If you’re looking for the ultimate Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe, you’ve just landed in the perfect spot. This vibrant, fruity cocktail has earned a legendary reputation among cruise-goers and tropical drink enthusiasts alike. Often enjoyed under the sun on a deck chair aboard a Carnival Cruise Line ship, the Kiss on the Lips drink combines sweet peach schnapps, rich mango purée or mix, crushed ice, and a beautiful swirl of grenadine to create a visually stunning and irresistibly delicious beverage.
But this drink isn’t only for travellers on the high seas. The great news is you can bring the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe right into your kitchen. Whether you’re planning a summer gathering, throwing a beach-themed party, or simply want to enjoy a little vacation-in-a-glass at home, this cocktail delivers the perfect tropical escape with every sip. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and suitable for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Kiss on the Lips drink—from its ingredients and preparation tips to creative garnish ideas and serving suggestions. We’ll also explore its cruise ship origins and provide pro-level hacks to elevate your version. Ready to sip your way to paradise? Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
1. What is the Kiss on the Lips Drink carnival recipe?
The Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe is a vibrant and tropical frozen cocktail that has become a signature favourite among Carnival Cruise guests. Known for its sweet, fruity flavour and beautiful layered appearance, this drink delivers a refreshing escape in every sip. If you’re looking to recreate the feel of a Caribbean vacation or cruise getaway right at home, this cocktail is the perfect choice.
This irresistible drink combines smooth peach schnapps, luscious mango purée or mango mix, and a colourful splash of grenadine, all blended with crushed ice for a slushy texture. The drink is often served in a chilled hurricane glass or tulip glass and garnished with a cherry or slice of mango, making it as beautiful to look at as it is to drink.
One of the reasons the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe is so popular is because it captures the carefree spirit of cruising with its tropical flavour profile and eye-catching colours. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and easy to customize with non-alcoholic or spicy variations.
Whether you first discovered this cocktail on a Carnival Cruise or you’re just now hearing about it, the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe offers a fun and flavorful way to celebrate summer, impress guests, or enjoy a little taste of paradise whenever you need a getaway.
2. History of the Kiss on the Lips Carnival Drink
The Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe rose to fame aboard Carnival Cruise Line, where it quickly became one of the most frequently ordered beverages. This tropical cocktail, loved for its sweet, fruity flavour and vibrant appearance, was initially part of Carnival’s signature drink menu, designed to capture the fun and relaxing spirit of a vacation at sea.
According to CruiseCritic, the Kiss on the Lips ranks among the top 5 most popular drinks served on Carnival ships, especially on warm-weather itineraries to the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and Mexico. Its bright layers of mango and grenadine make it not only tasty but also visually stunning—perfect for sharing on social media, which helped further fuel its popularity among travellers.
As the cruise experience grew in cultural significance, fans of the drink began requesting the Carnival Cruise drink recipes, especially the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe, so that they could replicate the tropical experience from the comfort of their homes. It quickly made its way into backyard summer parties, tropical-themed events, and poolside menus, thanks to its simplicity and crowd-pleasing taste.
Many bartenders and cruise mixologists credit the drink’s popularity to its approachability—it’s not overly strong, making it enjoyable for casual drinkers—and its Instagram-worthy presentation, with a dramatic swirl of red grenadine beneath the bright mango-orange hue. These factors, along with the emotional connection cruisers have to their vacation memories, have helped cement the Kiss on the Lips as more than just a cocktail—it’s a symbol of relaxation, celebration, and fun.
Today, the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe is considered a modern classic in the realm of tropical cocktails. Whether enjoyed on deck at sea or blended up in a home kitchen, this drink remains a nostalgic nod to ocean breezes, sunny skies, and unforgettable travel experiences.
