Rum Rum Rudolph is the ultimate holiday twist on a classic rum and Coke. With the addition of tart cherry juice and a playful rosemary-and-cherry garnish, this cocktail captures the festive magic of the season. Inspired by Rudolph’s iconic red nose, it’s the perfect drink to bring cheer to your next Christmas party or cozy winter gathering. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just looking to jazz up your usual pour, this merry mix will have everyone singing carols in no time.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Holiday-ready – A festive red color with a garnish that looks like Rudolph!
- Easy to make – Only 5 minutes and a few simple ingredients.
- Flavorful – Sweet cola, tart cherry juice, and smooth rum.
- Instagram-worthy – That rosemary antler garnish steals the show.
- Versatile – Make it with dark or white rum to suit your style.
Ingredients
- 2 oz white or dark rum
- 4 oz Coca-Cola
- 1.5 oz tart cherry juice
- 1 maraschino cherry
- 1 rosemary sprig
- Ice
Instructions
- Make the Garnish
Cut the rosemary sprig into two small 2-inch pieces. Strip leaves from the lower half. Use a toothpick to poke two small holes in the top of the cherry and insert the rosemary to resemble antlers. - Assemble the Drink
Fill a Collins glass with ice. Pour in the rum, Coca-Cola, and tart cherry juice. - Stir and Garnish
Stir gently to combine. Garnish with your cherry Rudolph. - Serve
Serve immediately with a straw or cocktail stirrer for full effect.
Recipe Details

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Tips & Variations
- Use spiced rum for a warmer, holiday spice note.
- Try cherry cola for even more cherry flavor.
- Make it a mocktail by skipping the rum and using extra cherry juice.
- Batch it! Multiply by 4 or 6 for a pitcher-perfect party drink.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, mix the rum, cola, and cherry juice in advance and store chilled. Add ice and garnish just before serving.
What kind of cherry juice should I use?
Look for 100% tart cherry juice, not sweetened cocktail cherry juice.
What if I don’t have rosemary?
Use cocktail picks and skip the “antlers” or sub with festive greenery like thyme sprigs.

Rum Rum Rudolph
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut rosemary into two 2″ sprigs. Remove lower leaves.
- Poke 2 holes in cherry and insert rosemary to look like antlers.
- Fill a Collins glass with ice.
- Add rum, Coca-Cola, and tart cherry juice.
- Stir gently.
- Garnish with your “Rudolph” cherry and serve.
Notes
– Cherry cola works great
– Skip alcohol for a kid-friendly version
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quick, eye-catching drink with major holiday spirit, the Rum Rum Rudolph is your go-to. Sweet, tart, and playful—it’s the perfect nod to everyone’s favorite red-nosed reindeer. Make one (or a batch) and toast to a very merry season!












