As a bartender, I believe that rum is one of the most versatile spirits out there. With its sweet, caramel-like flavor and smooth finish, it's no wonder that rum is a popular choice for many cocktails.
Whether you're sipping a classic daiquiri or enjoying a tropical piña colada, there's always a perfect rum-based cocktail for any occasion.
But what makes a great rum-based cocktail? Is it the quality of the rum, the balance of flavors, or the creativity of the recipe? As a seasoned bartender, I believe it's a combination of all three.
A great rum-based cocktail starts with a good quality rum, but it's the careful selection of complementary flavors and ingredients that make it truly exceptional.
From the rich and complex flavors of a dark rum to the subtle sweetness of a light rum, there's a vast array of options to choose from when creating a rum-based cocktail.
Whether you prefer a classic recipe or a modern twist, there's something for everyone in the world of rum cocktails.
So, whether you're planning a summer BBQ or a cozy night in, why not try your hand at mixing up a delicious rum-based cocktail?
With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find a recipe that suits your taste buds and impresses your guests. So grab a shaker, some ice, and your favorite rum, and let's get mixing!
1. Rosemary Tangerine Cooler
The Rosemary Tangerine Cooler is a delightful rum-based cocktail that combines the flavors of caramelized citrus and fragrant herbs. The tangerines are grilled with coarse sugar and rosemary, giving them a sweet and smoky flavor that is muddled with rum and ice in a cocktail shaker.
The cocktail has a strong citrus taste, with the rum adding a nice kick to the drink. The light caramel flavor from the grilled tangerines is a nice touch, making it a perfect drink for any season. The Rosemary Tangerine Cooler is a unique and refreshing cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
2. Bob Marley Drink
The Bob Marley Drink is a rum-based cocktail that is a perfect addition to any beach vacation or a fun-filled party. This colorful drink is layered with the colors of the Rastafari flag – red, yellow, and green – and has bright tropical flavors that are sure to please any crowd.
The fruity concoction is easy to make and does not require a blender, making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a tropical drink without the hassle of cleaning up. The Bob Marley Drink is a must-try for anyone who loves rum-based cocktails and wants to experience the Jamaican vibes.
3. Hibiscus Rum Punch
If you're looking for a festive and flavorful cocktail to serve at your next holiday party, the Hibiscus Rum Punch is a must-try. This cocktail is infused with warm winter spices like cinnamon, ginger, and clove, and features a homemade hibiscus concentrate that adds a unique and delicious flavor.
The pink peppercorn garnish adds a touch of elegance to this already impressive cocktail. Whether you're a fan of dark or white rum, this cocktail can be made with either and will still be just as delicious. The Hibiscus Rum Punch is the perfect way to impress your guests and add some Caribbean flair to your holiday celebrations.
4. Shark Bite
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make rum-based cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise? Look no further than the Shark Bite. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day, with its blend of coconut rum, pineapple juice, and blue curaçao. The splash of blue curaçao gives the drink its signature blue-green color, reminiscent of the ocean.
Squeeze in a bit of lime for a touch of tartness, and you have a drink that's both sweet and tangy. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic version, you can easily substitute lemon-lime soda and coconut extract for the rum. Whether you're lounging on the beach or just dreaming of a getaway, the Shark Bite is sure to satisfy.
5. Smoked Rumhattan
The "Smoked Rumhattan" is a rum-based cocktail featuring Barista Coffee Liqueur from Quebec, which is made using natural sugars from rums and Kona coffee. The liqueur has notes of toffee, chocolate, and maple, making it a perfect pairing for the Bigallet's China China Liqueur.
The cocktail is completed with El Dorado 3 Year Old Rum, a dash of Leyenda Mezcal for smokiness, and a garnish of Angostura Bitters and orange peel. The result is a spirit-forward cocktail that is easy to make and perfect for a Halloween party.
6. Hemingway Daiquiri
The Hemingway Daiquiri, also known as the Hemingway Special, is a rum-based cocktail that was inspired by a variation of the classic Daiquiri requested by the famous author Ernest Hemingway. This cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors, with a hint of grapefruit and maraschino liqueur.
