The Guava Rum Cocktail is a tropical delight that combines the sweet, fragrant flavor of guava with the smooth warmth of white rum. Brightened with fresh lime juice and balanced by a hint of simple syrup, this refreshing drink is a go-to for summer gatherings, beachside sipping, or simply when you need a quick tropical escape. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and endlessly adaptable with fun twists.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 oz white rum

• 4 oz guava nectar

• ½ oz fresh lime juice

• ½ oz simple syrup

• Ice cubes

• Guava slice and lime wheel, for garnish

Directions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

2. Add white rum, guava nectar, lime juice, and simple syrup.

3. Shake well for 15–20 seconds until chilled.

4. Strain into a highball or Collins glass filled with fresh ice.

5. Garnish with a slice of guava and a lime wheel.

6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrients (per cocktail, estimated)

• Calories: 180

• Carbohydrates: ~20g

• Sugar: ~17g

• Alcohol Volume: ~14% ABV

• Fat & Protein: Negligible

Why Guava Makes This Cocktail Shine

Guava is one of the most aromatic and flavorful tropical fruits, often described as a cross between strawberry and pear, with a hint of floral musk. Guava nectar, which is thicker and sweeter than juice, gives this cocktail a rich, velvety texture and a beautiful coral hue that looks stunning in the glass.

Its naturally sweet profile makes it a great mixer that doesn’t require much added sugar. In this cocktail, a modest amount of simple syrup is all you need to round out the flavor and bring harmony to the tart lime and boozy rum.

White Rum: The Smooth Backbone

White rum provides the perfect base for this cocktail, offering subtle warmth without overpowering the delicate guava flavor. Its light, slightly sweet profile blends seamlessly with fruit juices, making it a staple in tropical mixology. Whether you use a Cuban-style rum for a drier touch or a Caribbean white rum for a slightly more rounded flavor, this spirit brings balance and structure to the drink.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with flavored rums like coconut or passion fruit for extra dimension. Spiced rum can also add a warm, aromatic twist, especially for evening occasions or cooler weather.

Citrus & Sweet: The Balancing Act

Fresh lime juice is essential in this recipe—it cuts through the sweetness of the guava nectar and lifts the drink with a burst of tartness. Bottled lime juice won’t deliver the same freshness, so squeeze it straight from the fruit if possible.

The simple syrup brings everything together, ensuring a smooth and even sweetness across the palate. It also helps highlight the fruit flavors and gives the cocktail a more polished finish. You can adjust the amount of syrup to taste, or swap it with honey syrup or agave nectar for a natural alternative.

Presentation: A Drink That’s a Feast for the Eyes

The Guava Rum Cocktail isn’t just delicious—it’s beautiful. Its pink-orange hue pops against the green of a lime wheel or the yellow blush of a guava slice, making it a showpiece at any gathering.

Serve it in a Collins or highball glass filled with ice to keep it chilled and refreshing. If you’re entertaining, consider rimming the glass with pink salt or chili-lime seasoning for added flair and a punch of flavor. Edible flowers, mint sprigs, or colorful straws can also enhance the presentation.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This cocktail is a versatile crowd-pleaser for many occasions:

• Summer parties and barbecues

• Beach days or poolside lounging

• Tropical-themed dinners

• Brunches with fruit-forward menus

• Romantic evenings or sunset happy hours

It’s also a fantastic option for a signature wedding or event cocktail, especially with a customized name and personalized garnish.

Easy to Batch for Groups

One of the best things about this cocktail is how easy it is to batch. Simply multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher or drink dispenser. Serve it over ice in individual glasses, and offer garnishes on the side so guests can personalize their drinks.

Here’s a quick batch version for 8 servings:

• 2 cups white rum

• 4 cups guava nectar

• ½ cup fresh lime juice

• ½ cup simple syrup

Combine everything in a pitcher with ice, stir, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Flavor Variations to Try

While the original is perfection in a glass, the Guava Rum Cocktail is easy to customize:

• Spicy Guava: Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker or a dash of chili tincture.

• Frozen Guava Daiquiri-style: Blend with crushed ice for a slushy version.

• Minty Mojito Twist: Muddle mint leaves in the shaker for a guava mojito hybrid.

• Pineapple Guava Punch: Add a splash of pineapple juice for tropical complexity.

• Sparkling Guava Spritz: Top with sparkling water or prosecco for a bubbly variation.

Nutritional Profile at a Glance

This cocktail sits at around 180 calories per serving, with approximately 20g of carbohydrates and 17g of sugar, mostly from the guava nectar and simple syrup. It contains roughly 14% alcohol by volume (ABV), making it a moderately strong drink that’s best sipped and savored.

To reduce sugar, consider halving the syrup or using a light, unsweetened guava juice alternative.

Tips for Cocktail Perfection

• Chill your glassware for a longer-lasting cold drink.

• Shake vigorously to ensure the syrup is fully incorporated.

• Double-strain if you prefer a smoother finish without pulp from the guava or lime.

• Use quality ice—clear, large cubes melt slower and dilute less.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Drink

The Guava Rum Cocktail is not only refreshing—it’s effortlessly stylish. It’s the kind of cocktail that feels like a mini vacation in a glass: vibrant, tropical, smooth, and just boozy enough to make the moment feel special. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and stunning look make it one of those go-to recipes you’ll want to make again and again, especially as the weather warms up.

Conclusion

The Guava Rum Cocktail is a celebration of tropical flavors and easy elegance. With its silky guava nectar, zingy lime, and smooth white rum, it’s a drink that delivers both on taste and presentation. Whether you’re making one to enjoy on a sunny afternoon or mixing a pitcher for friends, this cocktail brings joy, refreshment, and a touch of paradise to any occasion. Make it once, and it’ll quickly become one of your favorite warm-weather sips.