When you picture yourself stepping off the plane and onto the beaches of a tropical island, what drink are you holding in your hand? It definitely has an umbrella sprouting from the glass, and it’s almost certainly rum punch. When most people think of the best rum punch recipe, they’re looking for a fruity drink with a rummy kick. This recipe will do it. Plus, with its peachy pink hue, it screams vacation destination.
We’ll show you how to make rum punch for the perfect summer sipper—even if you’re just staycationing.
What is rum punch?
Rum punch is the ideal tropical cocktail. It makes use of the Caribbean’s most popular spirit and often includes plenty of fruit flavors. What’s not to love?
The rum punch drink has a long history. According to David Wondrich, mixologist, historian and author of Punch: The Delights (and Dangers) of the Flowing Bowl, the cocktail originated when British sailors found themselves without beer yet still wanted something with alcohol.
In places like the Caribbean, rum was the most available liquor. From there, a punch formula was created: part spirit, citrus, sugar, spice and water.
Over time, the ratios and particulars have changed. Today, most rum punch recipes call for some variation on those components. Our Test Kitchen’s favorite recipes include citrus juice, grenadine and, yes, plenty of rum.
Ingredients for Rum Punch
- Rum: You’ll need both light and dark rum for this recipe. These are the best rums to add to your liquor cabinet.
- Juice: There are three kinds of juices in this rum punch recipe: pineapple, orange and lime. Feel free to use either fresh or prepared pineapple and orange juice, but always use fresh lime juice. It makes a difference!
- Grenadine: A simple grenadine contains just sugar, pomegranate juice and lemon juice. Use store-bought, or make your own homemade grenadine at home.
Directions
Step 1: Add the ingredients to a cocktail shaker
Grab your cocktail shaker for this recipe. Fill it three-quarters full with ice. Add the rum (be sure to use light and dark), the juices and the grenadine.
Step 2: Shake and serve
Cover and shake until condensation forms on the outside of the shaker, 15 to 20 seconds.
All that’s left is to strain this sipper into a chilled cocktail glass full of ice. Garnish as you like with cherries (Luxardo cherries are always a welcome addition to a cocktail), fruit slices or even a paper umbrella.
Recipe Variations
- Make a Barbados rum punch: According to mixologist and Barbados culinary ambassador Phillip Antoine, a good rum punch recipe should be, well, rum-forward. To make a Barbados rum punch, fill a cocktail shaker three-quarters full with ice. Add 2 ounces dark rum, 2 ounces water, 1 ounce lime juice, 1 ounce simple syrup and a dash of cocktail bitters. Cover and shake for 15 to 20 seconds. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of lime. Grate fresh nutmeg on top, as bartenders do in Barbados.
- Try different rums: The easiest way to change up the flavor of your rum punch recipe is with different rums. Try a new-to-you brand, spiced rum or even coconut rum.
- Use coconut water: Make this recipe a little more tropical with coconut water. Add a splash or two when you would the rum, juices and grenadine.
Can I make rum punch ahead of time?
Yes, you can make rum punch ahead of time. Pour the light and dark rum, juices and grenadine into a mason jar or airtight container, and keep it in the fridge for up to three days.
When you’re ready to serve, fill a cocktail shaker three-quarters full with ice, and pour over the mixture. Cover and shake until condensation forms on outside of shaker, 15 to 20 seconds. Then strain and serve as described in this recipe.
Rum Punch Tips
How do I make rum punch for a crowd?
When you have people over for a party, the last thing you want to do is stand by the bar cart and play bartender all day. Instead, set out a large pitcher or punch bowl, and turn this rum punch recipe into a batch cocktail.
To make rum punch for a crowd, multiply the recipe by the number of servings you’d like. You can skip the cocktail shaker and ice. Instead, give the ingredients a good stir in a pitcher or punch bowl. When it comes time to serve, pour over plenty of ice, and have garnishes at the ready.
What type of rum goes into rum punch?
Our rum punch recipe uses two different kinds of rum—light and dark. The mix of the two keeps the cocktail light and refreshing while adding a bit of playful boldness.
