A classic Rum Runner cocktail brings the taste of tropical paradise to any occasion. This sweet and fruity drink combines multiple rums with fruit juices and liqueurs for a perfect balance of flavors.
The Rum Runner recipe includes light rum, dark rum, banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, orange juice, pineapple juice, and grenadine.
The drink got its name from the brave sailors who smuggled rum from the Caribbean to Florida during Prohibition. While those days are long gone, the cocktail remains a beloved choice at bars and beach spots across America.
This easy-to-make cocktail works great for pool parties, backyard barbecues, or anytime you want a taste of the islands. The recipe takes just minutes to prepare and requires basic bartending skills that anyone can master.
Rum Runner Delight Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail strainer
- Small knife and cutting board for garnish
Ingredients
- 1 oz light rum
- 1 oz dark rum
- 1/2 oz banana liqueur
- 1/2 oz blackberry brandy
- 1 oz orange juice
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- 1/2 oz grenadine
- Ice cubes
- Orange slice and cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Add light rum, dark rum, banana liqueur, and blackberry brandy to the shaker.
- Shake for 10-15 seconds until well chilled.
- Fill a hurricane glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The Rum Runner Delight offers a sweet and fruity flavor profile with tropical notes. The blend of dark and light rums creates a rich base that carries through each sip.
Fresh pineapple and orange juices bring bright citrus elements, while the banana liqueur adds a smooth, creamy texture. The grenadine provides a touch of sweetness and its signature red color.
Key flavor notes:
- Sweet tropical fruits
- Caramel from dark rum
- Fresh citrus
- Subtle banana
- Light berry sweetness
The drink starts with a bold rum punch and transitions to softer fruit flavors. The finish is clean with lingering notes of caramel and banana.
When served over crushed ice, the cocktail becomes more refreshing as it slowly dilutes. The temperature change brings out different flavor elements throughout the drinking experience.
The strength level sits at medium-high, with the fruit juices helping to balance the multiple spirits. Perfect for sipping on warm days or as an after-dinner cocktail.
Best serving temperature: Very cold (32-36°F / 0-2°C)
Substitute
Several ingredients can replace items in the Rum Runner Delight cocktail when needed.
Primary alcohol substitutes:
- Dark rum → Spiced rum or aged whiskey
- Light rum → Vodka or white tequila
- Blackberry liqueur → Crème de mûre or blackberry syrup
- Banana liqueur → Banana syrup or puree
The fruit juices are easy to swap. Pineapple juice works instead of orange juice.
Fresh lime juice can replace lemon juice.
Grenadine alternatives:
- Pomegranate syrup
- Cherry syrup
- Simple syrup with red food coloring
For a non-alcoholic version, mix equal parts pineapple juice, orange juice, and cranberry juice.
Add a splash of lime juice and grenadine for color.
Frozen mixed berries make a good replacement for fresh blackberries as garnish.
A slice of orange or pineapple can top the drink if berries aren’t available.
Simple syrup options:
