How to Make a Rum Rum Rudolph Cocktail

Introducing the Rum Rum Rudolph, a holiday-inspired cocktail that is on the verge of becoming a classic. While it has gained popularity on social media, especially when paired with the iconic “Run Rudolph Run” holiday song, there is currently no established standard recipe—until now.

This recipe, featuring a delectable spiced cranberry syrup, has the potential to become a holiday staple. The inspiration for the spiced cranberry flavor comes from a Craft and Cocktails drink, making it a fresh and festive addition to the season’s cocktail repertoire.

Rum Rum Rudolph Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

Spiced Cranberry Syrup:

• 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 cup 100% unsweetened cranberry juice
• 8 whole cloves
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 2 crushed and torn green cardamom pods

(Note: This syrup recipe yields enough for 8 cocktails.)

Cocktail:

• 2 ounces spiced rum
• 1 ounce spiced cranberry syrup
• 1/2 ounce cranberry juice
• 1/2 ounce lemon juice
• 3 dashes citrus bitters
• 1/2 ounce optional egg white

Editor’s Tip: Use 100% unsweetened cranberry juice for a tart flavor. Any leftover cranberry juice can be used to make a Poinsettia cocktail.

Directions

Step 1: Make the Spiced Cranberry Syrup

1. Combine brown sugar, cranberry juice, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and crushed cardamom pods in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 5 minutes. Turn off heat, cover, and let steep for 15 minutes.
3. Remove the lid and strain out the spices.

Step 2: Shake the Cocktail

1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine rum, spiced cranberry syrup, cranberry juice, lemon juice, bitters, and a pinch of salt.
2. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
3. Strain the cocktail into one half of the shaker, add the optional egg white, discard ice, and shake again to foam the egg white for another 15 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass, garnish, and serve.

Tips for Making a Rum Rum Rudolph

How to Garnish a Rum Rum Rudolph

For a delightful presentation, garnish the Rum Rum Rudolph with a fresh cranberry adorned with two small sprigs of rosemary, resembling a miniature reindeer. Simply prick two holes in the cranberry with a toothpick, make a thin slice at the bottom, insert two rosemary sprigs, and secure the cranberry to the side of the glass using the slit.

Prepping the Syrup Before a Party

As this cocktail is perfect for holiday gatherings, you can prepare the syrup up to a week in advance and store it in a glass airtight container in the refrigerator. On the day of the event, mix all ingredients (excluding the egg white) in a large pitcher and chill. When ready to serve, measure, shake, and enjoy. Don’t forget to prepare your garnishes ahead of time for a seamless presentation.

For more make-ahead cocktails, consider options like Chilean Monkey Tail Punch and Mulled Wine.