Daiquiris are classic cocktails that combine rum, lime, and sugar into a refreshing drink perfect for any occasion.
Whether you prefer the traditional Cuban style or exciting fruity variations, there’s a daiquiri recipe to suit your taste.
The simple three-ingredient base makes it an ideal cocktail for beginners while still offering enough complexity for experienced mixologists to create impressive variations.
These versatile drinks can be served shaken and strained for an elegant presentation or blended with ice for a cooling frozen treat on hot summer days.
From Hemingway’s favorite version to modern interpretations with added fruits and spices, daiquiris have evolved while maintaining their essential character.
You’ll find that mastering a few key daiquiri recipes can elevate your home bartending skills and impress your guests at your next gathering.
1. Classic Daiquiri Recipe
The classic daiquiri is a simple yet elegant cocktail that requires just three ingredients. You’ll need white rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.
To make this timeless drink, combine 2 parts white rum, 1 part fresh lime juice, and 1 part simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
Some recipes suggest using just 1 part rum if you prefer a less strong drink.
Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
This is the daiquiri in its purest form – no frills, just a bracing blend of flavors that perfectly balances sweetness and citrus.
2. Hemingway Daiquiri
The Hemingway Daiquiri is a refreshing cocktail with historical ties to the famous writer Ernest Hemingway. This drink is known for being less sweet than a traditional daiquiri.
To make this classic cocktail, you’ll need 2 ounces of white rum, 3/4 ounce of fresh lime juice, 1/2 ounce of fresh grapefruit juice, and 1/2 ounce of maraschino liqueur.
Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled, then strain into a cocktail glass. You can garnish with a lime wheel for an extra touch.
The combination of citrus flavors with the maraschino creates a dry, balanced drink that’s perfect for warm weather.
3. Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri
The frozen strawberry daiquiri is a perfect summer drink that’s easy to make at home. You’ll need frozen strawberries, white rum, lime juice, and sugar syrup.
What makes this drink special is using frozen strawberries instead of ice. This prevents the flavor from becoming diluted and creates the perfect slushy texture.
To prepare, simply add a cup of frozen strawberries, 5 tablespoons of light rum, 1-2 tablespoons of lime juice, and sugar syrup to taste in a blender.
For the best results, you can use a mix of fresh and frozen strawberries.
Blend everything until smooth and serve immediately in chilled glasses.
4. Mango Passion Daiquiri
The Mango Passion Daiquiri combines tropical flavors for a refreshing cocktail experience. This fruity blend is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you crave a taste of the tropics.
To make this daiquiri, add 1 cup of frozen mango, 2 ounces of passion fruit pulp, 1.5 ounces of white rum, and 1 ounce of lime juice to your blender. Add ice and blend until smooth.
You can substitute passion fruit syrup if you can’t find the pulp. Some recipes also use passion fruit rum instead of white rum for extra flavor.
This easy-to-make cocktail balances sweet mango with tangy passion fruit and zesty lime. Garnish with a lime wheel or mango slice for a finishing touch.
5. Banana Daiquiri Delight
The Banana Daiquiri brings a tropical twist to the classic cocktail. Mix 1½ ounces of light rum with 1 ounce of fresh lime juice and ½ ounce of triple sec. Add half a large sliced banana and a teaspoon of sugar.
For a more sophisticated version, try using aged Caribbean rum (1⅔ oz) with Giffard Banane du Brésil (1 oz) and fresh lime juice (½ oz). This combination creates a complex flavor profile that highlights the banana.
You can make either a shaken or frozen version. For frozen, blend the ingredients with ice until smooth. The result is a creamy, refreshing drink perfect for warm days.
6. Spiced Rum Daiquiri
The Spiced Rum Daiquiri offers a flavorful twist on the classic cocktail. This version swaps traditional white rum for spiced rum, adding warmth and complexity to the drink.
To make this cocktail, combine 2 oz of spiced rum with 1 oz of fresh lime juice and 1/2 oz of simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. For extra flavor, consider using vanilla simple syrup.
Shake well and strain into a coupe glass. Some recipes include a few drops of bitters for added depth.
You can also personalize your Spiced Daiquiri by muddling fresh fruit like pineapple to complement the spiced rum’s flavor profile.
