35 Best Homemade Rum Cocktails

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In this guide, you’ll find a selection of classic and modern rum cocktail recipes that you can easily whip up at home. Whether you prefer a refreshing Mojito, a bold Dark ‘n’ Stormy, or a sophisticated Daiquiri, these recipes are designed to showcase the diverse flavors of rum.

Rum is often associated with the swashbuckling pirates of the Caribbean, but its origins trace back to the Indies. Christopher Columbus is credited with introducing sugar cane to the West Indies, setting the stage for rum’s rich history.

Today, rum comes in a diverse array of styles from around the world. Interestingly, its name—and flavor profile—varies by region.

Rums from former English colonies are known simply as “rum” and tend to be drier. In contrast, “ron” refers to rums from former Hispanic colonies, offering a sweeter, spicier taste.

The French West Indies produce “rhum,” which is often herbaceous and distinctive.

Rum cocktails can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, and well take a look into some of the most renowned rum cocktails that can be made easily at home. You don’t really need to be a bartender here.

But, first.

Brief look at  the History  of Cocktails

Rum cocktails have a rich history that dates back to the early days of Caribbean colonization when sugar cane plantations flourished, giving rise to this versatile spirit. By the 17th century, rum had become a staple in the Caribbean, and sailors often mixed it with other ingredients to create early versions of what we now call rum cocktails.

These drinks gained widespread popularity, particularly during the Prohibition era in the United States, when rum was a favored spirit due to its availability from nearby Caribbean islands.

Rum has evolved into a wide array of varieties based on preparation, origin and way of consumption. But, what types of rum are most commonly found nowadays?

Main Types of Rum

• White Rum: Light and mild, ideal for cocktails like mojitos and daiquiris.
• Gold Rum: Richer flavor, golden color, versatile for sipping or mixing.
• Dark Rum: Deep color, bold flavors, often with spice and molasses notes.
• Spiced Rum: Infused with spices, great for mixed drinks.
• Aged Rum (Añejo): Complex flavors, aged for several years, often sipped neat.
• Overproof Rum: High alcohol content, used for a strong rum flavor in cocktails.
• Flavored Rum: Infused with fruit flavors, perfect for tropical cocktails.
• Rhum Agricole: Made from sugarcane juice, distinct grassy flavor.
• Cachaça: Brazilian rum made from sugarcane juice, known for its earthy taste, key in Caipirinhas.

Here’s some common measurements you’ll need for making rum cocktails, with conversions to help you get it just right:

• Standard Shot (Jigger): 1.5 oz = 45 ml (typical amount of rum per serving).
• Half Shot: 0.75 oz = 22.5 ml.
• Tablespoon: 1 tbsp = 0.5 oz = 15 ml.
• Teaspoon: 1 tsp = 0.17 oz = 5 ml.
• Dash: 1 dash = about 1/8 tsp = 0.02 oz = 0.6 ml (usually 6-8 drops).
• Drop: 1 drop = 0.05 ml (used for bitters or very small amounts of liquid).
• Splash: 1 splash = about 1/5 oz = 6 ml (a quick pour, often used for soda or tonic water).
• Pinch: 1 pinch = 1/16 tsp (often used for salt or spices).

And now..

Let the fun begin ;-). Try these easy rum cocktail recipes that’ll make you the star of the party. Whether you’re mixing for friends or just yourself, these drinks are sure to impress your senses.

35 Best Homemade Rum Cocktails

Classic Cocktails

1. Piña Colada

Originating from Puerto Rico and invented in 1954, the Piña Colada is a creamy blend of rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream. This tropical favorite is ideal for beach parties and summer nights.

Ingredients:

• 40 ml white rum
• 20 ml La Mauny VO amber rum
• 120 ml pineapple juice
• 40 ml coconut cream

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the rums and pineapple juice with ice cubes. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the coconut cream and blend briefly.
3. Serve in a fancy tumbler glass and garnish with a pineapple slice and leaf.

2. Daiquiri

A classic cocktail with a history dating back to 1920, the Daiquiri is simple yet elegant. It was first mentioned in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “This Side Of Paradise.”

Ingredients:

• 40 ml white rum
• 20 ml lemon juice
• 10 ml sugar syrup or cane sugar

Instructions:

1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine all ingredients.
2. Shake well and strain into a martini glass.
3. Garnish with a lime slice.

Variations:

• Banana Daiquiri: Add two slices of banana and blend for a smooth, creamy texture.
• French Daiquiri: Mix 40 ml white rum, 20 ml orange liqueur, 15 ml lime juice, 15 ml orange juice, and 10 ml cane sugar syrup.
• Mango Daiquiri: Blend 60 ml white rum, 30 ml lemon juice, 22.5 ml mango puree, and 22.5 ml cane sugar syrup.
• Jilly O Daiquiri: Combine 40 ml La Mauny VO rum, 15 ml cane sugar syrup, 25 ml lime juice, and 10 ml passion fruit juice.

