The Best 2-Ingredient Rum Drinks to Mix at Home

You can find rum in all kinds of cocktails, from the super fancy ones to the easy classics. But sometimes you just want something simple that lets the flavor of the rum do all the talking

The rum industry continues to thrive, with global sales projected to grow from $13.94 billion in 2023 to $14.74 billion in 2024. By 2028, the market is expected to hit $18.05 billion, driven by a growing love for flavored rums and creative cocktails.

If you want to keep things simple, 2-ingredient rum drinks are the way to go. They are quick to mix and perfect for sharing with friends or just relaxing at home. You get all the flavor without any of the fuss.

Ready to try some? Here are a few easy combinations you can whip up in just a few minutes.

The Best 2-Ingredient Rum Drinks to Try

These recipes are so simple you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them before. With just two ingredients, you can make cocktails packed with flavor. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own after a long day.

Rum and Cola (Cuba Libre)

Let’s start with a classic. Rum and cola, or the Cuba Libre if you’re feeling fancy, is always a great choice. Fill a tall glass with ice, pour 2 ounces of rum, and top it with cola. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice if you like a bit of zing.

You can switch things up by using light rum for a crisp taste or dark rum for something richer. Feeling creative? Try coconut rum for a tropical twist or experiment with flavored colas.

Rum and Pineapple Juice

This one’s pure tropical vibes. Mix 2 parts pineapple juice with 1 part rum in a shaker filled with ice. Shake it well, pour it into a glass with fresh ice, and you’re all set.

If you love sweeter drinks, go with coconut rum instead of the usual white rum. Add a pineapple wedge or a cherry to make it look extra special. Pro tip. Freeze pineapple chunks to use as ice cubes. They’ll keep your drink cold without watering it down.

Rum and Coconut Water

If you want something light and refreshing, this is the drink for you. Fill a glass with ice, pour 2 ounces of rum, and top it with coconut water. Squeeze in some lime juice for a little extra flavor.

This drink’s a winner on hot days. It’s not as sugary as some other options, and the coconut water helps keep you hydrated while you sip.

Rum and Ginger Beer (Dark 'n' Stormy)

If you’re in the mood for a little spice, you’ve got to try this one. The Dark and Stormy is a bold and flavorful mix of dark rum and ginger beer. Fill a glass with ice, pour in your rum, and top it with ginger beer. Stir gently and add a lime wedge for a fresh kick.

Go for a spicy ginger beer for the best flavor. It pairs perfectly with the deep richness of dark rum.

Rum and Lemonade

This combo’s simple but so good. Sweet, tart, and refreshing. Pour 2 of ounces of rum into a glass filled with ice, then add 4-6 ounces of lemonade. Give it a stir and garnish with a lemon slice for a nice touch.

If you want to mix things up, try pink lemonade or add a splash of grenadine for extra sweetness. You can also muddle some fresh berries in the glass before adding the rum and lemonade. It adds a fruity flavor and makes your drink look as good as it tastes.

Unique 2-Ingredient Pairings

If you’re looking to mix things up, these rum pairings are exactly what you need. They’re surprising, delicious, and a great way to try something new with just two ingredients.

Rum and Iced Tea

Have you ever tried adding rum to your iced tea? If not, you’re missing out. The smooth sweetness of rum blends perfectly with the crisp, refreshing taste of tea.

All you need to do is mix 2 ounces of light rum with 6 ounces of unsweetened iced tea. Pour it over ice, then add a lemon wedge for a little extra brightness.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try using flavored iced teas like peach or raspberry. They add a fruity twist that makes this drink even better.

Rum and Apple Cider

As the weather cools down, this combo will quickly become your go-to. Rum and apple cider come together to create a cozy, comforting drink.

Mix 2 ounces of spiced rum with 6 ounces of apple cider. You can serve it warm if you want something comforting or chilled for a crisp, refreshing option. For an extra touch, garnish it with a cinnamon stick and a slice of apple.

This pairing is perfect for fall. The spices in the rum balance beautifully with the natural sweetness of the cider, making it a hit at any gathering.

Rum and Hot Chocolate

If you’re craving something rich and indulgent, this is the drink for you. Rum and hot chocolate take a childhood favorite and give it an adult upgrade.

Start with 6 ounces of your favorite hot chocolate, then stir in 1.5 ounces of dark rum. Top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a little extra decadence.