3. Ingredients Overview
To make the perfect kiss on the lips carnival drink recipe, you’ll need the following:
- 1 oz Peach Schnapps
- 2 oz Mango Mix or Frozen Mango Chunks
- Splash of Grenadine
- Ice (crushed)
- Optional: Fresh mango or cherry for garnish
Note: Brands like Daily’s or Island Oasis offer high-quality mango mix often used on cruises.
For those seeking a more premium flavour, consider using fresh mango puree or blending mango chunks with a splash of mango nectar.
4. Step-by-Step Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe
Here’s a foolproof method to recreate the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe at home:
- Add Ingredients to Blender: Pour 1 oz of peach schnapps and 2 oz of mango mix into a blender.
- Add Ice: Add about 1 cup of crushed ice to achieve a slushy consistency.
- Blend: Blend until smooth and thick.
- Add Grenadine: Pour a splash of grenadine down the side of the glass to create a layered sunset effect.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the slush into the glass and garnish with a cherry or a slice of mango.
5. Nutrition Facts and Serving Sizes
NutrientAmount (per serving)
Calories 180-220 kcal
Carbohydrates 30g
Sugar 25g
Alcohol 1 oz (14g ethanol)
Based on standard ingredient quantities. Variations may affect the nutrition content.
6. Tips to Customize Your Kiss on the Lips Drink
- Add Coconut Rum for a tropical twist.
- Use fresh fruit instead of pre-mixed for a cleaner taste.
- Layered Presentation: Freeze the mango layer first and then top with grenadine for a layered look.
- Frozen Strawberries can be added for a more berry-forward flavour.
- Use flavoured schnapps like raspberry or melon for a unique spin.
7. Benefits of Making This Drink at Home
- Cost-Effective: Cheaper than ordering it on a cruise
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness, alcohol, and texture to taste
- Great for Entertaining: Impress guests with a professional-level tropical cocktail
- Control Ingredients: Use organic or low-sugar options
- Fun Activity: A great DIY project for cocktail lovers
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-blending: This can make the drink watery.
- Too Much Grenadine Can overpower the mango flavour.
- Using Icy Mango Chunks Alone: This can make the drink too thick without added liquid.
- Incorrect Glassware: A hurricane glass enhances the presentation and drinking experience.
- Skipping Garnish: Reduces the tropical flair of the drink.
9. Best Occasions to Serve This Drink
- Pool Parties
- Cruise-Themed Nights
- Summer BBQs
- Birthday Celebrations
- Bachelorette Parties
- Beach Bonfires
- Holiday Staycations
10. Pairing Ideas: Food That Goes with It
Pair your Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe with the following:
- Coconut Shrimp
- Tropical fruit skewers
- Grilled chicken with pineapple salsa
- Mango sorbet
- Chips with mango salsa
- Spicy fish tacos
- Light citrus salads
11. Carnival Cruise Kiss on the Lips Drink Recipe: How It Differs
The Carnival Cruise Kiss on the Lips Drink Recipe stands out from typical tropical cocktails thanks to its simplicity, smooth texture, and vibrant presentation. While many tropical drinks rely on complex mixes of rum, juices, and creams, this drink keeps things easy with just a few ingredients—yet still delivers an unforgettable flavour that screams vacation.
1. Simplicity Meets Flavor
Unlike elaborate cocktails that require a full bar setup, the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe only calls for three core ingredients: peach schnapps, mango mix, and grenadine. This simplicity allows it to be easily recreated at home without sacrificing taste. The result is a smooth, slushy drink that blends sweet peach with rich mango and a hint of tart cherry from the grenadine.
2. A Frozen Favorite
While other cruise ship cocktails like the Mai Tai or Rum Runner are typically shaken over ice or served straight up, the Carnival Cruise Kiss on the Lips Drink Recipe is always served frozen—blended until it reaches a slushy, icy consistency. This frozen format makes it especially refreshing on hot, sunny days at sea or poolside at home.