7. Pineapple Daiquiri
The Pineapple Daiquiri adds a tropical twist to the classic cocktail. This refreshing drink combines rum with sweet pineapple and tart lime.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need 2 oz white rum (Barbancourt works well), 1 oz unsweetened pineapple juice, 1/2 oz lime juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup or demerara syrup.
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously until well-chilled. Strain the mixture into a coupe glass for an elegant presentation.
Garnish with a pineapple wedge for the finishing touch. The sweet pineapple balances perfectly with the rum and lime, creating a delightful summer drink.
8. Watermelon Basil Daiquiri
The Watermelon Basil Daiquiri combines sweet, juicy watermelon with aromatic basil for a refreshing summer cocktail. This drink offers a perfect balance of fruit and herb flavors.
To make this daiquiri, muddle fresh watermelon chunks with basil leaves, sugar and lime juice in a cocktail shaker until well combined. Add crushed ice and rum, then shake thoroughly.
For a blended version, combine watermelon, basil, rum, simple syrup and lime juice in a blender. Use ripe watermelon for the best flavor.
This cocktail works well with white rum, though vodka can be substituted if preferred. Garnish with a small watermelon wedge and basil leaf.
9. Coconut Lime Daiquiri
The Coconut Lime Daiquiri offers a tropical twist on the classic cocktail. This refreshing drink combines coconut rum, fresh lime juice, and cream of coconut.
To make this daiquiri, you’ll need 2 ounces of coconut rum, 1 ounce of fresh lime juice, and about 4 ounces of cream of coconut. Combine these ingredients with ice in a blender for a frozen version.
For an enhanced flavor, you can infuse your rum with lime zest. Simply combine the rum and zest, let it sit for a few minutes, then strain before mixing.
This cocktail balances sweetness and tartness perfectly. It’s dangerously easy to drink and perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want a tropical escape.
10. Blackberry Vanilla Daiquiri
The Blackberry Vanilla Daiquiri combines sweet vanilla notes with tart blackberries for a sophisticated twist on the classic daiquiri. This cocktail balances fruity and creamy flavors perfectly.
To make this drink, you’ll need 2 oz white rum, 1/2 cup fresh blackberries, 1 oz lime juice, 3/4 oz simple syrup, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract. Muddle the blackberries in a cocktail shaker before adding the other ingredients.
Add ice and shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker is frosty. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to remove any blackberry seeds.
Garnish with a fresh blackberry or lime wheel for an elegant presentation that highlights the drink’s vibrant purple color.
11. Ginger Mint Daiquiri
The Ginger Mint Daiquiri brings a refreshing twist to the classic daiquiri with its bright, aromatic flavors. This cocktail combines rum, simple syrup, fresh lime juice, and ginger mint leaves for a balanced drink.
To make this daiquiri, add rum, simple syrup, lime juice, and ginger mint leaves to a cocktail shaker. Add ice, secure the top, and shake vigorously to chill and combine the ingredients.
For extra ginger flavor, you can use ginger-infused simple syrup or add a splash of ginger liqueur. The fresh mint adds a cooling sensation that complements the warm spice of ginger.
Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a mint leaf for a perfect presentation.
12. Cranberry Daiquiri
The Cranberry Daiquiri offers a tart and festive twist on the classic rum cocktail. This vibrant red drink is perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a fruity cocktail option.
To make a cranberry daiquiri, you’ll need white rum, fresh lime juice, and cranberry syrup. The syrup can be made by simmering cranberries with sugar, water, and a cinnamon stick until the berries burst and become translucent.
Combine the rum, lime juice, and cranberry syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake until well-chilled, then strain into a martini or coupe glass.
You can also make this in large batches for parties. The cranberry mixture keeps well in the refrigerator for several weeks.
13. Peach Daiquiri
The Peach Daiquiri is a fruity twist on the classic daiquiri that brings sweet summer flavors to your glass. This refreshing cocktail combines fresh peaches with rum and lime juice for a balanced taste.
You can make this drink in just 5 minutes with a blender. Simply mix juicy peaches, white rum, lime juice, and a touch of honey or sweetener.
For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh peaches when they’re in season. If fresh aren’t available, frozen peaches work well too, especially for a frozen version.
