The Rum Runner is a delightful tropical cocktail that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your glass. With its vibrant mix of rum, fruit juices, and liqueurs, this drink is perfect for a summer gathering or a relaxing evening by the beach. Its fruity and slightly sweet flavor profile makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Some ingredients in the Rum Runner might not be staples in your pantry. Banana liqueur and blackberry liqueur are specialty items that you may need to pick up from a well-stocked liquor store. Additionally, grenadine is a sweet syrup often used in cocktails, which can usually be found in the mixers section of your supermarket.

Ingredients For Rum Runner Recipe
Light rum: A clear, mild-flavored rum that forms the base of many tropical cocktails.
Dark rum: A richer, more robust rum that adds depth and complexity to the drink.
Banana liqueur: A sweet, banana-flavored liqueur that adds a tropical twist.
Blackberry liqueur: A fruity liqueur that brings a hint of berry flavor.
Orange juice: Fresh or store-bought juice that adds a citrusy brightness.
Pineapple juice: Adds a sweet and tangy tropical flavor.
Grenadine: A sweet, red syrup made from pomegranate juice, used to add color and sweetness.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing a Rum Runner, ensure that you use freshly squeezed orange juice and pineapple juice for the best flavor. Fresh juices can significantly enhance the overall taste and balance of the cocktail, making it more vibrant and refreshing.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
light rum - Substitute with white grape juice: White grape juice provides a similar light and fruity flavor without the alcohol.
dark rum - Substitute with pomegranate juice: Pomegranate juice offers a rich, deep flavor that mimics the complexity of dark rum.
banana liqueur - Substitute with banana extract: Banana extract gives a strong banana flavor without the alcohol content.
blackberry liqueur - Substitute with blackberry syrup: Blackberry syrup provides the same sweet and fruity taste without the alcohol.
orange juice - Substitute with tangerine juice: Tangerine juice is a close match in flavor and sweetness to orange juice.
pineapple juice - Substitute with mango juice: Mango juice offers a tropical sweetness that complements the other flavors well.
grenadine - Substitute with pomegranate molasses: Pomegranate molasses provides a similar sweet and tart flavor profile.
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How to Store / Freeze This Recipe
To keep your Rum Runner fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps to maintain the vibrant flavors of the orange juice, pineapple juice, and the various liqueurs.
If you plan to enjoy your Rum Runner over a few days, refrigeration is key. Place the container in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 days. The cold temperature preserves the integrity of the banana liqueur and blackberry liqueur.
For longer storage, consider freezing your Rum Runner. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. This method can keep your cocktail fresh for up to a month.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen Rum Runner, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process ensures that the flavors of the light rum and dark rum remain well-balanced.
If you prefer a slushy consistency, you can blend the thawed Rum Runner with ice. This adds a refreshing twist to the cocktail, perfect for hot summer days.
Always give your stored Rum Runner a good shake or stir before serving. This ensures that all the ingredients, including the grenadine, are well-mixed and the flavors are evenly distributed.
For an extra touch, garnish your stored Rum Runner with a fresh slice of orange or a cherry just before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh burst of flavor.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Pour the Rum Runner into a heat-resistant glass or mug.
- Place the glass in a microwave and heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may alter the flavors.
- Alternatively, you can use a double boiler method. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place a heatproof bowl with the Rum Runner over the pot, ensuring the bowl doesn't touch the water. Stir gently until warmed.
- If you prefer a more controlled method, use a sous-vide setup. Seal the Rum Runner in a vacuum-sealed bag and immerse it in a water bath set to 120°F (49°C) for about 10 minutes.
- For a quick and easy option, pour the Rum Runner into a small saucepan and warm it over low heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally and remove from heat once it reaches the desired temperature.
- Always taste and adjust the flavors after reheating, as some ingredients like orange juice and pineapple juice might become more pronounced.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Shaker: Used to mix all the ingredients together with ice, ensuring they are well combined and chilled.
Strainer: Helps to separate the mixed drink from the ice when pouring it into the glass.
Glass: The vessel in which the final drink is served, typically filled with ice.
Jigger: A measuring tool used to ensure the correct amount of each liquid ingredient is added.
Ice: Essential for chilling the drink and ensuring it is served cold.
Knife: Used to slice the orange for garnish.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the orange.
Cocktail pick: Optional tool for placing the cherry garnish on the drink.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all light rum, dark rum, banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, orange juice, pineapple juice, and grenadine before starting to save time during preparation.
Use a cocktail shaker: A cocktail shaker ensures quick and efficient mixing of all ingredients, saving time compared to stirring.
Prepare garnishes in advance: Slice your orange or prepare your cherry garnish ahead of time to streamline the final steps.
Batch preparation: If making multiple servings, scale up the recipe and mix in a larger pitcher to save time on individual servings.

Rum Runner Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 oz Light Rum
- 1 oz Dark Rum
- 1 oz Banana Liqueur
- 1 oz Blackberry Liqueur
- 2 oz Orange Juice
- 1 oz Pineapple Juice
- 0.5 oz Grenadine
Instructions
- 1. Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice.
- 2. Shake well.
- 3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- 4. Garnish with a slice of orange or a cherry if desired.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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