Rum and Coke Cocktail – The Low-Key Legend

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By Alex

Posted on

Cocktails

Difficulty

Easy

Prep time

5 mins

Total time

5 mins

Servings

1

Sometimes you don’t need fancy—just something that hits right. Enter the Rum and Coke. It’s simple, satisfying and always welcome, whether you’re winding down solo or getting the playlist going for a house hang.

Picture it: a tall glass packed with ice, rich amber rum swirling into dark cola, finished with a lime wedge that adds just the right little zing. It’s sweet, warm and endlessly drinkable—like the cocktail version of your favorite go-to hoodie.

The beauty? It’s easy to tweak. Want it smooth and mellow? Go heavy on the cola. Feeling bold? Let the rum lead. Either way, you’re getting that comforting mix of caramel, spice and fizz that makes this combo a classic.

No pretense, just good vibes in a glass.

The Allure of Rum and Coke

rum coke cocktail

Some cocktails are all about flair. Others? All about feel. The rum and coke is the latter—a low-effort, high-reward kind of drink that’s been holding it down for decades. No frills, no fancy techniques, just the smooth mix of rich rum and fizzy cola doing exactly what you need it to do—refresh, relax and remind you that simple can be iconic.

It’s that go-to pour when you want something easy but satisfying. Sweet, warm and just enough edge to shake off the day. Whether you’re solo on the couch or laughing around a table with friends, this one fits the moment every time.

Why It Hits

The magic is in the mix. Cola brings the sparkle and sweetness, rum brings that depth and caramel warmth, and together? They’re pure balance in a glass. It’s familiar, nostalgic and surprisingly versatile depending on how you build it. Prefer bold and spiced? Go with dark rum. Want it clean and light? White rum’s your move. Swap in diet cola, Coke Zero, even Pepsi—whatever’s in your fridge works just fine.

Set the Scene

Now imagine this: low lighting, your favorite playlist humming in the background, a tall glass clinking with ice and condensation forming on the outside. You pick it up, sip and feel everything just chill out a bit. That’s the rum and coke vibe. Cozy enough for a night in, easygoing enough for a casual party, intimate enough for late-night catch-ups at your go-to bar.

Lime Makes It Shine

Want to take it up a notch? Add a lime wedge. That little pop of citrus isn’t just for looks (though it does look good)—it brightens everything up and balances the sweetness with a subtle tang. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.

Make It Yours

One of the best things about this cocktail? It’s yours to shape. Like it boozy? Dial up the rum. Prefer it smooth? Ease back and let the cola lead. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure drink that welcomes all comers and works with whatever vibe you’ve got going.

Perfect Pairings

Food-wise, the rum and coke’s a team player. That slight sweetness and carbonation make it a great match for savory snacks, salty bites or even a spicy plate. We’re talking charcuterie, sliders, wings, plantain chips, or grilled anything. It keeps your palate fresh while the flavors mingle like old friends.

A Drink That Knows How to Hang

At the end of the day, the rum and coke isn’t trying to be trendy—it’s just effortlessly good. It’s that easy comfort, that one reliable mix you can count on. And sometimes, that’s exactly what the moment calls for.

So next time you’re looking for a drink that won’t let you down, pour yourself a rum and coke. It’s timeless, flexible and always ready to turn a regular night into something just a little better.

Rum & Coke: The Classic That Keeps It Chill

coke and rum

Fast to make, easy to love. The rum and coke is your classic go-to when you want something with flavor and zero fuss. Rich rum meets sweet, fizzy cola over a pile of ice, finished with a lime wedge that adds just the right twist. It’s smooth, refreshing and ready for whatever the night brings.

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces of Rum (light or dark)
  • 4 ounces of Cola (Coke, Pepsi or whatever brand you have locally)
  • 1 lime wedge
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour the rum over the ice.
  3. Add the cola to the glass and stir gently to combine.
  4. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.

Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 1 cocktail
  • Calories: 174kcal
  • Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g

And one to pin for later:

rum and coke cocktail

Fancy some more rum cocktails? Why not dry a daiquiri, a mojito or a pina colada?

Yield: 1

Rum and Coke Cocktail

rum coke cocktail

The easiest cocktail you'll ever make—but are you making it right? Get the perfect balance of smooth rum and Coke for a refreshing, classic drink.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 60 ml of Rum (light or dark)
  • 120 ml of cola (Coke, Pepsi or whatever brand you have locally)
  • 1 lime wedge
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour the rum over the ice.
  3. Add the cola to the glass and stir gently to combine.
  4. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

1

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 174Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 7mgCarbohydrates: 20gFiber: 2gSugar: 14gProtein: 0g

This nutrition information was automatically calculated by Nutritionix, but may not be 100% accurate.

About the author: Alex

Alex is the creator behind Mocktails ‘n Cocktails, where he stirs up drink inspiration for every kind of host, from the cocktail curious to the sober celebrators. With a love for great flavor and zero fuss, he’s here to help you host gatherings that feel warm, run smoothly and bring people together - no stress required.
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