
Nothing cools off a summer heatwave or kicks off a festive movie night quite like a cherry rum and Coke slushie You get all the nostalgia of those old school soda shop treats with the grown up twist of rum and juicy cherry liqueur
The first time I made this slushie was for an outdoor barbecue and friends still talk about it two summers later Whenever I bring out the blender it means a good time is about to start
Ingredients
- Rum: brings depth and that classic summer kick White rum keeps it light while dark rum adds warmth Go for a brand you enjoy sipping on its own
- Cherry liqueur: deepens the cherry flavor and adds a bit of sweetness Choose a liqueur that tastes fresh not artificial I love using one with real fruit notes
- Coca Cola: delivers that signature fizz and sweetness Always chill your cans well before blending for the smoothest texture
- Ice: transforms everything into a frozen treat Use clean filtered ice for the purest taste
- Whipped cream (optional): adds a diner style indulgence Freshly whipped cream holds up best if you want to pile it high
- Maraschino cherries (optional): so much fun to garnish with Look for bright firm cherries packed in syrup for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Chill the Ingredients:
- Start by placing your cans of Coke and bottle of cherry liqueur in the fridge for at least an hour This ensures your slushie will blend up icy smooth rather than watery Keeping everything cold is the secret to amazing texture
- Blend the Slushie:
- Measure out four ounces of your preferred rum and two ounces of cherry liqueur Pour them into a high speed blender Add two cups of ice and pour in one chilled can of Coca Cola Blend starting on low speed then increase to high until everything is thick slushy and no ice chunks remain
- Adjust to Taste:
- Dip a spoon in to taste If you want more cherry sweetness add another splash of liqueur For a stronger cola flavor slowly add up to another can of Coke If slushie is too thick toss in extra soda If it is too thin just add a few more ice cubes and pulse to combine
- Serve in Style:
- Pour everything into the coldest glasses you have Tall soda shop glasses work beautifully but lowball glasses are great if you like a more concentrated pour
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Finish with a crown of whipped cream and top each glass with a maraschino cherry or two For extra fun lightly drizzle a bit more cherry liqueur over the whipped cream You will get a swirl of color and an extra pop of flavor

My favorite part of making these is always dropping in the maraschino cherry just before serving We call that the cherry on top moment in my family because even grown ups cannot resist it
How to Store and Make Ahead
If you have leftovers pour them into an airtight container and freeze The texture will stiffen but you can pulse in a blender with a splash of Coke to revive it for round two I often make a large batch of the base ahead for parties storing in the freezer and blending right before serving for extra frosty slushies
Ingredient Swaps
Try flavored colas like cherry vanilla or a zero sugar version for a twist You can swap in orange liqueur for extra zip or use coconut rum for a tropical spin If cherry liqueur is too sweet just cut back and add a squeeze of lemon juice to balance Each variation brings something new
Serving Suggestions
This is basically dessert and cocktail all together so pair with simple snacks like salted popcorn spiced nuts or chocolate covered cherries For ultra summery vibes serve in vintage soda glasses with fun paper straws The whipped cream and cherry swirl always look extra festive at sunset parties

Party Ready Every Time
Cherry rum and Coke slushies are a guaranteed way to kickstart spirits at any gathering They bridge nostalgia and celebration with every sip Next time you want a grown up treat just blend up a batch and watch everyone light up
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use diet cola for this drink?
Yes, diet cola works well and will give you a lighter, less sweet result. Adjust other ingredients to taste.
- → What type of rum is best?
White or dark rum both suit the slushie. White rum gives a lighter flavor, while dark adds depth and richness.
- → How can I thicken the slushie?
Simply add more ice and blend until you reach your desired consistency for a thicker texture.
- → Is whipped cream necessary?
Whipped cream is optional but adds a creamy touch and soda shop nostalgia to the finished drink.
- → Can this drink be made alcohol-free?
Omit the rum and cherry liqueur, then add cherry syrup to taste for a family-friendly version.
- → How can I enhance the cherry flavor?
For extra cherry intensity, use more cherry liqueur or finish with a syrup drizzle over the whipped cream.