Rum Runner Cocktail Recipe

The story behind the Rum Runner makes it even more fun. Back in the 1970s in the Florida Keys, a bartender named Tiki John created this drink at the Holiday Isle Tiki Bar. He was clearing out old bottles and ended up making a masterpiece. It quickly became a hit and has been a go-to cocktail ever since.

The name comes from the Prohibition era when smugglers known as rum runners snuck alcohol into the country. Knowing the history adds a little extra charm every time you enjoy this drink.

Now it’s your turn to give it a try. Follow this simple recipe and surprise your friends with a cocktail that’s as fun to make as it is to sip. Let’s get mixing!

Ingredients for a Rum Runner

Let’s talk about what you need to make a Rum Runner. This cocktail is a tropical favorite, full of bold flavors and a fun mix of ingredients. It is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Rum

You are going to use two kinds of rum for this drink. Light rum is your base. It is smooth and subtle, letting the other flavors stand out. Bacardi Superior and Don Q are both solid options.

Then comes dark rum, which brings a rich and caramel-like depth. Myers’s Dark or Gosling’s Black Seal are classics, but if you want to experiment, try a navy-strength rum for a stronger kick. These two types of rum work together to create a balanced and flavorful cocktail.

Liqueurs

Banana liqueur gives the Rum Runner its tropical sweetness. Crème de Banane is a great choice, but if you like a hint of coconut, Malibu Banana Liqueur is a fun option.

Blackberry liqueur adds a little tartness and that gorgeous deep color. Chambord has a bold berry flavor, while Crème de Mûre gives you a more traditional blackberry taste. These liqueurs bring all the fruity magic to your cocktail.

Juices

Pineapple juice is a must for this drink. It is sweet, refreshing, and a little tangy. Fresh-squeezed is always best, but if you do not have that on hand, a good store-bought option will work too.

You can also add orange juice if you want an extra citrusy kick. If you are not into orange juice, just stick with pineapple juice. It is all about making the drink taste the way you like it.

Grenadine

Grenadine is what ties everything together. It adds a little sweetness and gives the cocktail its signature red color. For the best results, go for a grenadine made from real pomegranate juice. Fee Brothers makes a great one, but if you feel like getting creative, you can make your own.

A small splash is all you need to make your Rum Runner look and taste amazing.

How to Make a Rum Runner Cocktail

You will need a few simple bar tools to get started. Grab a cocktail shaker and a citrus squeezer to make things easier.

You will need a few simple bar tools to get started. If you have a cocktail set, you are all set to go. Grab your cocktail shaker and citrus squeezer to make the process even smoother.

Begin by filling your shaker with ice. Pour in your rums, fruit juices, and liqueurs. Give it a good shake for about 15 seconds. This chills the drink and blends all the flavors nicely.

Once it is mixed, strain your drink into a tall glass filled with crushed ice. Crushed ice keeps your cocktail super cold and gives it that refreshing, beachy vibe.

Now for the fun part. Add your favorite garnishes. A maraschino cherry, a pineapple wedge, or a lime slice are all great choices.

You can also adjust the sweetness if you want. Add a little more juice if you like your drinks on the sweeter side. The recipe card below has the measurements, but feel free to tweak them to match your taste.

Remember, the key to a perfect Rum Runner is balance. You want to enjoy all the flavors without one overpowering the others.

Now it is time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your homemade tropical cocktail. Whether it is a sunny afternoon or you just need a little escape, this cocktail is sure to make your day a little brighter.

Rum Runner Recipe Variations

Here are some fun and easy ways to make your Rum Runner your own:

• Blend it with ice for a frozen version that’s perfect on a hot day.
• Want a stronger kick? Add a splash of Bacardi 151 on top.
• Keeping it lighter? Swap the rum for coconut water and pineapple juice to make a refreshing mocktail.
• Try spiced rum instead of white rum for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Love mango? Switch out some of the pineapple juice for mango juice for an extra tropical vibe.
• Finish it off with fun garnishes like pineapple wedges, orange slices, or maraschino cherries.

Get creative and find your new favorite twist!

Other Tropical Cocktails to Try

The Rum Runner is a favorite, but why not mix things up and try a few other tropical drinks? Here are some classics to add to your list:

• Piña Colada
• Mai Tai
• Blue Hawaiian
• Bahama Mama
• Hurricane
• Zombie
• Fog Cutter
• Saturn
• Tia Mia
• Dark and Stormy
• Dark Rum Mojito
• Navy Grog
• Rum Sour

They all bring those tropical vibes and are perfect for your next party or a laid-back evening. Give them a try and see which one becomes your new go-to!