Serve your Peach Daiquiri in a chilled glass for a perfect summer refreshment that’s peachy, slightly sweet, and wonderfully smooth.
14. Blood Orange Daiquiri
The Blood Orange Daiquiri is a vibrant twist on the classic cocktail that adds a sweet-tart dimension with its ruby-red citrus flavor. This refreshing drink combines white rum with fresh blood orange juice for a stunning visual appeal.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need 2 oz of white rum, ¾ oz of blood orange juice, ½ oz of simple syrup, and ¼ oz of lime juice. Combine these ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake well.
Serve your Blood Orange Daiquiri in a jam jar or cocktail glass. Garnish with a blood orange wheel for an elegant touch. The bright, citrusy flavors make this an ideal choice for summer gatherings.
15. Blueberry Daiquiri
The Blueberry Daiquiri offers a beautiful purple-blue color and robust flavor that stands out among cocktails. This refreshing drink combines rum, lime juice, and sweet blueberries for a perfect balance.
To make this cocktail, add rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and a handful of blueberries to a blender. Some recipes also include fresh basil leaves for an herbal twist.
Pulse until smooth, then pour into a chilled glass. You can use fresh or frozen blueberries depending on what’s available.
For a variation, try using lemon juice instead of lime and muddle the blueberries before shaking with ice. Double strain into a Nick & Nora glass for an elegant presentation.
16. Lychee Daiquiri
The Lychee Daiquiri offers a tropical twist on the classic cocktail. This refreshing drink combines the exotic flavor of lychee with the traditional daiquiri ingredients.
To make this drink, you’ll need white rum, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and lychees (either fresh or canned). Peel and seed fresh lychees before using them in your cocktail.
For a blended version, combine ice, lychees, rum, lime juice, and simple syrup in a blender until smooth. Adjust sweetness with more ice if needed.
If you prefer a stronger lychee flavor, add a splash of lychee syrup to enhance the fruity notes.
17. Raspberry Lemon Daiquiri
The Raspberry Lemon Daiquiri combines tangy citrus with sweet berry flavors for a refreshing cocktail experience. This pink-hued drink offers a fruity twist on the classic daiquiri.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need white rum, fresh lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and simple syrup. The raspberry element gives the drink its distinctive color and sweet-tart flavor profile.
Combine two ounces of white rum with one ounce of fresh lemon juice in a shaker with ice. Add three-quarters of an ounce of raspberry syrup and a splash of simple syrup.
Shake vigorously until chilled, then strain into a coupe glass. For a frozen version, blend the ingredients with ice until smooth.
18. Caribbean Coffee Daiquiri
The Caribbean Coffee Daiquiri blends the tropical vibes of a classic daiquiri with rich coffee flavors. To make this refreshing cocktail, combine 2 ounces of dark rum, 1 ounce of coffee liqueur, 1 ounce of fresh lime juice, and ½ ounce of simple syrup.
Shake all ingredients vigorously with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a lime wheel or coffee beans.
This drink works best with a high-proof rum to balance the sweetness of the coffee liqueur. You’ll enjoy the perfect balance of citrus, sweetness, and coffee notes that create a unique tropical experience.
19. Pomegranate Daiquiri
The Pomegranate Daiquiri is a beautiful twist on the classic cocktail that adds a tart, fruity dimension. It features a vibrant red color that makes it visually striking in any glass.
To make this cocktail, you’ll need light white rum, fresh lime juice, and pomegranate juice. Some recipes also incorporate Maraschino liqueur for a hint of cherry flavor that complements the pomegranate perfectly.
For the best results, use freshly squeezed lime juice and high-quality rum. You can garnish your Pomegranate Daiquiri with a dehydrated lime wheel for an elegant finishing touch.
This refreshing cocktail balances sweet and tart flavors, making it perfect for summer gatherings or any special occasion.
20. Grapefruit Rosemary Daiquiri
The Grapefruit Rosemary Daiquiri offers a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail with its citrusy and herbaceous flavors. You’ll love how the tart grapefruit balances with the aromatic rosemary.
To make this daiquiri, combine 2 ounces white rum with 2 ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. Add 1 ounce simple syrup (or rosemary-infused honey syrup for extra flavor) and 3/4 ounce lime juice.