3. Signature Presentation
One of the defining features of the drink is its visual appeal. The drink is typically poured into a hurricane glass or tall cocktail glass, with grenadine added last to create a beautiful red-to-orange gradient effect. Many Carnival bartenders top it with a maraschino cherry or a slice of mango or peach for extra flair—making it highly photogenic and ideal for sharing on social media.
4. Customizable Across Ships
Though the base recipe is consistent, the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe may vary slightly between ships. Some bartenders add a splash of orange juice or use real mango purée instead of a pre-made mix, especially when local fruits are available at the port. This adds a regional twist to the flavour, depending on where your cruise is sailing.
5. Lower Alcohol Content
Another unique aspect is its relatively low alcohol content. With just one ounce of peach schnapps (usually around 15–20% ABV), the cocktail is mild and approachable, making it ideal for guests who want to enjoy a drink without becoming too tipsy. This also makes it a popular choice for daytime sipping during long excursions or lounging by the pool.
6. Vacation Nostalgia in a Glass
The Carnival Cruise Kiss on the Lips Drink Recipe isn’t just a beverage—it’s a nostalgic souvenir for many cruisers. Its fruity flavour and tropical aroma immediately bring back memories of sunny decks, ocean breezes, and carefree fun. That emotional connection is part of what makes this drink so beloved and frequently requested, both onboard and off.
12. Expert Tips from Bartenders
- Chill Your Glass: This keeps the slush from melting too quickly.
- Use Quality Peach Schnapps, Like DeKuyper or Archers.
- Garnish Creatively: Use tropical fruit, herbs, or fun straws.
- Keep Proportions Consistent: For balance in taste and texture.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust sweetness based on the mango mix used.
13. Tools You’ll Need
- Blender (High-speed preferred)
- Measuring jigger
- Hurricane or tall glass
- Bar spoon (for grenadine layering)
- Cocktail umbrella (optional)
- Ice crusher (if not using bagged crushed ice)
14. Alcohol-Free Variation for Kids
To make a virgin version:
- Replace peach schnapps with peach nectar
- Add more mango juice
- Follow the same steps
- Garnish the same way to keep it fun
- Add a splash of soda water or Sprite for fizz
15. Best Presentation and Garnish Ideas
- Use Edible Flowers for a tropical aesthetic
- Add Sugar Rim: Dip the glass rim in lime juice, then sugar
- Use Paper Straws with tropical designs
- Garnish with a Fruit Skewer featuring mango, strawberry, and pineapple
- Serve in a Pineapple Shell for the extra wow factor
16. How to Host a Kiss on the Lips Cocktail Party
- Theme: Caribbean or cruise-themed décor
- Setup: Tropical playlist, leis, and tiki torches
- Drink Station: DIY blender bar with ingredients
- Food Pairing Table: Include light and tropical snacks
- Dress Code: Encourage guests to wear cruise attire
17. Comparing Kiss on the Lips to Other Cruise Cocktails
Drink NameKey FlavorsTypeAlcohol Base
Kiss on the Lips Mango, peach, grenadine Frozen Peach schnapps
Miami Vice Strawberry, piña colada Layered Rum
Bahama Mama Coconut, orange, cherry Iced Dark rum
Fun Ship Special Sweet citrus, rum Blended Rum, vodka
18. Seasonal Variations of the Recipe
Spring: Add fresh strawberries and mint
Summer: Add passionfruit puree for an extra tropical flavour
Fall: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for spice
Winter: Try blending with coconut cream for a creamier base
19. Conclusion: Why the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe Is a Must-Try
The Kiss on the Lips drink Carnival recipe brings a vibrant burst of tropical flavour that’s both nostalgic and endlessly refreshing. Popularized on Carnival Cruise Line ships, this fruity cocktail captures the essence of a carefree vacation and the relaxing spirit of the tropics. Whether you’re an avid cruiser reminiscing about your time at sea or someone simply looking to bring a taste of island life into your home, the Kiss on the Lips drink Carnival recipe offers a perfect escape in every sip.