For more rum-based cocktails, check out Dark Rum Cocktails, Easy White Rum Cocktails, and 2-Ingredient Rum Drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Rum Runner made of?

A Rum Runner is a delicious mix of light and dark rums. We add banana and blackberry liqueurs for sweetness and depth.

Pineapple juice gives it a tropical twist. Grenadine adds a pop of color and balances the flavors.

For the rums, we like using Bacardi. Chambord works great for the blackberry liqueur.

Why is it called a Rum Runner?

The name "Rum Runner" comes from Prohibition-era smugglers in the Florida Keys. These brave souls sneaked rum into the U.S. from the Caribbean.

The cocktail honors their daring spirit. It's a nod to the area's rich history of rum smuggling.

Where did the Rum Runner drink originate?

The Rum Runner was born in the early 1970s at the Holiday Isle Tiki Bar in Islamorada, Florida.

Over time, bartenders have created their own spins on the classic recipe. But the spirit of the original lives on in each variation.

It's become a must-try drink for visitors to Key West and the Florida Keys.

How strong is the Rum Runner Cocktail?

Rum Runners pack a punch with two types of rum. The alcohol content can vary, but it's usually around 20-25% ABV.

Don't let the sweet taste fool you. The fruity flavors can mask the alcohol, making it easy to drink.

We always remind our friends to sip responsibly. Enjoy the tropical vibes, but know your limits!

What food pairs well with a Rum Runner cocktail?

Seafood dishes are a perfect match for Rum Runners. We love sipping one with grilled shrimp or fish tacos.

Fresh fruit platters complement the cocktail's tropical flavors. Think pineapple, mango, and berries.

For heartier fare, try BBQ options like pulled pork. The smoky flavors work well with the drink's sweetness.

Don't forget dessert! A rich chocolate cake or fruity tart can be a delightful ending to your meal.

Rum Runner Cocktail Recipe

The Rum Runner is a tropical delight that packs a fruity punch. We love how it blends various rums with fruit liqueurs and juices. This classic tiki drink is perfect for sipping by the pool or pretending you're on a beach vacation.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Cocktails, Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Hawthorne Strainer
• Jigger or measuring cup
• Hurricane Glass or Tall Glass
• Bar Spoon
• Citrus juicer (for fresh lime juice)

Ingredients

  

• ice cubes as needed
• 1 oz light rum like Bacardi Superior
• 1 oz dark rum preferably navy-strength, like Myers's Dark
• 1 oz banana liqueur
• 1 oz blackberry liqueur
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 1 oz orange juice optional
• ½ oz grenadine
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• maraschino cherr, pineapple wedg, lime slice, fresh blackberries for garnish (optional)

Instructions

 

• Fill your cocktail shaker with ice.
• Pour in both rums, banana liqueur, and blackberry liqueur.
• Add pineapple juice, orange juice (if using), grenadine, and lime juice.
• Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill and combine all ingredients.
• Fill your hurricane glass with fresh ice.
• Strain the cocktail into the glass.
• Garnish with a cherry, pineapple wedge, lime slice, and blackberries.

Notes

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Can't find blackberry liqueur? No worries! We can use blackberry brandy instead. It'll give a similar flavor profile.
• If you're out of pineapple juice, double up on the orange juice. The drink will be a bit less tropical, but still tasty.
• For a lower-sugar version, we use fresh-squeezed juices and cut back on the grenadine. You can even skip the grenadine entirely if you prefer.
• Don't have banana liqueur? Try a splash of coconut rum for a different but equally delicious tropical twist.

 

Tips for the Perfect Balance of Flavors

• To nail the sweet-to-sour ratio, start with less lime juice and grenadine. You can always add more, but you can't take it out once it's in.
• We love using crushed ice for a more slushy-like texture. It also helps dilute the strong flavors a bit.
• Chill your glass beforehand for an extra-frosty drink. Just pop it in the freezer for a few minutes before mixing.
• Don't be afraid to adjust the ratios to your taste. Some folks like it sweeter, others prefer more rum kick.
• Remember, fresh juices always taste best. If you have the time, squeeze your own pineapple, orange, and lime juices.

Keyword how to make a rum runner, rum runner cocktail recipe, rum runner drink recipe, rum runner recipe