It is a refreshing drink that is perfect for a warm summer day or a cozy night in. The Hemingway Daiquiri is a must-try for anyone who loves rum-based cocktails or wants to try something new and exciting. So, if you're looking for a delicious and unique cocktail to add to your repertoire, give the Hemingway Daiquiri a try!
7. Blueberry Mojitos
If you are looking for a refreshing and fruity rum cocktail to enjoy on a warm summer night, the Blueberry Mojito is a must-try. This cocktail takes the classic mojito recipe and adds a delicious blueberry twist, resulting in a drink that is both sweet and tangy. The blueberry simple syrup is the star of the show, adding a burst of fruity flavor to the drink.
The combination of fresh mint, lime, and white rum creates a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to impress. Whether you are making one or enough for a crowd, this cocktail is easy to make with basic ingredients. If you are a fan of mojitos or fruity rum cocktails, the Blueberry Mojito is definitely worth a try.
8. Jungle Bird Cocktail
The Jungle Bird Cocktail is a unique and delicious rum-based cocktail that is perfect for any summer occasion. This cocktail combines the sweetness of pineapple juice with the bitterness of Campari, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.
The addition of almond liqueur or simple syrup adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. The cocktail is finished off with a cherry and pineapple slice garnish, adding a touch of tropical flair. If you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful rum-based cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Jungle Bird Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
9. The Mary Pickford Cocktail
The Mary Pickford Cocktail is a classic rum-based cocktail that has stood the test of time. It is named after the famous actress Mary Pickford, who was known for her curls and her pioneering work in the film industry. This cocktail is a perfect blend of white rum, grenadine, pineapple juice, and maraschino liquor, which gives it a unique and refreshing taste.
It is a flirty yet elegant drink that is perfect for any occasion. The proportions of the ingredients are balanced just right, making it a perfect signature drink. The Mary Pickford Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good rum-based cocktail.
10. Chinese Fizz
If you're looking for a rum-based cocktail that is both elegant and balanced, the Chinese Fizz is definitely worth trying. With a subtle cherry flavor and a smooth finish, this cocktail is perfect for those who prefer understated drinks.
While the recipe calls for an orange wheel, you can use any citrus you prefer to create a dehydrated garnish. It's important to use brown rum rather than white to ensure that the flavors stand up to each other. If you're looking to switch up your cocktail game, the Chinese Fizz is definitely worth a try.
11. Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail
The Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail is a unique and flavorful rum-based drink that combines cold brew coffee, vanilla-flavored rum, and a rosemary simple syrup.
The addition of Bom Bom's Nilli Vanilli, made with rum, almond milk, and vanilla flavoring, adds a creamy and sweet element to the cocktail. The rosemary vanilla syrup adds a subtle herbal note that balances the sweetness of the drink. It's perfect for holiday parties or New Year's Eve celebrations.
12. Strawberry Coconut Daiquiri
The Strawberry Coconut Daiquiri is a delicious and refreshing rum-based frozen cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise. Made with a combination of sweet strawberries and creamy coconut cream, this cocktail is the perfect balance of fruity and creamy flavors.
The addition of rum gives it a slight kick, making it the perfect drink to sip on a hot summer day. Topped with shredded coconut and a strawberry garnish, this cocktail looks as good as it tastes. If you're looking for a fun and easy-to-make cocktail that will impress your guests, the Strawberry Coconut Daiquiri is definitely worth a try.
13. Dark Mint Dream Cocktail
The Dark Mint Dream Cocktail is a refreshing rum-based cocktail with a burst of minty freshness. Made with mint simple syrup, muddled fresh herbs, espresso, cream, white rum, and club soda, it's a delightful way to wet your whistle.
The white rum complements the flavors without overpowering them, and a garnish of sweet whipped cream and fresh mint adds a touch of indulgence. It's a must-try for those who love coffee cocktails with a refreshing twist.
14. Mai Tai With Passionfruit
If you're looking for a tropical and exotic rum-based cocktail, the Mai Tai with Passionfruit is a must-try. This cocktail is a perfect balance of different flavors, including lime, almond, clove, ginger, vanilla, and allspice.
