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Picture yourself on a sun-kissed beach with a gentle breeze ruffling your hair. This Caribbean Coffee and Rum Cocktail recipe blends rich coffee with tropical spirits to deliver a drink that feels like a relaxing vacation on a sunny Caribbean island!

Looking for more hot coffee drinks? Make sure to try my recipes for Irish Coffee, Mexican Coffee Cocktail, and Cinnamon Latte Cocktail too!

Two glass mugs filled with a coffee cocktail topped with whipped cream and a chocolate covered coffee bean.

With origins rooted in the vibrant culture of the Caribbean islands, this Jamaican rum coffee drink features dark rum, coffee liqueur, and spices, transforming your average cup of joe into an exotic experience.

It’s a rich and warming cocktail often enjoyed as a dessert or after-dinner drink.

Ingredients

Dark Rum: This is the backbone of your cocktail, adding depth and a hint of caramel.
Coffee: The heart of the drink, bringing a strong, roasted flavor that pairs perfectly with the other elements.
Tia Maria Coffee Liqueur: A coffee liqueur originally from Jamaica, made with Jamaican coffee beans, rum, vanilla, and sugar. It has a rich, dark color and a smooth, slightly sweet flavor profile with a pronounced coffee taste. The rum base adds warmth and depth to the liqueur, while the hint of vanilla provides a touch of sweetness and complexity.
Whipped Cream: The perfect finishing touch topped with freshly grated nutmeg or a chocolate covered coffee bean.
Irish Coffee Glasses

Check out the printable recipe card below for the complete recipe and detailed instructions.

Two glass mugs filled with a coffee cocktail topped with whipped cream and a chocolate covered coffee bean surrounded by green and red wool balls.

How to Make a Hot Caribbean Coffee and Rum Cocktail

Brew a strong cup of hot black coffee.
In an Irish coffee glass, combine the hot coffee with dark rum and coffee liqueur. Stir gently.
Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
Sprinkle grated nutmeg over the cream for a finishing touch.

Two glass mugs filled with a coffee cocktail topped with whipped cream and a chocolate covered coffee bean with tropical leaves in the background.

This delicious cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s a flavor journey that transports you to sunny, beachy shores. They’re perfect for laid-back Sundays or fun-filled gatherings, adding a taste of the tropics to every occasion.

Expert Tips

Dark rum is recommended because it has a richer, more robust flavor that complements the coffee and liqueur. However, you can use spiced rum or even a lighter rum if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will be different.
A medium to dark roast coffee works best for this recipe. The bold flavor of a dark roast pairs nicely with the rum and coffee liqueur, creating a well-balanced taste. You can use freshly brewed drip coffee, French press, or even espresso if you prefer a stronger kick.
You can create a non-alcoholic version by replacing the rum with a splash of rum extract and using a coffee-flavored syrup (like a non-alcoholic coffee liqueur syrup) instead of the liqueur. This way, you can enjoy the flavor without the alcohol.
Tia Maria or Kahlúa are the traditional choices, but you can experiment with other coffee liqueurs like Sheridan’s or even try a different flavor like amaretto or hazelnut liqueur to add a unique twist.
To make homemade whipped cream, beat cold heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will give your Caribbean-style coffee an extra touch of freshness and flavor. For a vegan option, substitute coconut whipped cream.
You can make a Caribbean iced coffee by using cold brew coffee, then serving it over ice with the rum and liqueur. Top with whipped cream just before serving for a refreshing twist that is perfect for a hot summer day.

Food Pairing Suggestions

When sipping on Caribbean coffee cocktails, consider these delicious pairings:

Dark Chocolate: The pairing of dark chocolate with rum-based coffee cocktails is amazing. The bitterness complements the sweet, caramel notes in the cocktail.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy delights are a nod to the tropical origins of Caribbean drinks. Their sweetness pairs with the rich coffee flavors perfectly.
Spicy Jerk Chicken Skewers: A touch of spice contrasts beautifully against the smooth, creamy cocktail and excite the taste buds.
Banana Bread: The sweet, moist bread complements the cocktail’s coffee and rum notes perfectly. It’s a comforting choice for a cozy setting.
Cheese Platter: Opt for mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda. They provide a soft, creamy background to balance the cocktail’s robust flavors.

More Caribbean Rum Recipes

Rum Runner
Caribbean Rum Punch
Bahama Mama Cocktail
Tropical Painkiller
Tortuga Rum Cake – a true rum lover favorite!

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Enjoy!!