This Captain and Coke recipe is a delicious and refreshing two-ingredient cocktail that is perfect to serve any time of year. Whether it’s a sunny summer afternoon or a cozy winter evening, this drink is sure to please. Learn to make this classic cocktail and explore other exciting variations of the popular rum and coke drink to serve at your next gathering or party!
If you’re looking for more rum drinks to tantalize your taste buds, be sure to check out the Tropical Rum Drinks page! There, you will find a variety of recipes that highlight the versatility of rum in cocktails, from fruity concoctions to more robust mixes.
Aye mateys, rather than creating a basic rum & coke, I decided to craft this drink in honor of my favorite pirate, the legendary Captain Jack Sparrow. I can just picture Captain Jack Sparrow stumbling around in the sand with this simple yet delightful cocktail in his hand, can’t you? His adventurous spirit and love for the sea make this drink a fitting tribute.
Of course, I am sure he would not have turned down a Rum Runner, Hurricane Cocktail, or Caribbean Rum Punch either! Each of these drinks has its own unique flavor profile and charm, but there’s something about the simplicity of a Captain and Coke that makes it a timeless choice.
What you will need:
Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum is the preferred rum for this drink, but I am not the rum police, and I am sure any other good quality rum will work just as well. The spiced notes of Captain Morgan add a delightful complexity to the drink, enhancing the overall flavor. Coca-Cola is the preferred choice for cola because of its rich flavor profile. Coke has an almost spicy undertone that is missing in Pepsi, making it a better match for the spiced rum. More on this later, as we dive deeper into the flavor dynamics of this cocktail.
A Lime Wedge is squeezed into the drink and then dropped in as a garnish. The lime adds a refreshing citrus note that balances the sweetness of the cola and the spiciness of the rum, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Ice Cubes are essential to cool down the cocktail and fill up the rest of the glass. You will also need highball glasses or Collins glasses and a jigger for measuring the ingredients accurately. Using the right glassware not only enhances the presentation but also allows for the perfect mixing of flavors.
Be sure to check out the detailed printable recipe card below for precise measurements and instructions.
How to make a Captain and Coke
A traditional Captain and Coke is made with a ratio of 1 part spiced rum to 2.5 parts cola. For example, two ounces of rum and five ounces of cola will fit nicely into a 12-ounce highball glass filled with lots of ice. This ratio ensures that the flavors are balanced, allowing the spiced rum to shine through without being overpowered by the cola.
To prepare your Captain and Coke, start by adding ice cubes to a highball glass. Pour in the spiced rum, allowing it to settle at the bottom. Next, top off the glass with cola, filling it to your desired level. If you find that you need more ice cubes, feel free to add them at this stage.
Squeeze a lime wedge over the top of the drink to release its juices, and then drop it into the cocktail for added flavor. The lime not only enhances the taste but also adds a pop of color to your drink. Use a drink stirrer or straw to gently combine the ingredients, ensuring that the rum and cola mix well together. Serve immediately for the best experience.
Are there other cola options?
Yes, there are many different options for colas to suit everyone’s tastes. For instance, Mexican Coca-Cola is made with sugar cane, which gives it a distinct flavor profile compared to the regular Coca-Cola that is typically sold with high-fructose corn syrup. This difference in sweeteners can significantly alter the taste, making it a favorite among many cola enthusiasts.
Pepsi is another obvious choice for cola lovers, but it’s not the only option available. There are also craft soda companies that produce small-batch colas, both locally and nationwide. These craft sodas often use unique ingredients and recipes, resulting in a variety of flavors that can surprise and delight your palate.
What about different flavorings?
Feel free to use a cherry, vanilla, or orange flavored soda to change things up. You can also add flavored simple syrups like cherry, vanilla, strawberry, or ginger for an extra spiced flavor. These additions can elevate your drink, making it more exciting and personalized to your taste.
If spiced rum is not your thing, you can substitute dark rum, which is technically a Cuba Libre, or silver rum for a more traditional rum & coke experience. Each type of rum brings its own character to the drink, allowing you to explore different flavor combinations.
Tools used to create this drink
You can see the rest of my favorite kitchen tools and gadgets here on my Amazon Affiliate Page. I earn a small commission when you purchase through my links, at no cost to you, so I can keep bringing you more delicious recipes!
Additional two-ingredient cocktails
- Texas Ranch Water – tequila and Topo Chico mineral water.
- Paloma Cocktail – grapefruit soda and tequila.
- Classic Gin and Tonic
- Jameson & Ginger – Irish whiskey and ginger ale.
- Blue Lemonade – lemonade and blue vodka.
- Chambord Royale – raspberry liqueur and prosecco.
- Berry Wine Smoothie – frozen berries and wine in a blender!
Captain and Coke
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Captain Morgan’s Spiced Rum
- 5 ounces Coca-Cola
- Ice cubes
- 1 lime wedge
Instructions
- Add ice cubes to a highball glass and pour in the spiced rum. If using a flavored syrup, add it with the ice.
- Top off with cola, wait for the bubbles to settle, and add more ice cubes if needed.
- Squeeze a lime wedge over the top of the drink and then drop it into the cocktail. Use a drink stirrer/straw to gently combine the ingredients and serve immediately
