The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and the smell of freshly cut grass is in the air. It can only mean one thing: summer is here!
And what better way to celebrate than with a refreshing drink in hand? Rum cocktails are the perfect addition to any summer gathering, whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard BBQ.
Rum is a versatile spirit that can be mixed with a variety of ingredients to create a range of flavors and textures. From sweet to spicy, there's a rum cocktail for every taste preference.
And with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose which one to try first. That's why we've put together a list of the best summer rum cocktail recipes that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your thirst.
But before we dive into the recipes, let's talk about what makes a great summer cocktail. First and foremost, it should be refreshing and easy to drink. You don't want something heavy or overly sweet that will leave you feeling weighed down in the heat.
It should also be visually appealing, with bright colors and garnishes that make it feel like a treat for the eyes as well as the taste buds. And finally, it should be easy to make, with simple ingredients and minimal prep time. After all, you don't want to spend all day in the kitchen when you could be soaking up the sun.
So, whether you're a seasoned bartender or a novice mixologist, these summer rum cocktail recipes are sure to impress.
From classic daiquiris to fruity punches, there's something for everyone on this list. So grab your shaker and let's get mixing!
1. Cruel Summer Cocktail
The "Cruel Summer Cocktail" is a refreshing and fruity drink that is perfect for beating the heat during the summer months. Made with white rum, coconut sparkling water, lemon juice, and strawberry syrup, this cocktail is light on alcohol and low in sweetness, making it a great option for sipping in the hot weather.
The coconut flavor gives it a tropical vibe, while the hints of sweetness make it easy on the taste buds. Overall, this cocktail is a simple yet delicious way to cool down on a scorching summer day.
2. Winter Sunshine Rum Cocktail
The Winter Sunshine Rum Cocktail is a refreshing twist on a classic Piña Colada. Made with Malibu Rum, coconut milk, and orange juice, this cocktail is perfect for those who want to escape the winter blues and feel like they're on a tropical beach.
The coconut milk gives the drink a creamy texture, while the orange juice adds a burst of citrus flavor. The cocktail is served in a coconut-rimmed glass, making it feel even more like a tropical vacation. If you're looking for a summer rum cocktail that will transport you to a sunny paradise, the Winter Sunshine Rum Cocktail is a must-try.
3. Blueberry Mojitos
If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make rum cocktail to enjoy during the hot summer days, then Blueberry Mojitos might just be what you need. This classic mojito recipe is elevated with the addition of fresh blueberries, which give the cocktail a fruity and slightly sweet flavor.
The mint adds a refreshing touch, while the white rum and club soda provide a fizzy kick. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon or for serving at a summer party. So, why not give Blueberry Mojitos a try and see for yourself why they're a beloved summer tradition?
4. Rum Sunset Cocktail
The Rum Sunset Cocktail is a simple yet stunning drink that is perfect for any summer celebration. Made with just three ingredients – orange juice, rum, and grenadine – this cocktail is easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
Garnished with a slice of lime, the Rum Sunset Cocktail is a beautiful shade of red and orange, reminiscent of a summer sunset. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy on a hot day, the Rum Sunset Cocktail is a must-try. So why not mix up a batch and raise a glass to the summer season?
5. Rum Punch
Rum Punch is a classic Caribbean cocktail that is perfect for summer parties and hot days by the pool. This fruity mixed drink is made with rum, lime juice, and grenadine syrup, giving it a tropical and refreshing taste that will transport you to a white sand beach in the Caribbean.
What sets Jamaica's version apart is the heavy use of grenadine syrup and the addition of lime juice, which adds a tangy twist to the sweet and fruity flavors. If you're looking for a quick and delicious cocktail to serve at your next summer gathering, Rum Punch is a must-try. So, grab some ice, mix up a batch, and enjoy the taste of summer in a glass!
6. Watermelon Mojitos
The Watermelon Mojito is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic mojito. Made with fresh watermelon juice, white rum, lime juice, and mint, this cocktail is the perfect drink to cool down on a hot summer day.
The sweetness of the watermelon perfectly balances the tartness of the lime juice, while the mint adds a refreshing herbal note. This cocktail is easy to make and can be served individually or in a pitcher for a crowd. If you're looking for a new summer cocktail to try, the Watermelon Mojito is definitely worth a sip!
7. Blackberry Pineapple Rum Cocktail
The Blackberry Pineapple Rum Cocktail is a perfect blend of tropical flavors that will transport you to a sunny beach. The cocktail gets its deep red-purplish hue from the blackberry syrup, which is a luxurious mixture of cooked blackberries, water, and sugar. The Mount Gay Rum's Eclipse, which is quite fragrant and smells like warm vanilla beans, adds a nice rounded sweetness to the drink.
