Dark Rum Espresso Tonic
A lively combination of robust espresso and rich dark rum layered over tonic water for a refreshing and energizing cocktail. This recipe, ready in about 5 minutes, brings together dark rum, fresh espresso, tonic water for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 160 calories and feeds 1, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz dark rum
- 1 oz fresh espresso
- 3 oz tonic water
- 1/4 oz simple syrup
- enough to fill glass ice cubes
- 1 narrow strip orange twist
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Equipment for this recipe
Tools this recipe's steps call for, with a link to each on Amazon.
Instructions
- Step 1: Fill a highball glass with ice cubes to the brim. Pour 1.5 oz dark rum and 1/4 oz simple syrup over the ice.
- Step 2: Slowly add 3 oz tonic water to preserve carbonation.
- Step 3: Brew 1 oz fresh espresso and allow it to cool slightly, then gently pour it over the back of a spoon onto the tonic to create a layered effect.
- Step 4: Express an orange twist over the glass to release oils, then drop it in as garnish.
- Step 5: Serve with a straw for gentle stirring before drinking.