3. Mai Tai

Created in California in 1944, the Mai Tai is named after a Tahitian expression meaning “the best in the world.” It’s a classic tiki drink with a complex flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 30 ml white rum
• 30 ml aged rum
• 15 ml orgeat syrup
• 15 ml lime juice
• 10 ml orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a glass.
3. Garnish with a candied cherry and a slice of orange.

4. Mojito

One of the most refreshing and fragrant cocktails, the Mojito is a perennial favorite in bars across France. This Cuban classic combines mint, lime, and rum for a burst of flavor. It’s perfect for summer afternoons or casual gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml Matusalem rum
• 20 ml fresh lime juice (from 1 lime)
• 6 to 8 mint leaves
• 1 small spoon of brown sugar
• Crushed ice
• Sparkling water

Instructions:

1. Cut the lime into wedges and squeeze some juice into a glass. Add the lime wedges to the glass.
2. Add the mint leaves and sugar, then muddle everything together with a pestle.
3. Fill the glass two-thirds full with crushed ice.
4. Pour in the Matusalem rum.
5. Top up with sparkling water and stir gently.
6. Garnish with additional mint sprigs and lime/lemon slices.

White Rum Cocktails

5. Caipirinha

The Caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail, is made with cachaça, cane sugar, and lime. It’s known for its refreshing and simple taste, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml Brazilian cachaça
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 fresh lime
• Crushed ice

Instructions:

1. Cut the lime into quarters and remove any white membranes.
2. Place lime pieces in a glass with the peel side down and the pulp side up.
3. Sprinkle with brown sugar and muddle to release lime juice.
4. Fill the glass with crushed ice and pour in cachaça.

6. The Zombie cocktail 

A potent, tangy cocktail that emerged from Hollywood’s Don the Beachcomber in 1934, the Zombie is a quintessential tiki drink. It’s known for its bold flavors and impressive presentation.

Ingredients:

• 30 ml La Mauny VO amber rum
• 30 ml white rum
• 20 ml lime juice
• 30 ml pineapple juice
• 30 ml grapefruit juice
• 1 dash grenadine
• 1 dash cane sugar syrup

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a tumbler glass.

7. Don Papa Julep Cocktail

Drawing inspiration from the Filipino roots of Don Papa rum, this cocktail uses calamondin juice for a unique flavor. It’s a refreshing twist on the classic mint julep.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml Don Papa rum
• 20 ml calamondin juice
• 20 ml liquid brown sugar
• 1 bunch mint leaves
• 2 lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Muddle lime wedges and mint in a shaker.
2. Add the remaining ingredients and shake vigorously.
3. Strain into a long glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with mint, lime slices, and a few drops of Thai bitters.

Dark Rum Cocktails

8. Cuban Punch

A refreshing, fruit-forward drink perfect for a hot day, the Cuban Punch combines rum with tropical juices for a vibrant flavor.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml Matusalem rum
• 50 ml pineapple juice
• 50 ml orange juice
• Lemonade
• Grenadine

Instructions:

1. In a tall glass, combine rum, pineapple juice, and orange juice.
2. Add lemonade and a few drops of grenadine.
3. Mix well.

9. Angostura 1919 Treacle

This cocktail uses Angostura 1919 rum and aromatic bitters for a flavorful and complex drink. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a deeper, richer taste.

Ingredients:

• 40 ml Angostura 1919 rum
• 3 dashes Angostura Aromatic Bitters
• 10 ml maple syrup or cane syrup
• 30 ml apple juice

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a pint glass with ice.
2. Stir for 15-20 seconds and strain into a small glass with ice.

10. Mademoiselle

A refined cocktail reminiscent of a luxurious red velvet curtain, Mademoiselle features an elegant blend of flavors. It’s ideal for formal occasions or sophisticated events.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml arranged rum
• 20 ml pomegranate liqueur
• 10 ml elderflower liqueur
• 2 dashes cherry bitter

Instructions:

1. Shake all ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker.
2. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a maraschino cherry.

11. Tropical Storm

A fruity and spicy cocktail, the Tropical Storm blends sweet and tart flavors for a refreshing drink. It’s an adventurous choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their cocktails.

Ingredients:

• 40 ml white rum
• 60 ml fresh passion fruit juice
• 1 dash chili pepper
• 3 teaspoons vanilla sugar

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice cubes.
3. Garnish with a slice of lemon or orange.

