How to Make the Ultimate Cherry Rum & Coke Slushie

There’s nothing quite like the bliss of sipping on a frosty drink during a sweltering summer afternoon. For me, the inspiration behind this Cherry Rum & Coke Slushie came from a random mix of nostalgia and a craving for something refreshing and spirited. Imagine the classic taste of a cherry cola slushie from your childhood—only now, it’s had a grown-up upgrade with the smooth bite of spiced rum.

Perfect for backyard BBQs, poolside lounging, or simply kicking back with friends, this drink is fun, easy to make, and totally Instagram-worthy. Whether you’re new to making frozen cocktails or a seasoned home bartender, you’ll find this recipe incredibly straightforward. All you need is a blender, a few simple ingredients, and about five minutes of your time.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Rum & Coke Slushie

One of the best parts of this recipe is how it brings together familiar flavors in a new and exciting way. It’s got that fizzy sweetness of Coca-Cola, the rich fruitiness of dark cherries, and the warming spice of a good rum. But what truly makes this drink a standout is the slushie texture. It’s cold, refreshing, and oh-so-satisfying—especially when the heat is relentless.

Better still, you don’t need a fancy cocktail kit or barware to make this slushie magic happen. A basic blender will do the job. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you look like a mixology genius with minimal effort.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down what goes into the ultimate Cherry Rum & Coke Slushie. The beauty of this drink is its simplicity:

• 1 cup frozen dark cherries – These add bold color and flavor.
• ½ cup Coca-Cola – Classic Coke gives the fizz and sweetness. For a lower calorie option, try Diet or Coke Zero.
• 1.5 oz cherry or spiced rum – Cherry rum gives the best flavor match, but spiced or even dark rum works beautifully too.
• 1 to 1½ cups ice – Crushed ice is ideal for faster blending and better slushie texture.
• Optional: splash of lime juice or cherry syrup – To balance sweetness or intensify cherry flavor.

Want to tweak it? Add a few fresh cherries on top or a dash of vanilla extract for a cola float vibe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this slushie couldn’t be easier. Here’s your go-to method:

Step 1: Load the Blender
Start by adding the frozen cherries and ice to your blender. These form the base of your slushie, so don’t skimp on the ice if you want that thick, frosty texture.

Step 2: Pour in the Coke and Rum
Measure out your Coca-Cola and rum, and pour them over the cherries and ice. If you’re aiming for a stronger drink, you can adjust the rum amount to taste.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Use the “ice crush” or “smoothie” setting on your blender. Blend everything for 30–60 seconds until you reach a uniform slushie consistency. If it looks too watery, toss in a bit more ice.

Step 4: Adjust to Taste
Now’s your chance to fine-tune the flavor. Add a splash of lime juice for a citrus kick or drizzle in cherry syrup for added sweetness. Blend briefly to combine.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Pour into chilled glasses and garnish with a cherry or lime wedge. For the perfect party presentation, serve in mason jars with striped straws.

This refreshing drink is a hit every time. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or just treating yourself, it’s a guaranteed mood-lifter.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Texture and Flavor

Creating the ultimate slushie isn’t just about throwing ingredients in a blender—it’s about achieving that just-right texture and balanced flavor. One common mistake is ending up with a watery drink. To avoid this, make sure your Coke is chilled before adding it to the blender. This helps maintain the icy consistency without melting the ice too quickly.

Another pro move: use crushed ice instead of full cubes. It blends faster and creates a smoother finish. If your slushie tastes too sweet or flat, squeeze in a little lime juice. The acidity cuts through the sweetness and brightens the entire drink. Prefer it sweeter? Add a dash of cherry syrup or even a splash of grenadine for a deeper red color and candy-like flavor.

Best Rums to Use for a Cherry Rum & Coke Slushie

The rum you choose will shape the flavor of your slushie. A classic cherry rum like Captain Morgan Cherry Vanilla Spiced Rum pairs perfectly with the Coke and frozen cherries. It brings a candy-like sweetness with a warm vanilla spice that tastes almost dessert-like.

For those who prefer a more traditional option, dark rums like Bacardi Black or Kraken add richness and complexity. These work especially well if you want to create a “grown-up” feel to the drink. Another go-to is Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum—a bold choice that complements the fruity and fizzy notes without overpowering them.

If you’re looking for more ideas on how to mix up your frozen drinks, check out Frozen Cherry Daiquiris for another fruity favorite!

How to Make It for a Crowd

Want to serve your Cherry Rum & Coke Slushie at a summer BBQ or party? It’s super simple to scale up. Multiply the ingredient quantities based on how many servings you need. Here’s a quick reference:

• 2 servings: 2 cups cherries, 1 cup Coke, 3 oz rum
• 4 servings: 4 cups cherries, 2 cups Coke, 6 oz rum
• 8 servings: 8 cups cherries, 4 cups Coke, 12 oz rum

Blend in batches if your blender can’t handle a large quantity. You can also make a big batch ahead of time and store it in the freezer. Just give it a quick stir or re-blend before serving to revive that perfect slushie texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Sip

The Cherry Rum & Coke Slushie is more than just a drink—it’s a vibe. It’s the sound of summer parties, the chill of poolside lounging, and the taste of good times. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and a total crowd-pleaser. So grab your blender, pour in the fun, and let this frozen cocktail become your go-to recipe for sunny days.

Want more frozen drink inspiration? Don’t miss our Cherry Rum and Coke Slushie Recipe for alternate versions and reader-favorite tips.