Name: Rum Runner Cocktail
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 oz light rum; 1 oz dark rum; 1 oz banana liqueur; 1 oz blackberry liqueur; 1 oz orange juice; 1 oz pineapple juice; Splash of grenadine; Ice; Garnish (optional but recommended): Orange slice; Pineapple wedge; Maraschino cherry

The Rum Runner Cocktail is a vibrant, tropical drink bursting with bold island flavors, colorful flair, and a rich history rooted in the Prohibition-era Florida Keys. Originally created in the 1950s at the Holiday Isle Tiki Bar in Islamorada, Florida, the Rum Runner was named after the daring smugglers who transported alcohol during the Prohibition era. Today, the cocktail stands as a festive favorite, known for its powerful punch and fruity complexity. Made with a combination of light rum, dark rum, banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, citrus juices, and a splash of grenadine, the Rum Runner is like a beach vacation in a glass. It’s not just a cocktail—it’s an escape in every sip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something irresistibly nostalgic, wildly fun, and unapologetically bold about the Rum Runner Cocktail. It’s the kind of drink that instantly transports you to a sun-soaked beach, toes in the sand, music in the air, and not a care in the world. Whether you’re lounging poolside, throwing a retro tiki bash, or simply needing a sip of sunshine after a long day, the Rum Runner delivers a full-on tropical experience in every glass. What truly makes this cocktail shine is the vibrant balance of flavors—smooth light rum meets the rich depth of dark rum, while banana liqueur adds a creamy tropical twist that evokes the warmth of island breezes. The blackberry liqueur introduces a dark, jammy undertone, perfectly countered by the citrusy zing of fresh orange juice and the tangy sweetness of pineapple juice. Then comes the grenadine—a splash of color and sweetness that not only enhances the flavor but creates a dazzling visual gradient that’s practically begging for an Instagram post. Top it all off with fresh fruit garnishes, and you’ve got a drink that’s equal parts beautiful and bold. It’s incredibly easy to make, endlessly customizable based on your taste or what you have on hand, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a casual home bartender, the Rum Runner is the kind of recipe that makes you fall in love with tropical cocktails all over again—one sip, one smile, one sunset at a time.

Ingredients

1 oz light rum
1 oz dark rum
1 oz banana liqueur
1 oz blackberry liqueur
1 oz orange juice
1 oz pineapple juice
Splash of grenadine
Ice
Garnish (optional but recommended):
- Orange slice
- Pineapple wedge
- Maraschino cherry

Preparation (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare Your Glass

Start by selecting a tall glass—either a hurricane, highball, or tiki glass works perfectly. For extra flair, chill the glass in the freezer beforehand or fill it with ice water while you prepare the ingredients.

Step 2: Add the Spirits

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour in the light rum, dark rum, banana liqueur, and blackberry liqueur. These form the flavorful and boozy base of your Rum Runner.

Step 3: Add the Juices

Next, add the pineapple juice and orange juice. These citrus elements cut through the richness of the rums and liqueurs, balancing the cocktail with fresh, fruity acidity.

Step 4: Shake it Up

Seal your shaker and give it a vigorous shake for about 15 seconds. This not only mixes the flavors thoroughly but also chills the cocktail for a refreshing result.

Step 5: Pour and Add Grenadine

Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice. Then slowly pour a splash of grenadine down the side of the glass. It will settle at the bottom, creating a beautiful layered look.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with your preferred garnish—an orange slice, pineapple wedge, and maraschino cherry all bring tropical charm and a pop of color. Serve immediately with a straw or cocktail stirrer.

Variation

The Rum Runner is highly adaptable to personal taste. If you prefer a sweeter drink, increase the banana or blackberry liqueur. For a more citrus-forward flavor, boost the orange juice. Some recipes also include a float of high-proof rum for added kick or swap grenadine for raspberry syrup for a berry twist. Frozen versions can be made by blending all ingredients with crushed ice for a slushy, beach-bar experience. For a spicier edge, try replacing the dark rum with spiced rum. Want a lighter option? Serve it over soda water or coconut water for a refreshing twist.

Cocktail Note

Because of its colorful and layered appearance, the Rum Runner is not just about taste—it’s a visual treat too. The grenadine settles beautifully, and when gently stirred, it creates a gradient of tropical colors. Serve it in clear glasses to showcase the aesthetic appeal. If you’re entertaining, prepare a large batch in advance (minus the grenadine) and pour fresh for each guest to preserve the presentation.

Serving Suggestions

The Rum Runner is the quintessential summer cocktail and pairs perfectly with beach-themed appetizers, grilled seafood, or tropical fruit platters. Serve it at pool parties, BBQs, or beach bonfires. Garnish each glass individually to make every guest feel like they’ve just been handed a drink straight from a resort tiki bar. For a full tiki experience, serve with bamboo straws, cocktail umbrellas, or carved pineapple cups.