Simple Cocktails

12. Ti-Punch

A classic Caribbean drink, Ti-Punch is a simple yet flavorful cocktail. It’s a staple in French-speaking Caribbean islands and features just three ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml arranged rum
• 10 ml cane sugar syrup
• 10 ml lime juice

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a glass filled with ice.
2. Stir and garnish with a lime slice.

13. Tropical Cocktail

This sparkling, tropical cocktail combines refreshing fruit flavors with a touch of sweetness, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 60 ml white rum
• 40 ml lemon juice
• 20 ml grenadine
• 10 ml cane sugar syrup

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
2. Strain into a glass.

14. Long Island Pomanok

A warm twist on the classic Long Island Iced Tea, the Long Island Pomanok features spicy and bitter notes for a unique twist. Fruit or herbal Iced tea is a perfect match for making rum cocktails and you’ll know what I’m talking about once you try it out yourself.

Ingredients:

• 15 ml arranged rum
• 15 ml gin
• 15 ml cognac
• 20 ml amaretto
• 2 dashes cherry bitters
• 20 ml lime juice
• 80 ml cola (or make your own cola at home)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients except cola in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a tumbler glass filled with ice.
3. Top with cola.

15. Mangolada cocktail recipe

Combining mango and coconut cream, the Mangolada is a creamy, velvety cocktail that evokes tropical indulgence. It’s a great choice for a special occasion or as a dessert drink.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml arranged rum
• 20 ml fresh mango puree
• 2 tablespoons emulsified coconut cream

Instructions:

1. Mix coconut cream until smooth and store in an airtight can.
2. Blend mango puree, rum, and coconut cream with ice.
3. Serve in a tasting glass and garnish with roasted coconut.

Spiced Rum Cocktails

16. Gingerspiced Cocktail

A flavorful blend of spiced rum and ginger beer, The Gingerspiced Cocktail is a zesty and refreshing option, ideal for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

Ingredients:

• 35 ml Black Magic spiced rum
• 200 ml Franklin & Sons Ginger Beer
• Dried orange slice for decoration

Instructions:

1. Add ice cubes to a glass.
2. Pour in the spiced rum and ginger beer.
3. Stir and garnish with a dried orange slice.

17. Spiced Rum Hot Toddy

Ingredients:

• 2 oz spiced rum
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• 4 oz hot water
• Cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add honey and lemon juice to a mug.
2. Pour in the spiced rum.
3. Top with hot water and stir until the honey dissolves.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

18. Spiced Rum Punch

Ingredients:

• 2 oz spiced rum
• 1 oz orange juice
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 1/2 oz grenadine
• Orange slice and cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine spiced rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, and grenadine in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.

19. Spiced Rum Mojito

Ingredients:

• 2 oz spiced rum
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 1 tsp sugar
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• Club soda
• Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. Muddle mint leaves, sugar, and lime juice in a glass.
2. Fill the glass with ice and add the spiced rum.
3. Top with club soda and stir.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig.

20. Spiced Rum Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

• 2 oz spiced rum
• 1 sugar cube or 1 tsp simple syrup
• 2 dashes of bitters
• Orange peel and cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. Muddle the sugar cube (or combine simple syrup) with bitters in a glass.
2. Add spiced rum and a large ice cube.
3. Stir gently and garnish with an orange peel and cherry.

These spiced rum cocktails are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to cozy nights in. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and adding your twist to each drink!

Gold Rum Cocktails

21. Vanilla Aloha

Combining the elements of a cocktail and dessert, Vanilla Aloha features a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy, fruity treat. It’s perfect for dessert or a special celebration.

Ingredients:

• 40 ml amber / gold rum
• 40 ml pineapple juice
• 40 ml orange juice
• 20 ml coconut milk
• 10 ml lemon juice
• 1 scoop vanilla ice cream

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients except the ice cream in a glass with ice cubes.
2. Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
3. Garnish with pineapple leaves and a wedge of pineapple.

22. Creole Coffee cocktail

A delightful blend of coffee and rum, Creole Coffee is perfect for a relaxing evening or as a dessert cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml amber / gold rum
• 20 ml espresso
• 10 ml honey
• 5 ml amaretto
• 5 ml cane sugar syrup

Instructions:

1. Shake all ingredients with ice.
2. Strain into a champagne flute.

23. El Presidente

A Cuban variation of the Daiquiri, El Presidente was named in honor of President Gerardo Machado and became a favorite among Havana’s elite during Prohibition. It’s a refined choice for sophisticated gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml La Mauny VO amber rum
• 15 ml orange liqueur
• 10 ml vermouth

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a glass filled with ice.
2. Stir and garnish with a fresh cherry.

24. Hemingway Daiquiri

A refreshing twist on the classic Daiquiri, named after the famous writer Ernest Hemingway, who was a fan of this tart, citrusy cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 60 ml white rum
• 15 ml maraschino liqueur
• 30 ml fresh grapefruit juice
• 20 ml fresh lime juice
• 10 ml simple syrup

Instructions:

1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine all ingredients.
2. Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
3. Garnish with a lime wheel.