For a fun twist, try using coconut or vanilla rum. They’ll add a unique flavor that makes this drink feel even more special.

Rum and Root Beer

If root beer floats bring back happy memories, you’ll love this grown-up version. It swaps the ice cream for rum, giving you a nostalgic treat with a little kick.

Pour 2 ounces of dark rum over ice in a tall glass, then top it with root beer. Stir it gently, and you’re ready to enjoy. The caramel flavors in the rum pair beautifully with the sweetness of the root beer.

For something extra, you can rim your glass with vanilla sugar. It adds a hint of sweetness and makes your drink look just as good as it tastes.

Tropical Twists

Imagine sipping on a drink that feels like a mini vacation. These rum cocktails are simple, refreshing, and packed with fruity flavors that’ll make you feel like you’re on a beach somewhere.

Rum and Orange Juice

This classic combo is a no-brainer. The sweet citrusy orange juice blends perfectly with the warm, smooth notes of rum. It’s bright, refreshing, and honestly feels like sunshine in a glass.

All you need is equal parts white rum and fresh orange juice. Pour it over ice and garnish with a slice of orange to make it extra special. It’s perfect for brunch or a lazy afternoon by the pool.

If you want to fancy it up, add a splash of grenadine for a layered look. You’ll end up with a drink that looks just like a tropical sunset.

Rum and Grapefruit Juice

If you’re craving something with a little more bite, this one’s for you. The tartness of grapefruit juice pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of rum, creating a crisp and balanced flavor.

Mix two parts grapefruit juice with one part light rum. Pour it over ice and stir gently. For a touch of freshness, add a sprig of mint on top.

If you’re feeling creative, rim your glass with sugar. That little bit of sweetness around the edge adds a nice contrast to the tangy drink.

Malibu Rum and Pineapple Juice

This one’s a crowd favorite for a reason. The coconut flavor in Malibu mixes seamlessly with sweet pineapple juice to create the ultimate tropical drink.

Combine equal parts Malibu rum and pineapple juice in a tall glass filled with ice. Stir it up and garnish with a pineapple wedge or a maraschino cherry. It’s simple, delicious, and practically screams summer.

Want to take it up a notch? Blend it with ice to make a frozen version. It’s perfect for backyard barbecues, tiki parties, or whenever you need a little taste of the tropics.

More Rum Cocktails to Try

Ready to mix things up? Here are a few simple and delicious rum cocktails to explore.

Don’t overlook easy white rum cocktails. They’re light, refreshing, and pair beautifully with juices like pineapple, orange, or grapefruit. Find some great ideas for easy white rum cocktails to try.

If you’re after something richer, check out these dark rum cocktails. The bold flavors of dark rum make for unforgettable drinks that are perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions.

For something zesty and tangy, try a classic Rum Sour cocktail. It’s a great way to experience the versatility of rum.

Want even more variety? Discover some two-ingredient vodka drinks or try these bourbon cocktails for simple yet delicious options.

The fun is in experimenting. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite drink!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rum is best for beginners to mix with?

Light rums are your best bet when starting out. They have a mild flavor that works well in many cocktails.

Brands like Bacardi, Havana Club, and Botucal are great choices for beginners. These light rums mix easily and won't overpower your drink.

Try using light rum in classic cocktails like Mojitos or Daiquiris. These drinks let the rum's flavor shine without being too strong.

Can I use flavored rums like coconut or vanilla in these drinks?

Absolutely! Flavored rums can add a fun twist to your cocktails. They're a great way to experiment with new tastes.

Coconut rum works wonders in a Piña Colada. Vanilla rum can spice up a simple tropical punch.

Just remember, flavored rums can change your drink's overall taste. Play around with different mixers to find what you like best.

What is the best rum-to-mixer ratio for balanced flavor?

A good starting point is the 2:1:1 ratio. That's 2 parts rum, 1 part sour, and 1 part sweet.

You can adjust this ratio to suit your taste. More mixer makes a lighter drink. Less mixer gives you a stronger rum flavor.

For a Rum and Coke, try 1 part rum to 3 parts cola. It's simple and tasty!

What should you not mix with rum?

Avoid mixers with very strong flavors. They can overpower the rum's taste. Be careful with super sweet mixers too. They can make your drink too sugary and unbalanced.

Trust your taste buds. If a combo doesn't sound good, it probably isn't. Experiment, but be mindful of flavors that might clash.