There’s something about the Rum Daisy that just feels like summer in a glass. It’s light, citrusy, and just sweet enough to keep you coming back for another sip. I’ve made this drink countless times-especially when I’m hosting friends on a warm evening-and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re new to mixing cocktails or just looking for something fresh and classic, this one’s a keeper.
Rum Daisy
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Cocktail glass or highball glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) white rum – a light rum works best, but feel free to try spiced or aged for a twist
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice – freshly squeezed makes all the difference
– 1 tsp (5 ml) grenadine – adds sweetness and a rosy hue
– Splash of seltzer water – for that refreshing fizz
– Ice – enough to fill your shaker
– Garnish: Lemon slice or maraschino cherry
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop it in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you mix the drink.
- Fill a shaker with ice. Use enough to chill the drink well-about a cup should do.
- Pour in the rum, lemon juice, and grenadine. Measure carefully for the right balance of sweet and tart.
- Shake it up. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want it nice and cold.
- Strain into your glass. If you chilled your glass with ice water, dump it out first. Then strain the drink in.
- Top with a splash of seltzer. Just enough to bring some sparkle to the drink.
- Garnish and serve. A lemon slice or cherry on the rim adds a cheerful touch.
Tips for Success
– Always use fresh lemon juice-the bottled stuff just doesn’t cut it here.
– Don’t overshake or the drink can get diluted. About 15 seconds is perfect.
– If you’re using a highball glass, add fresh ice before pouring in the drink.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s easy to make, and it really hits that sweet spot between refreshing and flavorful.
Make-Ahead & Storage
– You can mix the rum, lemon juice, and grenadine ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge.
– When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick shake with ice, then top with seltzer and garnish.
– Leftovers? Store the pre-mixed base in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Substitutions & Variations
Substitutions:
– No grenadine? Use simple syrup or honey for a different kind of sweetness.
– Want a lower-sugar option? Try agave nectar or a few drops of liquid stevia.
– No lemon? Lime juice gives it a tangier, tropical twist.
Variations:
Spiced Rum Daisy
– Use spiced rum instead of white. Add a cinnamon stick for garnish to play up the warming notes.
Frozen Rum Daisy
– Blend the ingredients with a scoop of crushed ice until smooth. Serve in a chilled glass with a straw.
Dark Rum Daisy
– Swap in dark rum for a richer, deeper flavor. A dash of bitters adds complexity.
Virgin Rum Daisy (Mocktail)
– Leave out the rum and add a bit more seltzer and grenadine. Still refreshing, still delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cocktail with food that complements its sweet-tart profile:
Spicy Bites
– Think jalapeño poppers, spicy shrimp, or Thai spring rolls. The Rum Daisy cools things down beautifully.
Grilled Seafood
– Lightly charred fish tacos or grilled shrimp skewers play nicely with the citrus notes.
Fruit Dishes
– A tropical fruit salad with mango, pineapple, and kiwi echoes the cocktail’s bright flavors.
FAQs
Can I make a big batch?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients by how many guests you’re serving. Mix everything except the seltzer ahead of time and chill. Add the fizz just before serving.
What’s the best rum to use?
A light, white rum is classic, but spiced or aged rums bring a fun twist. Try a few to see what you like best.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use less grenadine or switch to a lighter sweetener like agave. Adding a bit more lemon juice helps balance things too.
What’s the difference between a Rum Daisy and a Rum Punch?
Rum Punch is usually fruitier and served in larger batches. The Rum Daisy is more balanced and focused on the rum-citrus combo.
How can I make it look extra special?
Garnish with a sprig of mint, a slice of starfruit, or even an edible flower. Presentation makes a big impact.
Final Thoughts
The Rum Daisy is simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re sipping solo or mixing up a batch for friends, it brings a little sunshine to any occasion. Try it once, and you’ll see why it’s been a favorite for generations.