25. Dark and Stormy cocktail

A robust, spicy cocktail that pairs dark rum with ginger beer for a simple yet satisfying drink.

Ingredients:

• 60 ml dark rum
• 120 ml ginger beer
• 10 ml fresh lime juice
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour the ginger beer into the glass.
3. Gently float the dark rum on top.
4. Add the lime juice and garnish with a lime wedge.

26. Paloma

A popular Mexican cocktail that blends tequila with grapefruit soda for a light and tangy drink.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml white rum
• 10 ml fresh lime juice
• Pinch of salt
• Grapefruit soda
• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a glass and dip it in salt.
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. Add the white rum and lime juice.
4. Top up with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.

27. Singapore Sling rum cocktail

A fruity, vibrant cocktail with a rich history, perfect for those who enjoy a complex and exotic flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 30 ml white rum
• 15 ml cherry brandy
• 7.5 ml Cointreau
• 7.5 ml DOM Bénédictine
• 120 ml pineapple juice
• 15 ml lime juice
• 10 ml grenadine
• Dash of Angostura bitters

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry.

28. Aperol Spritz rum cocktail

An Italian classic, the Aperol Spritz is a refreshing and slightly bitter cocktail that’s perfect for summer afternoons.

Ingredients:

• 60 ml Aperol
• 180 ml white rum
• 90 ml Prosecco
• Splash of soda water
• Orange slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Pour in the rum, Aperol and Prosecco.
3. Add a splash of soda water.
4. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.

29. Bramble rum cocktail

A modern classic, the Bramble combines gin with blackberry liqueur for a beautifully layered and visually stunning drink.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml rum
• 25 ml fresh lemon juice
• 15 ml simple syrup
• 15 ml blackberry liqueur (Crème de Mûre)
• Fresh blackberries and a lemon slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a shaker with ice and add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
3. Drizzle the blackberry liqueur over the top.
4. Garnish with fresh blackberries and a lemon slice.

30. Rum Espresso Martini

A rich and invigorating cocktail that combines vodka with espresso for a perfect after-dinner drink.

Ingredients:

• 50 ml rum
• 30 ml freshly brewed espresso
• 20 ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa)
• 10 ml simple syrup
• Coffee beans for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with a few coffee beans.

31. French 75 with rum recipe

A sophisticated cocktail that pairs gin with champagne for a light and bubbly experience.

Ingredients:

• 30 ml rum
• 15 ml fresh lemon juice
• 10 ml simple syrup
• Champagne
• Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a champagne flute.
3. Top up with champagne.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Cachaça Rum Cocktails

32. Batida de Coco (Coconut Batida)

A creamy, tropical cocktail that blends the richness of coconut with the vibrant flavor of cachaça.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz cachaça
• 1 oz coconut milk
• 1 oz sweetened condensed milk
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously until well mixed.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a sprinkle of coconut flakes or a lime wedge.

33. Rabo de Galo

A classic Brazilian cocktail that combines cachaça with sweet vermouth for a smooth, balanced drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz cachaça
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1/4 oz bitter liqueur (optional)
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Stir the cachaça, sweet vermouth, and bitter liqueur with ice in a mixing glass.
2. Strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with an orange twist or a cherry.

34. Cachaça Sour

A Brazilian twist on the classic whiskey sour, this cocktail is tart, sweet, and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz cachaça
• 1 oz lime juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Lime wheel or cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine cachaça, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with a lime wheel or cherry.

35. Brazilian Cachaça Mule

A refreshing and spicy take on the classic Moscow Mule, using cachaça instead of vodka.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz cachaça
• 4 oz ginger beer
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mule mug or glass with ice.
2. Add the cachaça and lime juice.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig.

Final Touches and Decorations

Making your cocktail look as good as it tastes can really up your drink game. Here are some easy decoration tips to make your cocktails pop:

• Layering: Create a rainbow effect by mixing liquids of different densities.
• Rimming: Rim the glass with salt, cocoa, or sugar for added flavor.
• Tropical Touches: Use small umbrellas, straws, or cocktail stirrers to enhance the tropical feel.
• Spices and Garnishes: Sprinkle spices, chocolate, or sugar on sparkling cocktails for added flair.
• Fruit Decorations: Add slices of fruit like orange or lemon to the rim of the glass.
• Creative Glassware: Use diverse glass formats to present your cocktails in unique ways.
• Mini-Skewers: Decorate with skewers of fruits or sweets for a playful touch.

Have you tried making any of these cocktails at home? Got a favorite? If you’ve got questions or tips, drop them in the comments below!