The combination of pineapple juice, lime juice, and rum gives this cocktail a tropical-tiki feel. The cocktail is lively, refreshing, and not very sweet, making it a perfect summer drink. You can easily scale the recipe to serve a large crowd. Overall, the Blackberry Pineapple Rum Cocktail is a must-try summer cocktail that will leave you wanting more.
8. Grapefruit Rum Cocktail
The Grapefruit Rum Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious drink bursting with tropical flavors and a beautiful pinkish-orange color. Made with real fruit juice, fresh mint leaves, and club soda, it's a fun and citrusy alternative to a basic mojito.
The juicy grapefruit slices and crushed ice add to the overall experience of this drink, making it a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and boozy summer cocktail.
9. Blueberry Mojito
The Blueberry Mojito is a refreshing and delicious cocktail that is perfect for a lazy summer afternoon. This cocktail features the sweetness of blueberries, the tartness of limes, and a refreshing splash of rum. The combination of these flavors creates a drink that will sweep you away like a cool island breeze.
This cocktail is perfect for those who love bright and colorful drinks, and it pairs well with other summer favorites like the Blue Lagoon Cocktail and the Bob Marley drink. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make summer cocktail, then the Blueberry Mojito is definitely worth a try.
10. Strawberry Mojito
The Strawberry Mojito is a must-try summer cocktail for rum lovers. This classic Cuban drink is made with fresh strawberries, mint, lime, and your choice of white rum, cachaça, or dark rum. The addition of strawberries adds a sweet and fruity twist to the traditional mojito, making it the perfect refreshing drink for a warm summer evening.
The zesty lime and herbaceous mint flavors perfectly complement the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a well-balanced and delicious cocktail. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or just looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy on the patio, the Strawberry Mojito is sure to impress. So grab your favorite rum and give this easy summer cocktail recipe a try!
11. Mojito
The Mojito is a classic Cuban cocktail that has become a summer staple. This refreshing drink is made with rum, fresh lime juice, mint leaves, and club soda. It's the perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a hint of mint that makes it incredibly refreshing on a hot summer day.
The Mojito is a great choice for anyone who loves a classic cocktail that's easy to make and always delicious. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard BBQ, the Mojito is sure to be a hit with your guests. So why not give it a try and see what all the fuss is about?
12. Tropical Coconut Rum Cocktail
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with the refreshing and delicious Tropical Coconut Rum Cocktail. Served in a coconut shell, this cocktail is made with coconut rum and a variety of mixers, including cream of coconut, orange juice, pineapple juice, club soda, and passion fruit juice.
Perfect for any summer gathering, this cocktail is sure to please any palate and is a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of the tropics.
13. Pineapple and Orange Coconut Rum Cocktail
The Pineapple and Orange Coconut Rum Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious drink that is perfect for the summer. With just three ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and will transport you to a tropical paradise with its combination of pineapple, orange, and coconut flavors. The sweetness of the pineapple and orange juices is perfectly balanced by the subtle kick of the coconut rum, making for a truly out-of-this-world delicious drink.
Add some fresh slices of pineapple and orange to the rim of your glass, and you'll feel like you're sipping on this cocktail on a beach somewhere. If you're looking for a drink that will make you feel like you're on vacation, the Pineapple and Orange Coconut Rum Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
14. Drunken Monkey Rum Cocktail
The Drunken Monkey Rum Cocktail is a fruity tiki drink that will transport you to the Caribbean with just one sip. This potent cocktail was discovered on a cruise and has a backstory that makes it all the more intriguing. The recipe includes spiced rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, and grenadine, making for a vibrant and refreshing drink that is perfect for summer.
It's important to note that this cocktail is not for the faint of heart – it packs a punch and can easily get you in trouble if you're not careful. But for those who are up for a boozy adventure, the Drunken Monkey is a must-try. With its tropical flavors and potent kick, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering.
15. Raspberry Daiquiri
The Raspberry Daiquiri is a refreshing and fruity summer cocktail that is perfect for those who love a light rum drink with a berry punch. It is a part of a larger collection of cocktails that are perfect for the summer season. The cocktail is made with fresh raspberries that give it an intense berry flavor.
The drink is easy to make and is perfect for those who want to enjoy a refreshing drink on a hot summer day. If you love the Raspberry Daiquiri, you may also enjoy other fruity summer cocktails that are perfect for the season. So, if you're looking for a delicious and refreshing summer cocktail, be sure to give the Raspberry Daiquiri a try!
