This rum runner recipe is fruity and tropical with plenty of refreshing twists between the two kinds of rum, blackberry and banana liqueur, plus pineapple and orange juices. This cocktail is the perfect summertime drink!
Why this recipe works
The ingredients list may look a bit loaded on this cocktail, but the result is entirely worth it. With both light and dark rum plus high-proof rum, you can guarantee this drink focuses on its main ingredient. The rum runner was born in the 1950s at the Holiday Isle Tiki Bar in Islamadora, Florida. It’s similar to a good ole rum punch ingredient-wise, but ironically, a rum runner actually packs more of an alcoholic punch.
On top of the rum, you’ll mix in fruit juices such as pineapple and orange juice, plus a bit of liqueur as well including both blackberry and banana followed by a splash of grenadine. It’s needless to say that this rum runner cocktail is jam-packed with both liqueur and tropical flavors alike making it a fun sipper during the summer months at barbecues and parties.
Ingredients you will need
Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.
Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions
RUM – Both light and dark rum are used in this recipe. The high-proof rum adds flavor to counteract the sometimes overpowering citrus juices in cocktails. It’s not completely necessary, but adds to the richness of this cocktail and simply sits on top of the finished drink. You can omit it if desired.
How to Make Rum Runner
These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- Fill a cocktail shaker cup halfway with ice and add all ingredients, minus the high-proof rum, and shake until well combined.
- Empty into a hurricane glass filled 3/4s full of ice and top with high-proof rum.
- Garnish with an orange slice, pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
We recommend a hurricane glass for rum runner cocktails, particularly a 15-ounce hurricane glass as that’s what this recipe will yield. You can also use a Collins glass (aka highball glass) to serve.
The name rum runner actually comes from those who were referred to as “rum runners” who would smuggle the alcohol into the Florida Keys. It’s said that this cocktail was created using excess rum at the Holiday Isle Tiki Bar in Islamadora, Florida in order to make room for incoming shipments, which is also why it’s loaded with 3 different kinds of rum!
Serving Suggestions
The rum runner should be served with ice, though some enjoy it blended, and optionally topped with high-proof rum. Garnish with an orange slice, pineapple wedge, and maraschino cherry for color and tropical vibes.
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Rum Runner
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It Rate ItIngredients
- 1-2 cups ice divided
- 1 ounce pineapple juice
- 1 ounce orange juice
- 1 ounce blackberry liqueur
- 1 ounce banana liqueur
- 1 ounce light rum
- 1 ounce dark rum
- ½ teaspoon grenadine or more if desired
- 1 ounce high proof rum
Things You’ll Need
- Hurricane glasses 15 ounce or larger
Before You Begin
- The high-proof rum adds flavor to help counteract the sometimes overpowering citrus juices in cocktails. It’s not completely necessary, but adds to the richness of this cocktail and simply sits on top of the finished drink. You can omit it if desired.
Instructions
- Fill a shaker cup halfway with ice and add all ingredients, minus the high-proof rum, and shake until well combined.
- Empty into a hurricane glass filled 3/4s full of ice and top with high-proof rum.
- Garnish with an orange slice, pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry, if desired.
Nutrition
Lindsay Formaro
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