Blending peach schnapps, mango mix (or fresh mango), and a swirl of grenadine over crushed ice, this colourful drink is not only delicious but visually stunning. Served traditionally in hurricane glass with a cherry garnish, it makes a picture-perfect cocktail for poolside parties, beach-themed gatherings, or backyard barbecues. One of the best parts? It’s incredibly easy to customize. You can make it stronger, lighter, or even non-alcoholic, depending on your preferences, making it ideal for all types of guests.
No matter the occasion, the Kiss on the Lips drink Carnival recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of cocktail that instantly transports you to sunny skies, sea breezes, and unforgettable cruise memories—all from the comfort of home.
For more great tropical drink ideas, check out this Ultimate Guide to Cruise Cocktails.
Ultimate FAQ: Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe
The Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe is a fan-favourite cocktail on Carnival Cruises and a summertime staple at tropical-themed parties. It’s fruity, refreshing, and visually stunning. Below is your in-depth guide to everything you ever wanted to know about this delicious drink—from ingredients and substitutions to creative twists, preparation tips, and more.
1. What is the original Kiss on the Lips drink Carnival recipe?
The traditional Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe served on Carnival Cruises includes:
- 1 oz peach schnapps
- 4–6 oz mango mix (like mango daiquiri mix or mango puree)
- Crushed ice
- Splash of grenadine
It’s blended into a slushy consistency and served in a hurricane glass, often garnished with a cherry or mango slice. The grenadine is typically drizzled last, creating a beautiful red swirl that resembles a sunset.
2. Can I make the Kiss on the Lips drink non-alcoholic?
Absolutely! Creating a mocktail version is very simple. Replace the peach schnapps with:
- Peach nectar
- Peach juice
- Peach-flavored soda (for fizz)
This version is kid-friendly and great for guests avoiding alcohol. You can still use mango mix and grenadine for the same vibrant look and taste.
3. What kind of glassware should I use?
The ideal choice is a hurricane glass, which enhances the tropical look and can hold the right volume of slush and garnish. Alternatives include:
- Mason jars (rustic charm)
- Tulip glasses (elegant)
- Highball or Collins glasses (if space is tight)
- Even plastic party cups work well for outdoor events.
4. What’s the difference between a Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe and other tropical cocktails?
The Kiss on the Lips is:
- It is simpler than a Mai Tai or Piña Colada
- It has a strong mango-peach flavor
- Known for its two-tone presentation with the grenadine
- Blended, not shaken or stirred
- Typically lower in alcohol content
It’s essentially a sweet, frozen, fruity drink—easy to make and even more straightforward to enjoy.
5. Can I use real mango instead of a mango mix?
Yes—and it’s better in terms of flavour and nutrition. Blend:
- 1 cup ripe mango chunks
- A bit of peach nectar, mango juice, or simple syrup to loosen the puree
This method gives you a fresher, less sugary version. You can even freeze fresh mango in advance for a colder, creamier blend.
6. Is the Carnival Cruise Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe the same across all ships?
Carnival Cruise Line uses a standardized recipe, but variations may occur depending on:
- Local ingredient availability at port stops
- Bartender interpretation
- Brand substitutions (e.g., different schnapps or mango bases)
Some bartenders may even add a rum floater or slightly adjust ratios.
7. How do I make the drink thicker or thinner?
For a thicker, more frozen version:
- Use more crushed ice
- Blend with frozen mango chunks
- Use less juice or mix
To thin it out:
- Add more mango juice or water
- Use less ice
You can also adjust it based on how quickly you want it to melt (thicker for slower sipping).
8. Is the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe gluten-free?
Generally, yes. Most versions are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels:
- Some flavoured schnapps may include grain-based alcohol
- Read the label on mango mix and grenadine for hidden additives
For an entirely gluten-free version, stick with natural fruit purées and certified gluten-free schnapps like Archers.