The addition of falernum syrup adds a unique taste to the classic drink, guaranteeing a tropical feeling.
Despite containing a lot of alcohol, the Mai Tai with Passionfruit is incredibly delicious and well-balanced.
It's a perfect drink to enjoy on a hot summer day or to transport yourself to a tropical paradise.
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful rum-based cocktail, give the Mai Tai with Passionfruit a try.
It's definitely worth it!
15. Homemade Kahlua
Homemade Kahlua is a delicious coffee-flavored liqueur made from freshly brewed coffee, sugar, vanilla beans, and rum or vodka. It's smooth, creamy, and goes great with coffee or ice cream.
The homemade version takes a little effort to make, but the result is a perfect coffee-flavored liqueur that is excellent for sipping or mixing in many recipes. It's perfect for the holidays and can be used in any dessert recipes that call for Kahlua. If you're a fan of the White Russian cocktail, then you'll love the Homemade Kahlua.
16. Peking Cocktail
The Peking Cocktail is a refreshing rum-based drink with a subtle hint of anise flavor from Pernod liqueur. It's sweet, tart, and herbal, with dominant flavors of lemon and anise.
The addition of grenadine and vanilla creates a perfect balance. It pairs well with a variety of dishes and is perfect for any occasion. Try it if you're a fan of unique and refreshing rum-based cocktails.
17. The Westwood Wahine
"The Westwood Wahine" is a refreshing summer cocktail that combines the flavors of fresh mint, cinnamon simple syrup, POG, rum, bitters, and club soda. This lightened-up tiki-style drink is perfect for sipping outside or next to a pool.
The use of POG juice adds multiple fruit flavors without going overboard on the fruit juice, while the addition of a dash of bitters adds another layer of flavor. The fizz from the club soda makes it a refreshing and drinkable cooler, perfect for a hot summer day. If you're looking for a tasty and unique rum-based cocktail, "The Westwood Wahine" is definitely worth a try.
18. Blackberry and Peach Daiquiri
The Blackberry and Peach Daiquiri is a refreshing and delicious twist on the classic daiquiri recipe. The combination of ripe peaches and blackberries create a beautiful hue and a perfect balance of flavors that work together instead of competing with each other.
This cocktail is a great option for those who want to enjoy a fruity and refreshing drink without the overly sugary and artificial taste that is often associated with daiquiris. If you are looking for a new rum-based cocktail recipe to try, the Blackberry and Peach Daiquiri is definitely worth a shot.
19. The Knickerbocker
"The Knickerbocker" is a vintage rum-based cocktail that is making a comeback in the world of mixology. Dating back to 1905, this cocktail is a refreshing and pretty drink that is perfect for any occasion.
The Knickerbocker is a rum-based cocktail that is made with a blend of light and dark rums, giving it a unique flavor that is both sweet and tangy. This cocktail is perfect for those who love vintage drinks and are looking for something new to try. If you're a fan of rum-based cocktails, then "The Knickerbocker" is definitely worth a try.
20. Malibu Slush
If you're looking for a refreshing and tropical cocktail to cool off this summer, look no further than the Malibu Slush. This rum-based cocktail is made with just two ingredients and is perfect for sipping on a hot day. The recipe calls for freshly juiced fruit juice, with lychee being the preferred choice, but any juice that pairs well with Malibu rum will do.
The best part? You can make and freeze the juice ahead of time, ensuring you have a stockpile of slushies all summer long. So, kick back, relax, and enjoy this icy cold cocktail that will transport you straight to the tropics.
21. Pretty in Pink Punch
"Pretty in Pink Punch" is a refreshing and sweet rum-based cocktail that is perfect for summer entertaining. This frosty and tangy drink is a mix of pink lemonade and daiquiri concentrate, making it a crowd-pleaser at any party or gathering. The addition of white rum or vodka gives it a little kick, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a boozy summer drink.
The cocktail is easy to make with only four essential ingredients and can be garnished with fresh strawberries and raspberries. Overall, "Pretty in Pink Punch" is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a refreshing and delicious summer drink.
