8 Best Cocktails With Coconut Rum

Coconut rum is a versatile liquor that mixes well in many classic and tropical cocktails. The nutty, vanilla flavors of coconut rum can elevate simple mixed drinks into a tropical escape in a glass.

Coconut rum originated in the Caribbean and adds a touch of the islands to cocktails. While you can always substitute regular rum in cocktail recipes, the best cocktails with coconut rum truly allow the coconut flavors to shine through.

Some of the most popular brands of coconut rum include Malibu, Bacardi Coconut, Captain Morgan Coconut, and Coco Lopez. Coconut rum usually contains about 20-35% alcohol by volume (ABV).

Cocktails With Coconut Rum — Photo by On Shot

Here are some of the tasting notes of coconut rum

Sweet – Coconut rum has a pronounced sweetness, akin to coconut candy or suntan lotion.
Nutty – Strong coconut and toasted nut flavors come through.
Vanilla – The oak barrel aging adds hints of vanilla and caramel.
Creamy – The rich texture coats the palate.
Tropical – Bright, fruity notes like pineapple and citrus complement the coconut.

1. Piña Colada

No list of cocktails is complete without Piña Colada, the famous drink with coconut rum. This drink mixes coconut rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut. When you blend these with ice, you get a smooth, cold drink perfect for hot days. A slice of pineapple and a cherry on top make it look as good as it tastes.

To enjoy a Piña Colada, you don’t need a beach. You can bring the beach vibe to your home or party. Imagine sipping this drink, feeling like you’re on vacation any day.

How to enjoy it:

Serve in a hollowed-out pineapple for a fun touch.
Add a fancy straw and decorations to make it special.
Enjoy with friends at a pool party or a summer get-together.
Pair with light snacks like tropical fruits or shrimp cocktails.
Play some island music to set the mood.

2. Coconut Mojito

A Coconut Mojito adds a tropical twist to the classic mojito. Coconut rum with fresh mint and lime creates a refreshing drink. First, you crush mint leaves and lime in a glass. Then, add coconut rum, a bit of soda, and ice. A few mint leaves and lime slices make it look fresh and inviting.

This drink is perfect for warm evenings. Its mix of sweet, sour, and minty flavors refreshes and delights.

How to enjoy it:

Make a big batch for friends at a BBQ.
Serve in tall glasses to show off the layers.
Use fresh mint for the best taste.
Add extra lime for a zesty kick.
Enjoy outdoors on a sunny day or at a rooftop party.

3. Bahama Mama

The Bahama Mama takes you straight to the islands. This drink mixes different rums and tropical juices. You blend coconut rum, dark rum, orange and pineapple juices, grenadine, and a bit of strong rum with ice. For extra fun, you can decorate the glass edge with cookie crumbs or coconut bits, like a sandy beach.

This fruity, strong drink is perfect for letting loose and having fun. The coconut rum adds a special touch that makes you think of the Caribbean.

How to enjoy it:

Serve in glasses with fun decorations.
Add a small umbrella or a twisty straw.
Enjoy at parties or when you want to feel on vacation.
Garnish with tropical fruits for an extra island feel.
Share with friends to spread the tropical vibe.

4. Painkiller

The Painkiller, from the British Virgin Islands, usually uses a specific rum. But, coconut rum is a tasty choice too. You shake coconut rum with pineapple and orange juices over ice. Pour it over crushed ice in a glass and add some nutmeg on top.

This drink takes your taste to the tropics with its mix of pineapple and coconut. It’s perfect for sipping outside on a warm day, making every sip feel like a mini vacation.

How to enjoy it:

Top with fresh grated nutmeg for an aromatic finish.
Serve in a big glass to enjoy more of this delicious drink.
Add a pineapple slice or a cherry for a colorful garnish.
Enjoy with friends during a sunny day picnic or beach outing.
Pair with tropical snacks to enhance the island experience.

5. Miami Vice

The Miami Vice cocktail brings back the cool 80s style with a mix of coconut rum and strawberry. You make one layer with a blend of coconut rum, cream of coconut, and pineapple juice. The other layer is strawberry daiquiri mix or puree with rum. This creates a fun pink and white look in your glass.

This retro drink is perfect for themed parties or just for when you want something fun and different.

How to enjoy it:

Garnish with lime wedges, strawberries, or little umbrellas for extra flair.
Serve in a clear glass to show off the dual layers.
Enjoy while watching classic 80s movies or listening to 80s music.
Make it for friends at a retro-themed party.
Sip slowly to enjoy the mix of flavors.

6. Blue Hawaiian

Say hello to the Blue Hawaiian, a drink that looks as good as it tastes. It combines coconut rum, pineapple juice, and blue curacao for a bright, tropical taste. You make this drink in a tall glass filled with ice, layering the rum, juice, and curacao.

This sweet drink is a great choice for pool parties or any time you want to feel like you’re in Hawaii.

How to enjoy it:

Decorate with pineapple chunks, cherries, or paper umbrellas for a festive look.
Serve in a hurricane glass to fit more of this delicious drink.
Enjoy by the pool or during a summer garden party.
Share with friends to bring a piece of the tropics to any gathering.
Let the bright blue color brighten your day.

7. Coconut Martini

The Coconut Martini adds a touch of elegance with its mix of coconut rum and vanilla vodka. You just shake the rum and vodka with ice, then strain it into a chilled martini glass. A bit of toasted coconut on the rim or a cocktail umbrella makes it special.

This sophisticated drink is perfect for more formal gatherings or when you just want to treat yourself.

How to enjoy it:

Serve in a chilled martini glass for a classic touch.
Garnish with toasted coconut for a bit of crunch.
Enjoy as a special after-dinner drink.
Make it for a date night at home.
Savor each sip for a luxurious experience.

8. Mudslide

End on a sweet note with the Mudslide, a grown-up milkshake that blends coconut rum with coffee liqueur. Mix coconut rum, coffee liqueur, Irish cream, and vanilla ice cream in a blender. Pour it into a chilled glass and top with chocolate shavings.

This dessert cocktail is a fantastic way to celebrate or just indulge on a whim.

How to enjoy it:

Top with whipped cream and chocolate for extra decadence.
Serve in a tall glass with a straw and spoon.
Enjoy as a dessert at the end of a meal.
Make it for a cozy night in.
Share with someone special for a sweet treat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coconut Rum Cocktails

1. What is the best coconut rum for cocktails?

Some of the best coconut rums for cocktails are Malibu, Bacardi Coconut, and Coco Lopez. Look for a rum with natural coconut flavors, not artificial. Avoid very cheap coconut rums, as they can taste overly synthetic.

2. What can I mix with coconut rum?

Coconut rum mixes well with fruit juices like pineapple, orange, cranberry, and lime. It also complements Midori, Bailey’s Irish cream, Kahlua, amaretto, vanilla vodka, and spiced rums. For non-alcoholic mixers, try coconut water, ginger beer, cola, or lemon-lime soda.

3. Are coconut rum cocktails gluten-free?

Yes, coconut rum itself is gluten-free. As long as you avoid grain-based mixers like certain cream liquors, coconut rum cocktails are gluten-free. Always check the ingredients of each component just to be safe.

4. Can coconut rum be substituted for regular rum?

In most cases, yes. Coconut rum can replace white or golden rum in cocktail recipes, especially tropical drinks. The coconut flavor may come through slightly, but it will still taste great. Avoid swapping it for dark rums.

5. How long does homemade coconut rum last?

Homemade coconut-infused rum will last about 1-2 months stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Keep an eye out for any changes in color or odor. Properly stored, the coconut flavor should remain robust.