandan leaves, chopped
• 750 ml 60% neutral grain liquor (or any neutral alcohol like vodka)
• 500 g white sugar (adjust for sweetness)

METHOD  

1. Add the chopped pandan leaves, dried pandan leaves, and sugar to a clean, airtight jar.
2. Pour in the neutral liquor and seal the jar tightly.
3. Shake the jar thoroughly to combine the ingredients.
4. Let the mixture infuse for at least 48 hours, shaking occasionally to enhance the flavour.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the leaves.
6. Transfer the liqueur to a clean bottle and store your homemade pandan liqueur in a cool, dark place for up to three months.

In the UK, pandan is available in various forms to suit your culinary needs. Fresh pandan leaves can be found in Asian supermarkets, particularly those specialising in Southeast Asian products. These stores often stock fresh leaves in the produce section, while dried leaves and pandan essence may be available in the pantry or baking aisles. Additionally, online retailers offer a range of pandan products, including fresh leaves, dried leaves, and extracts, providing convenient delivery options across the UK.  

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How to make pandan syrup at home

Making your own cocktail syrups is a breeze and allows you to control the intensity of your drink ingredients. Here is our go-to pandan syrup recipe:   

INGREDIENTS   

• 4–5 fresh pandan leaves (or 2 teaspoons of powdered pandan or 1 tablespoon of dried pandan)   

• 1 cup of sugar   

• 1 cup of water   

METHOD   

1. Wash and cut the pandan leaves into smaller pieces for easier handling.   
2. Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.   
3. Add the pandan leaves (or powdered/dried pandan) to the saucepan.   
4. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to infuse the syrup with pandan’s signature aroma.   
5. Remove from heat, let it cool, then strain the syrup into a clean bottle or jar.   
6. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.   

Read next: 10 Pandan Cocktails that Celebrate Asian Flavours  

Pandan liqueur drink recipes

1. Pandan Mai Tai

Give the classic Mai Tai a tropical twist with the rich, nutty essence of pandan. In a shaker filled with ice, combine 30 ml Appleton Estate 8-Year-Old Reserve rum, 30 ml pandan liqueur, 20 ml fresh lime juice, 10 ml Grand Marnier, 10 ml orgeat syrup, and 10 ml sugar syrup. Shake until well-chilled, then strain into a glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for a fragrant finish.  

Inside scoop: Xavier Herit on All Things Grand Marnier  

2. Dark, Green & Stormy

A bold and aromatic twist on the classic Dark & Stormy, this cocktail uses pandan liqueur to infuse a touch of tropical sweetness. Fill a glass with ice and pour in 30 ml pandan liqueur, 90 ml ginger beer, and 15 ml lime juice (optional). Gently float 30 ml Appleton Estate Rum on top and finish with 2 dashes of bitters. Garnish with a lime wedge for a citrusy zest.  

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3. Pandan Latte

A decadent fusion of rich espresso and aromatic pandan, this latte is a cosy treat with a tropical edge. Pour 45 ml pandan liqueur into a heatproof glass. Steam 150 ml milk until frothy, then swirl and pour over the liqueur, allowing it to settle. Brew a double shot of espresso and gently pour it through the milk froth. Finish with an extra spoonful of froth for a velvety, layered effect. We love serving it in a coupe glass and garnishing it with some coffee beans and toffee shavings if we’re feeling extra.   

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4. Pandan Mezcal Paloma

Experience a bold blend of flavours with the Pandan Mezcal Paloma, where Southeast Asian ingredients meet Mexican tradition. Rim a highball glass with salt and fill it with ice cubes. Add 45 ml pandan liqueur, 30 ml Montelobos Mezcal, 60 ml grapefruit juice, and 15 ml lime juice. Stir gently and top with club soda. Garnish with a pandan leaf and a wedge of grapefruit for a bright and balanced finish.  

5. Pandan Toddy

Warm up with the comforting blend of pandan and bourbon in this tropical take on the classic Hot Toddy recipe. Begin by heating water until it simmers. In a heatproof glass or cup, combine 30 ml Wild Turkey 101 bourbon, 45 ml pandan liqueur, 15 ml lemon juice, and 15 ml honey syrup. Pour in 1/3 cup warm water and stir until the honey dissolves. 

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How to incorporate pandan liqueur in other cocktails

The unique pandan flavour profile opens up endless opportunities to reimagine classic cocktails. Add its vanilla-like nuttiness to a Piña Colada for a Southeast Asian twist or swap it for sugar syrup in an Old Fashioned for an earthy depth.   

Stir it into a classic Daiquiri or Margarita to elevate the citrusy zing with a subtle herbal undertone. Pair it with creamy coconut, zesty lime, or rich coffee for some island-style flair. Then, push out the boat and garnish your creations with pandan leaf twists, edible flowers, or toasted coconut flakes for that finishing touch. 

Now you know! Remember to tag us when you share your pandan liqueur creations on Instagram and sign up for our newsletter to receive the freshest drinkspiration delivered straight to your inbox. In the meantime, visit the Wray & Nephew and Appleton Estate websites for more tropical-themed cocktail recipes.