This cocktail is a burst of tropical sunshine in a glass! The Dorado is smooth, refreshing, and perfectly balanced with the warmth of rum and a bright citrus kick. It’s an easy-to-make drink that feels special, whether you’re sipping it on a warm evening or sharing it with friends. I’ve made this countless times, and one thing I’ve learned—fresh lime juice makes all the difference.
El Dorado
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) rum – White rum is classic, but spiced rum adds a cozy twist.
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice – Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup – Adjust to taste if you prefer it less sweet.
- Ice – Enough for shaking and serving.
- Garnish – Lime wheel or sugar cane stick.
Glass options: A highball glass keeps it casual and refreshing, while a coupe glass makes it feel a little fancier.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the rum, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels icy cold.
- Strain into a chilled glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or a sugar cane stick.
Tip: If you want a more complex flavor, lightly muddle a sugar cane stick in the glass before adding your drink. It gives a hint of earthy sweetness!
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Making a batch? Mix the rum, lime juice, and syrup in a pitcher ahead of time. Keep it chilled, then shake with ice just before serving.
- Leftovers? This cocktail is best fresh, but if you have extra, store it in the fridge for up to a day. Shake again before serving.
Perfect Pairings
The Dorado’s tropical and citrusy flavors pair beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or pork – The smoky char balances the drink’s sweetness.
- Fresh summer salads – A crisp salad with vinaigrette keeps things light and refreshing.
I love making this drink alongside grilled pineapple—it’s a match made in heaven!
Tips for the Best Dorado
- Use fresh lime juice – Bottled juice won’t give you that bright, zesty flavor.
- Adjust sweetness – Too sweet? Add a little extra lime juice. Not sweet enough? A tiny splash more syrup will do the trick.
- Try different rums – Aged rum gives a richer taste, while spiced rum adds warm, aromatic notes.
Fun Variations
Spiced Dorado – Swap white rum for spiced rum and add a pinch of cinnamon.
Frozen Dorado – Blend everything with 1 cup of crushed ice for a slushy version.
Virgin Dorado – Skip the rum! Mix lime juice, simple syrup, and soda water for a refreshing mocktail.
FAQs
Can I make a Dorado ahead of time?
Yes! Mix everything but the ice in advance, then shake when ready to serve.
What’s the best rum for this cocktail?
White rum is traditional, but aged or spiced rum adds depth.
How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the simple syrup or swap it for a natural sweetener like honey.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a large container. Shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
This cocktail is a simple yet elegant treat, perfect for warm evenings or whenever you need a tropical escape. Enjoy!
