Sweet, juicy cherries meet smooth rum in this refreshing Tropical Cherry Rum cocktail. With a splash of pineapple and a hint of coconut, every sip feels like a mini vacation. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or just dreaming of warmer days, this drink is the perfect way to bring tropical flavors to your glass. I’ve made this countless times for summer get-togethers, and it’s always a hit. Let’s make it together!
Tropical Cherry Rum
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) white rum
- 1 oz (30ml) cherry syrup (or substitute with homemade cherry puree for a fresher, less sweet option)
- 2 oz (60ml) pineapple juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 oz (30ml) coconut cream
- 0.5 oz (15ml) fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Cherry & pineapple slice (for garnish)
Glass: A highball glass works best for this drink, letting the colors shine through. If you want to go all-in on the tropical vibe, try a Tiki mug for extra fun.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in the rum, cherry syrup, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and lime juice.
- Shake well until the mixture is cold and frothy—about 15 seconds.
- Fill a highball glass with fresh ice and strain the drink into the glass.
- Garnish with a cherry and a pineapple slice.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tip: Chill your glass beforehand for an extra refreshing experience.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-ahead: You can mix everything except the ice ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just shake with ice before serving.
- Leftovers: If you have extra, store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a day. Give it a good shake before drinking.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with tropical and spicy foods. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled shrimp or fish – The smoky flavors complement the sweet and tangy notes of the drink.
- Spicy appetizers – Think jerk chicken skewers or spicy mango salsa. The sweetness of the drink balances the heat.
- Fresh fruit salad – Light, refreshing, and a natural match for the fruity flavors in the cocktail.
I love sipping on this with some grilled pineapple—it brings out the tropical flavors even more!
Variations & Customizations
Want to tweak the recipe? Here are some fun ways to switch things up:
Spicy Cherry Rum
- Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker for a little heat.
- Shake as usual and strain for a sweet-spicy twist.
Cherry Rum Smash
- Muddle fresh cherries and mint leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
- Shake, strain, and enjoy a fresher, herbaceous version.
Virgin Tropical Cherry Rum
- Swap the rum for sparkling water or ginger ale.
- Mix everything as usual, then top with the non-alcoholic substitute for a refreshing mocktail.
Helpful Tips
- Fresh lime juice makes a big difference—bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
- Experiment with different rums—light rum keeps it fresh, while dark rum adds a deeper flavor.
- Use natural cherry juice if you want a less sugary option.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Yes! Just thaw them first and blend if making homemade cherry puree.
How do I make this healthier?
Use fresh cherry juice instead of syrup and sweeten with a touch of honey or stevia.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix in a large pitcher. Shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
This Tropical Cherry Rum is one of my favorite ways to bring a taste of summer to any occasion. Whether you’re making the classic version or trying a fun variation, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Cheers! 🍹
