20 Refreshing White Rum Recipes for Summer

Carmen Eldridge

April 11, 2025

As the sun beats down on us during the scorching summer months, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing cocktail to quench our thirst. And what better way to beat the heat than with a crisp glass of white rum? In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delightful and revitalizing recipes that showcase the versatility of white rum in a variety of summer-inspired cocktails.

From classic mojitos to fruity punch bowls, and even some sweet treats like smoothies and spritzers, we’ve got you covered with our collection of white rum recipes perfect for sipping by the pool or beachside bar. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just want a simple yet satisfying drink to enjoy on your own, these refreshing white rum cocktails are sure to hit the spot.

Classic Mojito with White Rum

Classic Mojito with White Rum
This classic cocktail combines the crispness of mint, the sweetness of lime, and the smoothness of white rum to create a refreshing twist on the traditional mojito.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 6-8 sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– Soda water
– Ice

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint sprigs with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the oils and flavors.
2. Add the lime juice and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with soda water and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!

Piña Colada with Coconut Cream

Piña Colada with Coconut Cream
This creamy twist on the classic Piña Colada recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple and coconut for a refreshing summer treat. With only a few simple ingredients, you can create this indulgent cocktail in no time.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup dark rum
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– Splash of grenadine (optional)
– Pineapple wedges and cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine heavy cream, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and dark rum. Blend until smooth.
2. Add lime juice and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and garnish with pineapple wedges and cherry.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

White Rum Punch with Tropical Fruits

White Rum Punch with Tropical Fruits
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing White Rum Punch infused with sweet and tangy tropical fruits.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz pineapple juice
– 1 oz coconut cream
– 1 cup mixed tropical fruits (such as mango, kiwi, and passionfruit)
– Splash of grenadine syrup
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add white rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream to the shaker.
3. Shake well for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Add mixed tropical fruits and a splash of grenadine syrup on top.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Cooking Time: None, this is a cocktail!

Enjoy your refreshing White Rum Punch with Tropical Fruits!

Daiquiri with Fresh Lime Juice

Daiquiri with Fresh Lime Juice
This refreshing cocktail combines the smoothness of white rum with the zesty flavor of fresh lime juice, perfect for warm weather or any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz White Rum
– 1 oz Freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.

Rum and Ginger Beer Mule

Rum and Ginger Beer Mule
Elevate the classic Moscow Mule with the addition of rum and ginger beer for a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz dark rum
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Sprig of fresh mint, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the dark rum and juice of one lime.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
4. Squeeze a sliver of lime over the drink and drop it in.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None

Tropical White Rum Sangria

Tropical White Rum Sangria
Transform your summer gatherings with this refreshing tropical twist on the classic sangria recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 bottle of white rum (750ml)
– 1 cup of mixed fruit (orange, lemon, lime, pineapple, and grapes)
– 1 cup of chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup of simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1 liter of sparkling water
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the white rum, mixed fruit, and chopped fresh mint leaves.
2. Add the simple syrup and stir until the fruit is well coated.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add the sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the sangria over the top.
6. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.

Banana Rum Smoothie

Banana Rum Smoothie
Banana Rum Smoothie Recipe

A refreshing twist on a classic smoothie, this Banana Rum recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the warmth of rum, perfect for a post-dinner treat or a pick-me-up any time of day.

Ingredients:
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup dark rum (such as Myers’s or Gosling’s)
• Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine bananas, yogurt, and milk.
2. Add honey and blend until smooth.
3. Pour in the dark rum and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or rum level to your liking.
5. Serve immediately, or add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Cooking Time: 0-1 minute (blending time)

This Banana Rum Smoothie is a grown-up twist on a classic smoothie. Enjoy responsibly!

White Rum Sour with Citrus Twist

White Rum Sour with Citrus Twist
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic White Rum Sour. The citrus notes from the lemon and orange zest add a bright and zesty flavor profile to this creamy, sweet, and tangy drink.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz white rum
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– Zest of 1 orange, for garnish
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white rum, lemon juice, simple syrup, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Express a strip of orange zest over the drink and use as garnish.
6. Place a lemon twist or wheel on top of the drink, if desired.

Cooking Time: None (this is a cocktail recipe!)

Cuban Libre with White Rum

Cuban Libre with White Rum
The Cuban Libre is a classic cocktail that gets a creamy twist by substituting white rum for the traditional dark rum. This refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days and gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces white rum
– 4 ounces Coca-Cola
– Lime wedges, for garnish
– Ice

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the white rum.
3. Top with Coca-Cola.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink and drop it in.

Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.

Enjoy your Cuban Libre with White Rum!

Spiced White Rum Hot Toddy

Spiced White Rum Hot Toddy
Warm up with this soothing Spiced White Rum Hot Toddy recipe, perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting pick-me-up any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz white rum
– 1/2 cup strong brewed tea (black or green)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1 lemon slice, optional

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, bring the brewed tea to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the honey and stir until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and add the white rum, cinnamon stick, and whole cloves.
4. Let steep for 5-7 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse into the mixture.
5. Strain the liquid into a mug or heat-proof glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon slice, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Enjoy your Spiced White Rum Hot Toddy and let the soothing warmth of this delightful drink comfort you.

