There’s something about a Rum Fizz that just hits the spot—cool, citrusy, and bubbly with a little kick from the rum. It’s the kind of cocktail that feels like summer in a glass, whether you’re lounging on the patio or winding down after a long day. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Here’s how to make one that’s perfectly fizzy, refreshing, and easy to love.
Rum Fizz
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) white rum – light and crisp, perfect for this drink
– 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice – for that bright, zippy flavor
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup – adjust to taste
– 1 egg white (optional) – for that frothy top
– Soda water – to top off the drink
– Ice – for shaking and serving
Substitutions:
– Use lime juice instead of lemon for a sharper tang
– Try honey or agave syrup in place of simple syrup
– Skip the egg white if you prefer a lighter texture
Equipment
– Cocktail shaker
– Strainer
– Measuring jigger
– Bar spoon
Method
- In your cocktail shaker, combine rum, lemon juice, simple syrup, and the egg white (if using).
- Dry shake (no ice) for about 15 seconds. This helps the egg white get nice and frothy.
- Add a handful of ice and shake again for 15–20 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with soda water—about 2–3 oz (60–90 ml) or to taste. Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel or a twist if you’d like.
Tip: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same zing.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can pre-mix the rum, lemon juice, and syrup and store it in the fridge for a few hours. Just add the egg white (if using), shake, and top with soda when ready to serve.
Storage
This drink is best enjoyed fresh. If you make a batch of the base (rum, lemon juice, and syrup), keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Don’t add soda or egg white until you’re ready to serve.
What It Tastes Like
A good Rum Fizz is light and bright with a touch of sweetness. You’ll get the warmth of the rum, the tang of lemon, and that satisfying sparkle from the soda. If you include the egg white, it adds a creamy froth that feels silky on the tongue. It’s refreshing, not too boozy, and perfect for sipping.
My Tip for the Perfect Fizz
I learned this after a few trial runs—shake that egg white really well before adding ice. It gives you a creamy, cloud-like foam on top that makes the drink feel extra special.
Food Pairings
This cocktail pairs beautifully with a variety of bites. Here are some of my favorites:
Spicy Appetizers
Think jalapeño poppers, buffalo wings, or spicy shrimp. The fizz cools the heat and keeps things balanced.
Grilled Seafood
Grilled shrimp, scallops, or calamari work great. The light smokiness plays well with the citrusy tang of the drink.
Fresh Salads
A mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a citrusy quinoa salad makes a light, refreshing match.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh lemon juice—it makes a huge difference.
- Dry shake your cocktail if using egg white for a nice foam.
- Don’t overdo the syrup—start with less and adjust to taste.
- Chill your glass before pouring to keep the fizz longer.
Variations to Try
Berry Rum Fizz
– Muddle a few raspberries or blackberries in the shaker before adding the rest of the ingredients.
– Shake, strain, and garnish with fresh berries.
Coconut Rum Fizz
– Swap the white rum for coconut rum.
– Add a splash of pineapple juice for extra tropical flavor.
– Garnish with toasted coconut or a pineapple wedge.
Spiced Rum Fizz
– Use spiced rum instead of white.
– Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg before shaking.
– Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Mix 1 oz (30 ml) lemon juice, ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup, and top with soda water.
– You’ll still get that refreshing fizz without the booze.
Common Questions
Can I skip the egg white?
Absolutely. It adds texture, but the drink is still delicious without it.
What kind of rum works best?
White rum is classic, but feel free to try aged, dark, or spiced rums to mix things up.
How do I make it less sweet?
Cut back on the simple syrup or use a less sweet alternative like agave or honey.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes! Mix the rum, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time. Shake individual servings with ice and top with soda just before serving.
How do I know I’ve shaken it enough?
The shaker should feel icy cold, and if using egg white, the mix should look slightly foamy when you open the shaker.
What’s the secret to a good fizz?
Fresh ingredients, a good shake, and topping with soda right before serving so the bubbles stay lively.
A Rum Fizz is one of those cocktails that feels a little fancy without being fussy. It’s become my go-to cocktail for summer nights, especially when I want something refreshing but still a little special. Once you’ve nailed the classic, it’s easy to put your own spin on it. Happy mixing!