Shake all ingredients with ice until well-chilled, then strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary and a grapefruit wedge for an elegant presentation.
This cocktail is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want a sophisticated yet simple drink.
21. Kiwi Mint Daiquiri
This refreshing twist on a classic daiquiri adds kiwi and mint for a bright, tropical flavor. The fuzzy kiwi fruit is packed with vitamin C and creates a beautiful light green cocktail.
To make this drink, you’ll need 2 oz white rum, 1 oz fresh lime juice, 3/4 oz simple syrup, 1/2 peeled kiwi, and 4-5 mint leaves.
Muddle the kiwi and mint in a shaker. Add the rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and ice. Shake vigorously until chilled, then strain into a chilled coupe glass.
For a frozen version, blend all ingredients with a cup of crushed ice until smooth. Garnish with a mint leaf and kiwi slice.
History of the Daiquiri
The daiquiri has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, with roots in Cuba during a time of significant historical events. Its evolution from a simple mix to a sophisticated cocktail parallels its rise in popularity around the world.
Origins and Evolution
The daiquiri cocktail was born in 1898 in a small Cuban mining town called Daiquirí, near Santiago. Its creation coincided with the United States’ intervention in the Cuban War of Independence. Jennings Stockton Cox Jr., an American mining engineer, is credited with inventing the first formal daiquiri.
The basic combination of rum, lime, and sugar wasn’t new—Caribbean people had been mixing these ingredients since the 17th century. What Cox did was standardize and name the drink after its birthplace.
By the 1930s, the daiquiri found a home at El Floridita bar in Havana, where bartenders refined the recipe. The cocktail evolved from a simple shaken drink to include frozen versions and numerous variations with different fruits and flavoring agents.
Famous Figures Associated with the Daiquiri
Ernest Hemingway stands as the most notable daiquiri enthusiast. During his time in Cuba, he became a regular at El Floridita, where bartender Constantino Ribalaigua created the “Hemingway Daiquiri” (also called “Papa Doble”). This variation used less sugar and added grapefruit juice and maraschino liqueur to accommodate Hemingway’s preference for stronger, less sweet drinks.
President John F. Kennedy was another famous daiquiri fan. His wife Jackie reportedly enjoyed serving daiquiris at White House functions.
During Prohibition in the United States (1920-1933), many Americans traveled to Cuba just to enjoy rum cocktails like the daiquiri, boosting its international profile. This Cuban connection made the daiquiri a symbol of tropical escape and sophistication that continues today.
Ingredients Essentials
Creating a perfect daiquiri depends on using the right ingredients in proper balance. Quality matters more than quantity when mixing this classic cocktail.
Key Components of a Classic Daiquiri
A classic daiquiri requires just three essential ingredients: rum, fresh lime juice, and sugar. This simple trio creates a balanced flavor profile when mixed in the right proportions.
For lime juice, always use fresh-squeezed limes rather than bottled juice. The bright acidity and natural oils from fresh limes make a significant difference in the final taste.
Sugar can be used in different forms. Simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) is most common, but some recipes call for superfine sugar which dissolves easily. The standard ratio is:
- 2 ounces white rum
- ¾ ounce fresh lime juice
- ¾ ounce simple syrup or ½ ounce rich simple syrup
Ice is technically the fourth ingredient but equally important for proper dilution and temperature.
Choosing the Right Rum for Your Daiquiri
White rum is traditional for daiquiris, but you have several options to match your taste preferences.
Light rums produce clean, crisp daiquiris that highlight the lime flavor. Cuban-style rums like Havana Club offer authenticity, while Puerto Rican rums such as Bacardi provide reliable quality.
For a more complex daiquiri, try aged rum (añejo) which adds vanilla and caramel notes. Agricultural rums (rhum agricole) made from sugarcane juice rather than molasses create grassy, distinctive daiquiris. These work particularly well in the Hemingway variation.
When selecting rum, consider:
- Proof: Higher proof (above 80) provides more backbone
- Flavor profile: Fruity, grassy, or vanilla notes will affect your final drink
- Price point: A good mixing rum needn’t be expensive, but avoid the cheapest options