9. Can I use frozen mango instead of mango mix?
Definitely! Frozen mango:
- It is often healthier and fresher
- Adds to the slushy consistency
- It can be sweetened naturally with juice instead of sugar-heavy mixers
Just toss it in the blender with peach schnapps and a splash of juice.
10. What type of schnapps is best for this drink?
Peach schnapps are essential. Some top picks:
- DeKuyper Peach Schnapps – widely used on cruises
- Archers Peach Schnapps – smoother, great for international versions
- Mr. Boston or other budget brands work in a pinch
You could also experiment with tropical schnapps like mango, but peach is the core flavour.
11. Can I prepare this drink in large batches?
Yes! It’s perfect for parties. Multiply the ingredients, blend in a large pitcher or batch blender, and store:
- In an airtight container in the freezer
- Or in a cooler with ice packs for travel
Before serving, give it a good stir or quick re-blend to restore the texture.
12. How much alcohol is in one serving?
A single drink has about 1 oz of peach schnapps, with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 15–20%. That equates to:
- Roughly 0.5 to 0.6 standard drinks
- Making it a lighter cocktail, ideal for sipping during the day
If you want it stronger, you can add:
- A splash of white rum
- Or use higher-proof schnapps
13. Can I pre-make this drink for a party?
Yes! Pre-blend the drink and store it in:
- Pitchers in the fridge for short-term use
- Freezer-safe containers if prepping days in advance
A clever tip: Freeze the mix in ice cube trays. Just blend the cubes when guests arrive for a fresh slushy without watering it down.
14. Is there caffeine in this drink?
No. There are no caffeinated ingredients in the original recipe. However:
- If you add soda like peach-flavoured cola or energy drinks, caffeine may be introduced
- Always check labels if you’re caffeine-sensitive
15. When is the best time to serve the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe?
Ideal for:
- Summer BBQs and pool parties
- Tropical-themed nights
- Cruise or beach vacation send-offs
- Bridal showers or baby showers (especially the mocktail version)
- Sunday brunches as a fun alternative to mimosas
It’s colourful, easy to sip, and great for any occasion that calls for a vacation vibe.
16. Can I make a spicy version of the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe?
Yes, spice lovers can jazz it up with:
- A dash of cayenne
- A few drops of hot honey
- Infused spicy peach schnapps (available at specialty stores)
- Rim the glass with Tajin or chilli-lime salt
Spicy-sweet cocktails are trending, and this combo works surprisingly well.
17. Is there a dairy-free version of this drink?
The original version is already dairy-free. But if you want to make it creamy, consider:
- Coconut cream or almond milk
- Oat milk for a neutral, creamy addition
Just don’t add dairy-based ice cream or cream liqueurs if you’re avoiding lactose.
18. What garnishes go best with Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe?
Make it Insta-worthy with:
- Maraschino cherry (classic)
- Fresh mango or peach slices
- Pineapple wedges
- Mint sprigs
- Edible flowers like orchids or nasturtiums
Rim the glass with sugar or Tajin for an extra festive touch.
19. Can I turn this drink into a popsicle or frozen dessert?
Yes! Pour the mixture into:
- Popsicle moulds for a frozen treat
- Mini cups with wooden sticks
- Frozen slush cups for adult or kid-friendly parties favour
If using alcohol, it will freeze more slowly or require less schnapps to stay solid.
20. Why is theKiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe so popular on Carnival Cruises?
It’s popular because it’s:
- Visually stunning with layered colour
- Refreshing and fruity
- Simple to sip—not too boozy or intense
- Easy to customize for different palates
- An instant vacation-in-a-glass feeling
It’s often the first drink people order on embarkation day!
21. Can I create a layered version like on the cruise?
Yes! For a two-tone effect:
- Blend the mango and schnapps mix with ice and pour into the glass
- Slowly pour grenadine down the inside edge
- It will sink to the bottom and create a layered “sunset” look
Tilt the glass slightly or pour over the back of a spoon for best results.