White Rum Mai Tai

White Rum Mai Tai
Escape to tropical paradise with this refreshing twist on the classic Mai Tai cocktail. White rum adds a creamy texture and subtle sweetness, while fresh lime juice provides a tangy kick.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz orange curaçao
– 1/2 oz orgeat syrup (almond-flavored)
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Ice

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add white rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Express a lime wheel over the drink and use as garnish.

Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)

Rum Sunrise with Grenadine

Rum Sunrise with Grenadine
Start your day off right with this refreshing twist on a classic sunrise cocktail. The addition of grenadine adds a sweet and fruity flavor to balance out the tanginess of the orange juice.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz dark rum
– 4 oz orange juice
– 1/2 oz grenadine syrup
– Splash of club soda
– Ice
– Orange slice or cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the dark rum and orange juice.
3. Add the grenadine syrup and stir gently to combine.
4. Top with a splash of club soda.
5. Stir again to create a layered effect.
6. Garnish with an orange slice or cherry.

Cooking Time: None! Just shake, pour, and enjoy!

Pineapple Rum Mojito

Pineapple Rum Mojito
A refreshing twist on the classic mojito, this Pineapple Rum Mojito combines the sweetness of pineapple with the spiciness of mint and rum.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup crushed ice
– 2 oz dark rum
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the oils and flavor.
2. Add the crushed ice, rum, pineapple juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Close the lid and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
3. Fill a highball glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)

White Rum Coconut Cooler

White Rum Coconut Cooler
Beat the heat with this refreshing cocktail that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the sweet and tangy flavors of white rum.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz White Rum
– 1 cup Coconut Milk
– 1/2 cup Pineapple Juice
– 1/4 cup Lime Juice
– 1/4 cup Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of Club Soda
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white rum, coconut milk, pineapple juice, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Top with a splash of club soda.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)

Passion Fruit Rum Cocktail

Passion Fruit Rum Cocktail
Experience the tropical flavors of the Caribbean with this refreshing Passion Fruit Rum Cocktail. A perfect blend of sweet and tangy, this drink is sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz dark rum
– 1 oz passion fruit puree
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add dark rum, passion fruit puree, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of club soda.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Cooking Time: None, just mix and serve!

Rum and Mint Julep

Rum and Mint Julep
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing take on the traditional Mint Julep, featuring the smooth flavor of rum.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz dark rum
– 1 oz fresh mint syrup (see note)
– 4 oz crushed ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add the dark rum and mint syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Note: To make mint syrup, steep 1 cup of fresh mint leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain and mix with an equal amount of sugar to dissolve.

Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few seconds.

White Rum Lemonade Spritzer

White Rum Lemonade Spritzer
Beat the heat with this revitalizing drink that combines the crispness of lemonade with the smoothness of white rum. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients:
• 2 cups freshly squeezed lemonade
• 1 cup white rum (such as Bacardí)
• 1 cup sparkling water
• Sliced lemons and mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a large pitcher with ice.
2. Pour in the lemonade, leaving about an inch at the top.
3. Add the white rum, stirring gently to combine.
4. Top off the pitcher with the sparkling water.
5. Stir well to blend.
6. Slice lemons and add mint leaves for garnish.

Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.

Enjoy your refreshing White Rum Lemonade Spritzer!

Tiki Rum Punch with Pineapple

Tiki Rum Punch with Pineapple
A refreshing tropical twist on a classic rum punch, perfect for warm weather gatherings.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup dark rum
– 1/4 cup triple sec (or other orange-flavored liqueur)
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1 cup mixed fruit juices (such as pineapple, orange, and grapefruit)
– Splash of club soda
– Pineapple wedges and cherry halves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, dark rum, triple sec, and lime juice.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Add mixed fruit juices and stir gently.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, add a splash of club soda.
6. Garnish with pineapple wedges and cherry halves.

Cooking Time:

– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes

Rum and Berry Smash

Rum and Berry Smash
A refreshing twist on the classic smash cocktail, this Rum and Berry Smash combines the sweetness of berries with the spiciness of rum, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique treat any time.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz dark rum
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1/2 cup simple syrup
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– 1 sprig of mint leaves for garnish
– Club soda, for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large glass, muddle the mixed berries with the simple syrup until well combined.
2. Add the dark rum and stir to combine.
3. Fill the glass with crushed ice.
4. Top with club soda.
5. Garnish with a sprig of mint leaves.

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

White Rum Espresso Martini

White Rum Espresso Martini
Elevate your cocktail game with this creamy and rich White Rum Espresso Martini, perfect for coffee lovers and martini enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz white rum
– 1/2 oz Kahlúa liqueur
– 1/2 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1 shot of espresso (about 1 oz)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Ice
– Coffee beans or grinds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white rum, Kahlúa, and Godiva liqueur.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Pour in the shot of espresso, allowing it to flow slowly into the glass.
6. Top with heavy cream, holding back the foam with a spoon.
7. Garnish with coffee beans or grinds.

Cooking Time: None (cocktail preparation only)

Summary

Beat the heat this summer with these 20 refreshing white rum recipes! From classic cocktails like mojitos and daiquiris, to fruity punch bowls and creamy smoothies, there’s something for everyone. Try a White Rum Punch with tropical fruits, a Banana Rum Smoothie, or a Tropical White Rum Sangria to quench your thirst. Or, get creative with unique recipes like the Spiced White Rum Hot Toddy or the Passion Fruit Rum Cocktail. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard BBQ, these refreshing white rum drinks are sure to be a hit!

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