16. Beach Blossom Rum Cocktail
The Beach Blossom Rum Cocktail is a fruity and floral concoction that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. Made with white rum, coconut, guava, pineapple, citrus, and a touch of orange flower water, this pink drink is both sweet and tart.
The use of fresh pineapple juice and cream of coconut elevates the flavor profile of this cocktail, making it a step above your typical tropical drink. The addition of guava syrup not only adds a beautiful pink color but also gives the cocktail an authentic guava flavor. If you're a fan of classic summer cocktails like the Pina Colada, you'll definitely want to give the Beach Blossom a try.
17. Strawberry Coconut Cream Rum Cocktail
Looking for a refreshing and delicious rum cocktail to enjoy this summer? Look no further than the Strawberry Coconut Cream Rum Cocktail! This cocktail is inspired by the popular Starbucks Pink Drink, and features a blend of coconut rum, fresh strawberries, and sparkling water.
The result is a light and refreshing cocktail that's perfect for sipping by the pool or enjoying after dinner. The addition of freeze-dried strawberries adds a pop of color and flavor, while the foam from the sparkling water adds a fun and playful touch. If you're a fan of fruity and tropical cocktails, the Strawberry Coconut Cream Rum Cocktail is definitely worth trying this summer!
18. Rum and Coke
Rum and Coke is a classic cocktail made with rum and Coca-Cola. It's a simple yet refreshing drink that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. The type of rum used can greatly impact the flavor, with white rum being the most common.
The ratio of rum to Coke is important, with a 1:2.5 ratio being the most balanced. Using Mexican Coke can enhance the flavor. It's a perfect summer drink for any gathering.
19. Frozen Raspberry Daiquiri
The Frozen Raspberry Daiquiri is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and fruity rum cocktail this summer. Made with fresh squeezed lime juice and a light aged rum, this cocktail is blended with raspberry syrup and ice to create a smooth and creamy texture.
The gorgeous pink color and the addition of fresh raspberries (optional) make it a visually appealing drink as well. The sweet and tart flavors of this daiquiri make it a perfect choice for a hot summer day. Trust us, you won't be disappointed with this fruity and delicious cocktail.
20. Mermaid Rum Punch
If you're looking for a fun and refreshing summer cocktail, the Mermaid Rum Punch is a must-try. This ocean blue drink is a tropical blend of frozen lemonade, coconut, white rum, and banana, with a splash of Blue Curacao liqueur to give it a beautiful blue hue.
It's perfect for sipping by the pool or at the beach, and is sure to transport you to a tropical paradise. The cocktail is easy to make and can be served in pitchers for a party or girl's day out. If you're a fan of piña coladas, you'll love this frozen drink. So, if you want to add a little magic to your summer, give the Mermaid Rum Punch a try.
21. Classic Mojito
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make summer cocktail? Look no further than the Classic Mojito! This traditional Cuban highball is the perfect combination of herbaceous mint, sour lime, and sweetness, making it the ultimate thirst quencher on a hot day. Made with white rum, fresh mint, lime juice, sugar, and soda water, the Classic Mojito is a simple yet delicious drink that's perfect for any occasion.
Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and keep you cool all summer long. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why the Classic Mojito is one of the best summer rum cocktails out there?
22. Dark and Stormy Rum Cocktail
The Dark and Stormy Rum Cocktail is a refreshing and bold summer drink made with black rum and ginger beer. It has an interesting origin story from Bermuda and is similar to a Moscow Mule, but with a rum twist.
The combination of the dark rum and spicy ginger beer creates a unique and delicious flavor that is hard to resist. It's a classic drink that has stood the test of time and is sure to impress your guests.
23. Spicy Mango Sake Rum Cocktail
The Spicy Mango Sake Rum Cocktail is a sweet, spicy, sour, and tropical drink made with Koloa Kaua'i Reserve Rum and sake.
The use of Hawaiian chili water and Sichimi Togarachi spice in the Hibiscus salt adds a spicy kick to the drink, while the Tiki bitters balance out the flavors with a touch of bitterness. The cocktail is visually appealing and perfect for sipping on a summer evening.
24. Limeade Rum Fizz
Looking for a refreshing and tropical cocktail to beat the summer heat? Look no further than the Limeade Rum Fizz! This cocktail is infused with a simple syrup of tropical flavors, including lemongrass, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, giving it a unique and delicious taste.
The combination of fresh lime juice, white rum, and sparkling water creates a perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness, making it a perfect summer drink. Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying a day at the beach, the Limeade Rum Fizz is sure to transport you to a tropical paradise. Don't miss out on this must-try summer cocktail!
