Pin it
This icy Cherry Rum and Coke Slushie turns an ordinary drink into a cool frozen delight that's great for summer parties. I came up with this during a super hot backyard cookout, and now my friends always ask me to make it whenever we get together.
I first threw this slushie together when I wanted something better than plain rum and coke for a pool get-together. Everyone loved the frozen texture and cherry flavor so much that I now always keep cherry liqueur on hand.
Ingredients
- Rum: 4 oz, go for a nice dark or spiced rum to get richer taste
- Cherry Liqueur: 2 oz, I like using Luxardo or Heering but any type will work fine
- Coca Cola: 2 cans, regular Coke gives you just the right sweetness
- Ice: 2 cups, go with fresh cubes for the best consistency
- Whipped Cream for garnish: homemade cream really makes it special
- Maraschino Cherries for garnish: good quality ones make your drink look extra fancy
How To Make Cherry Rum and Coke Slushie
- Mix Everything Together:
- Throw the rum, cherry liqueur, Coca-Cola, and ice into your blender. I usually put the wet stuff in first to help everything blend better, but it's not a big deal.
- Blend It Up:
- Run on high for about 30-45 seconds. You want it smooth but thick enough that a spoon stands up while still being pourable. Too thick? Add more Coke. Too runny? Toss in extra ice.
- Check The Flavor:
- Take a quick sip before you serve it. This really matters for getting it just right. Not sweet enough? Pour in a bit more Coke. Want more cherry? Add a dash of liqueur. Need it stronger? Splash in some extra rum.
- Pour It Nicely:
- Fill chilled glasses with your slushie mix. Putting your glasses in the freezer for about 15 minutes beforehand keeps everything frosty longer, especially when it's hot outside.
- Dress It Up:
- Add a big swirl of whipped cream and pop a maraschino cherry on top. The cream slowly melts into the drink, making pretty swirls throughout.
Pin it
The cherry liqueur really makes this drink special. When I first tried making it, I only used rum, but adding cherry liqueur takes it from just frozen to totally amazing. It reminds me of those cherry Cokes my grandma would buy me at our local diner, but with a grown-up twist.
Freezer Friendly Tips
You can make this slushie mix ahead and keep it in the freezer. Just pour everything into a container that won't crack and freeze it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready, take it out and let it sit for about 10 minutes, then break it up with a fork before serving. It won't be quite as perfect as fresh, but it'll save you tons of time when hosting.
Creative Variations
Try playing around with different rums. White rum gives you a lighter taste, spiced rum adds some interesting flavors, and dark rum brings in those rich molasses notes that go great with cherry. You can also switch up your soda - maybe cherry Coke for extra cherry flavor or vanilla Coke for a creamy feel. Some of my friends even like adding a squeeze of lime to brighten it all up.
Make It A Mocktail
You can easily turn this into a tasty non-alcoholic drink. Just swap the rum for 2 ounces of water and use 1 ounce of grenadine or cherry syrup instead of the liqueur. You'll get all the yummy flavor without any alcohol, which is perfect for drivers or anyone who doesn't drink. I've made this version at family gatherings and the kids love having drinks that look fancy like what the adults are having.
Pin it
Presentation Ideas
While this slushie tastes great in any glass, it looks awesome in clear hurricane glasses that show off its dark color. For special occasions, try putting cherry sugar around the rim before pouring. A little mint leaf on top looks pretty against the dark drink and adds a nice smell that goes well with the sweet cherry. Black and white striped straws give it that old-school soda fountain feel that matches the nostalgic cola flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is it okay to use flavored cola instead?
Absolutely! Flavors like vanilla or cherry cola can add a fun twist. Just tweak the sweetness if needed.
- → Which type of rum is best for this drink?
Light rum blends smoothly with the cherry and Coke flavors, making it a great choice. Dark rum works too if you want a stronger taste.
- → How can I make the slushie thicker?
Just toss in a bit more ice before blending to get that perfect frosty texture.
- → What if I want a non-alcoholic version?
Swap out rum and cherry liqueur with cherry juice or syrup for a tasty mocktail alternative.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
It tastes best freshly blended, but you can pre-chill the ingredients to save time when serving.
- → Any other garnish ideas?
Out of cherries or cream? Try sprigs of fresh mint or a lime wedge for a simple garnish.