22. Are there other fun variations of the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe?
bsolutely! The Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe is not only delicious as-is, but it also serves as a fantastic base for creative cocktail experimentation. Whether you’re looking to adjust the flavour, boost the alcohol content, or tailor it to a special occasion, there are plenty of playful ways to remix this tropical classic.
Here are some exciting variations to try:
Strawberry Kiss
- How to make it: Replace the mango mix with strawberry daiquiri mix or add a handful of fresh or frozen strawberries before blending.
- Flavour profile: This version brings a sweeter and slightly tart twist, perfect for berry lovers.
- Why it works: Strawberries and peach schnapps pair beautifully, and the red hue enhances the drink’s visual appeal.
Sunset Kiss
- How to make it: Prepare the standard recipe, then float 1 oz of dark rum on top.
- Flavour profile: Richer and bolder, with deeper molasses notes from the rum.
- Why it works: The layered effect resembles a tropical sunset, making it perfect for a golden hour sipping.
Frozen Bellini Kiss
- How to make it: Blend the peach schnapps and mango mix, then top with chilled prosecco or sparkling wine instead of grenadine.
- Flavour profile: Light, bubbly, and elegant—ideal for brunches and celebrations.
- Why it works: Inspired by the Bellini, this variation elevates the Kiss on the Lips into a sparkling cocktail.
Spicy Peach Kiss
- How to make it: Add a splash of jalapeño syrup or muddle a small slice of fresh chilli before blending.
- Flavour profile: Sweet heat with a kick—great for spice lovers and adventurous palates.
- Why it works: The tropical sweetness balances the heat, creating a bold and refreshing twist.
Creamy Coconut Kiss
- How to make it: Add 1 oz of coconut cream or coconut milk to the blender with the original ingredients.
- Flavour profile: Creamy, rich, and tropical with a hint of island-style decadence.
- Why it works: Coconut adds depth and creaminess, transforming the drink into a frozen dessert cocktail.
These playful spins on the Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe make it incredibly versatile and customizable for any party, season, or mood. Whether you go spicy, sparkling, creamy, or fruity, each variation keeps the tropical soul of the original while adding a signature twist.
23. How can I make it lower in sugar?
Health-conscious version tips:
- Use real fruit (mango and peach)
- Skip syrupy mixes
- Use sugar-free grenadine or pomegranate juice
- Add water or soda water to lighten
24. Can kids enjoy a version of this drink at parties?
Yes—just use:
- Peach nectar or juice
- Mango smoothie base
- Grenadine for colour
- Crushed ice
Serve in a fun glass with an umbrella or a silly straw.
25. Where can I find the best mango or peach mixers?
Look for:
- Barsmith or Finest Call mango puree
- Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods for all-natural fruit nectars
- Amazon or specialty beverage sites
References for Kiss on the Lips Drink Carnival Recipe
- Carnival Cruise Official Drink Recipes – The official Carnival Cruise blog featuring authentic drink recipes, including Kiss on the Lips.
- CruiseCritic – Top Carnival Cruise Drinks – A comprehensive guide and reviews of popular Carnival Cruise drinks and cocktails.
- The Spruce Eats – Tropical Cocktail Recipes – A detailed collection of tropical and cruise-inspired cocktail recipes with tips and variations.
- white-lotus-energy-drink-recipes
- otus-energy-drink-recipes
kiss on the lips drink carnival recipe
Equipment
- Blender
- Tall glass
- Straw
Ingredients
- 1 oz Peach Schnapps
- 4 oz Mango purée or frozen mango + splash of juice
- 1 cup Ice
- 1 tbsp Grenadine
Instructions
- Blend peach schnapps, mango purée, and ice until smooth.
- Pour into a glass.
- Slowly add grenadine — it will sink for a layered look.
- Add a straw and enjoy!
Notes
Cheers, and happy sipping! 🍹