25. Tropical Strawberry Hibiscus Rum Spritz
Looking for a refreshing and tropical rum cocktail to enjoy this summer? Look no further than the Tropical Strawberry Hibiscus Rum Spritz! This cocktail is a perfect blend of mint, lime, mango juice, coconut water, and rum, topped with a beautiful layer of hibiscus tea.
The flavors are perfectly balanced, creating a drink that is both sweet and tart, with just the right amount of rum kick. The addition of fresh hibiscus flowers adds a beautiful touch to the drink, making it a perfect option for any summer gathering. So, if you're looking for a new and exciting rum cocktail to try this summer, give the Tropical Strawberry Hibiscus Rum Spritz a try!
26. Island Dreamsicle Cocktail
Looking for a refreshing and tropical cocktail to enjoy this summer? Look no further than the Island Dreamsicle Cocktail. This delicious drink is made with Koloa Kaua'i Coconut rum, pineapple juice, lime, and coconut milk, all served over ice. The addition of bitters adds depth and complexity to the cocktail, making it a perfect choice for those who want a little something extra in their drink.
The name "Island Dreamsicle" perfectly captures the tropical flavors and vacation vibes of this cocktail. If you're a fan of piña coladas or daiquiris, you'll love this on-the-rocks version. Give it a try and transport yourself to a Hawaiian island paradise.
27. Hemingway Daiquiri
The Hemingway Daiquiri is a classic rum cocktail named after writer Ernest Hemingway. It's a twist on the original Daiquiri, made with rum, lime juice, maraschino liqueur, and grapefruit juice.
The combination of tart grapefruit juice and subtly sweet maraschino cherry liqueur provides a refreshing and unique taste. This cocktail is perfect for warm summer evenings and is best served cold in a coupe glass. It's a must-try for anyone looking to expand their rum cocktail repertoire.
28. Mango Mojito
If you're looking for a refreshing and fruity rum cocktail to enjoy during the summer, the Mango Mojito is a must-try. Made with ripe mango, mint leaves, lime wedges, sugar, Bacardi silver rum, and soda water, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
The ripe mango adds a tropical twist to the classic mojito, making it a great choice for those who love fruity cocktails. The recipe has been carefully crafted to ensure a fine balance of flavors, so you can be sure that every sip will be delicious. If you're a fan of mojitos or just looking for a new summer cocktail to try, the Mango Mojito is definitely worth a taste.
29. Frozen Mango Daiquiri
The Frozen Mango Daiquiri is a perfect summer rum cocktail that will transport you to a tropical paradise. This frozen daiquiri is a spin on the classic daiquiri, adding real fruit to the standard ingredients. The mango carries the sweetness here, making it a healthier option than the traditional daiquiri.
The aged rum adds a complex and interesting flavor to the drink, making it a perfect choice for rum enthusiasts. The texture of the drink is creamy, frosty, and refreshing, making it an ideal cocktail to beat the summer heat. If you're looking for a sunny spin on a tropical drink, the Frozen Mango Daiquiri is a must-try.
30. Peach Mojito
If you're looking for a refreshing and fruity rum cocktail to enjoy this summer, look no further than the Peach Mojito. This twist on the classic mojito adds in fresh or frozen peaches for a sweet and crisp flavor that perfectly complements the mint and rum.
The recipe can be easily adjusted to use simple syrup instead of sugar, and the garnish of fresh peach slices adds a beautiful touch. Sip on a Peach Mojito at your next backyard BBQ or summer gathering and enjoy the taste of the season.
31. Banana Rum Cocktail
Looking for a tropical, fruity cocktail to sip on this summer? Look no further than the Banana Rum Cocktail. This unique drink combines white rum with fresh pineapple juice and a whole banana, resulting in a thick and creamy concoction that's perfect for sipping by the pool or on the beach.
The addition of lime juice gives it a tart kick that balances out the sweetness of the fruit. If you're looking to switch up your usual rum cocktail routine, give the Banana Rum Cocktail a try. It might just become your new favorite summer drink.
32. Floridita Daiquiri Cocktail
The Floridita Daiquiri Cocktail is a classic rum cocktail that is perfect for summer sipping. Named after the historic bar in old Havana, this daiquiri variation is easy to make and delicious to drink. Made with white rum, fresh lime juice, Maraschino liqueur, and simple syrup, this cocktail has a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors.
The cocktail is shaken with ice and strained into a chilled coupe glass, and garnished with a lime wheel. The Floridita Daiquiri Cocktail is a refreshing and elegant drink that will transport you to a tropical paradise. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you are lounging by the pool or hosting a summer party, the Floridita Daiquiri Cocktail is sure to impress your guests.