Mary Pickford Cocktail Recipe

Rum is one of the main staples in any liquor cabinet. The options for mixing are near-endless. Even more, it is arguably the most American of spirits. Whisky was around for hundreds of years before was bourbon was distilled In America (via Bottleneck Management). Rum, on the other hand, came about due to the many sugar plantations in the West Indies, which would eventually be a part of the North America continent (via Britannica). Yet, the Mary Pickford cocktail is distinctly inspired by old-school Hollywood glamour. It's named after a silent film star, meaning it has its roots in the American movie industry (via Vanity Fair). 

This libation combines rum with the type of luxurious flavors one would easily associate with the sweet life. Recipe creator Christina Musgrave has put together this simple recipe for you to serve at your next swanky soiree, or even at an upcoming Oscar viewing party.

Mary Pickford was a true Hollywood legend in the silent film industry. Not only was she a successful actress in the early 1900s, but Pickford was a partner, along with her husband, silent film legend Douglas Fairbanks, Charlie Chaplin and D.W. Griffith, in the formation of United Artists film distribution company. The drink originates from Havana, Cuba, in honor of a time Pickford visited the country. That being said, Pickford likely wasn't in Cuba during the creation of the drink. Most likely, it was named after her in order attract American women to mainly male-centered prohibition bars (via Vanity Fair). Whatever the real story is, there are a couple undeniable facts — as Mix That Drink states, "Like its namesake, the Mary Pickford cocktail sneaks up on you." 

Of course, white rum is the first thing to pick up, since it is the central liquor to this cocktail. "I love Diplomático rum," gushes Musgrave. You also need a bottle of pineapple juice, a small bottle of grenadine, and finally maraschino cherry liqueur. 

"The rum and pineapple juice are key in this drink," explains Musgrave. "The flavors go so well together to create a bright and refreshing cocktail."

Fill a shaker with ice, then add the white rum, pineapple juice, grenadine, and maraschino liqueur. Cap it off, and shake for 15 seconds, combining all the ingredients until chilled. Then, pour the Mary Pickford cocktail into a cocktail glass.

"This cocktail is typically served in a coupe glass," explains Musgrave, "but you could also serve it in a martini glass if you want." All that's left is to sip, serve, and whip up a few more for your guests. Musgrave adds that "you could garnish with a pineapple wedge, maraschino cherry, or a dehydrated citrus slice."