Tips

Use fresh juice for the brightest flavor—freshly squeezed orange and pineapple juice elevate the drink.
Crushed ice creates a more tropical, slushy texture and keeps the drink cold longer.
Layer carefully when adding grenadine for that classic red base.
Pre-chill your ingredients if serving to a crowd, so every pour is as refreshing as the first.
Make it a pitcher: Just multiply the ingredients and serve with a ladle and fruit garnish.

Prep Time:5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving estimate)

Calories: 230
Carbohydrates: 26g
Sugar: 23g
Alcohol Content: ~20% ABV (varies based on rum used)
Sodium: 2mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this cocktail in advance?
Yes, the Rum Runner Cocktail can absolutely be prepped ahead of time, which makes it a fantastic option for parties, BBQs, or any event where you want to keep things flowing smoothly. You can mix all the liquid ingredients—light rum, dark rum, banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, orange juice, and pineapple juice—together and store them in the refrigerator for several hours or even overnight. Just be sure to wait to add the grenadine and ice until right before serving. The grenadine creates that beautiful layered effect when added last, and fresh ice keeps the cocktail crisp and chilled, enhancing both its flavor and presentation.

2. Can I turn this into a frozen cocktail?
Absolutely! The Rum Runner was practically made for frozen fun. Simply toss all the ingredients (including the grenadine) into a blender with about a cup of crushed ice and blend until smooth. The result is a slushy, fruity drink that’s perfect for hot summer days or any time you want to sip something refreshing with a vacation vibe. You can even garnish it with a wedge of pineapple, a cherry, or a colorful paper umbrella to complete the tropical look.

3. What can I use instead of banana liqueur?
Banana liqueur is a key component of the Rum Runner’s signature flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, there are a few fun workarounds. You can substitute it with banana puree or a banana-flavored syrup, both of which provide that tropical sweetness and fruity aroma. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of banana-flavored soda or juice might even do the trick. However, you can also omit it entirely if needed—the cocktail will still taste fantastic, just with a slightly less tropical profile.

4. What kind of rum works best?
The beauty of the Rum Runner lies in its blend of rum styles. Traditionally, the combination of light and dark rum provides depth, richness, and a slight molasses sweetness. Light rum keeps it smooth and easy-drinking, while dark rum adds complexity and a bit of warmth. However, the recipe is wonderfully flexible—you can use coconut rum for an extra island-inspired twist, spiced rum for a bolder flavor, or even overproof rum if you’re aiming for a stronger punch. Play around with different types to discover your perfect version of this classic tiki drink.

5. How do I make a non-alcoholic version?
Turning the Rum Runner into a mocktail is easy and just as delicious! Replace the rums and liqueurs with non-alcoholic alternatives like banana nectar and blackberry juice. Mix those with fresh orange juice and pineapple juice, and then finish it off with a splash of grenadine to recreate that signature layered look. For a bit of fizz, top it off with club soda or sparkling water. It’s a refreshing, fruit-packed drink that’s perfect for kids, designated drivers, or anyone looking for a tropical treat without the alcohol.

Conclusion

The Rum Runner Cocktail is a lively, flavorful tribute to tropical living, vibrant beach culture, and the colorful legacy of tiki tradition. This drink is more than just a cocktail—it’s a celebration in a glass, filled with the spirited essence of island getaways, sunshine-soaked adventures, and carefree moments. With its perfect fusion of light and dark rums, playful banana and blackberry liqueurs, refreshing citrus juices, and the sweet, ruby-red allure of grenadine, the Rum Runner offers a multi-layered taste experience that’s bold, exotic, and utterly satisfying. Its appeal lies not only in the tropical flavor profile but also in its visual charm—the way the grenadine swirls and settles into a radiant gradient, the garnishes that evoke beachside indulgence, and the aroma that transports you straight to a palm-lined paradise.

Whether you’re sipping it under the sun at a lively poolside party, serving it at a themed gathering with friends, or mixing one up for a quiet evening escape, this cocktail has the power to turn any setting into a personal retreat. It’s the kind of drink that sparks conversation, lifts spirits, and leaves a lasting impression. With its versatility and nostalgic flair, the Rum Runner remains timeless—a crowd-pleaser that transcends trends and continues to enchant new generations of cocktail lovers. So go ahead, shake up a glass or a whole pitcher, garnish it generously with fresh fruit, and toast to the magic of tropical cocktails. With each sip, you’re not just enjoying a drink—you’re embarking on a flavorful journey to island bliss.

Rum Runner Cocktail

Author: Imili Johnson
Total Time: 5 minutes

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