This refreshing cocktail is the kind of drink that makes you feel like you’re on vacation—whether you’re lounging poolside or just winding down after a long day. The Rum Cooler is light, citrusy, a little fizzy, and super easy to make. It’s one of those drinks I keep coming back to, especially on warm evenings when I want something crisp but not too heavy. I’ve made this one countless times, and I’ll share a few tips I’ve learned to make it just right.
Rum Cooler
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) white rum – light and smooth, perfect for mixing
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice – adds that bright, citrusy kick
- 1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup – adjust to taste if you like it less sweet
- Club soda – enough to top up the glass
- Ice cubes – fill the glass
- Garnish: lemon slice or fresh mint sprig
Method
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the rum and lemon juice.
- Add the simple syrup and give it a good stir to mix everything together.
- Top off with club soda. Stir gently—just enough to combine without losing the bubbles.
- Garnish with a lemon slice or a sprig of mint. Serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Fresh lemon juice makes a big difference. Bottled works in a pinch, but fresh gives the drink that zingy brightness.
- Want a show-stopper presentation? Slowly pour the club soda over the back of a spoon to create a layered look.
- If you prefer a less sweet drink, use just ½ oz (15 ml) of simple syrup or swap it for agave or honey syrup.
- Try different rums—white rum is classic, but aged or spiced rum adds depth and warmth.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix the rum, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just pour it over ice and top with soda.
Note: Don’t add the soda until serving or it’ll go flat.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken – the smoky flavor plays off the citrusy sweetness
- Spicy appetizers – think jalapeño poppers or spicy shrimp; the cooler balances the heat
- Fruit platters – especially pineapple, mango, and berries to echo the tropical vibes
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner rituals—sipping a Rum Cooler while nibbling on a little dark chocolate and fresh strawberries. It’s a simple indulgence that always hits the spot.
Variations to Try
Tropical Rum Cooler
- Use: 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice + splash of coconut cream
- How: Mix with rum, lemon juice, and syrup, then top with soda. Garnish with pineapple or cherry.
Berry Rum Cooler
- Use: A handful of muddled fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
- How: Muddle berries in the glass, then follow the base recipe. Garnish with a few whole berries.
Spiced Rum Cooler
- Use: Spiced rum + 0.25 oz (7 ml) cinnamon syrup
- How: Stir with the base ingredients for a cozy, warm-weather twist.
Virgin Rum Cooler
- Use: Coconut water + a dash of almond extract instead of rum
- How: Combine with lemon juice and syrup, then top with soda. Great for kids and non-drinkers!
Common Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but fresh lemon juice really makes the flavors pop. It’s worth the extra squeeze.
What kind of rum works best?
White rum is traditional, but feel free to use aged or spiced rum for a deeper flavor. Try a few and see what you like best.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use less syrup or try a sugar-free sweetener. You can also balance it with a bit more lemon juice.
Can I make a big batch for parties?
Absolutely! Mix the rum, lemon juice, and syrup in a pitcher ahead of time. Just add soda to each glass right before serving to keep the bubbles fresh.
Are there seasonal versions?
Yes! Use cranberry juice in the fall or add a splash of peppermint extract during the holidays. It’s easy to make it fit the season.
Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Yep! Coconut water and almond extract are a tasty stand-in. It keeps the tropical flavor but skips the booze.
Quick Substitutions
- No simple syrup? Mix equal parts sugar and hot water until dissolved. Let cool before using.
- No lemon? Lime juice works too—it’s a bit more tart but still refreshing.
- No club soda? Sparkling water or lemon-lime soda will do the trick. Just adjust the syrup if your soda is sweetened.
Whether you’re making just one for yourself or a whole pitcher for friends, the Rum Cooler is a laid-back, low-fuss cocktail that always delivers. It’s light, fresh, and endlessly customizable—just the kind of drink that makes you feel like you’ve got summer in a glass. Cheers!
