Paul Kushner
The Watermelon Raspberry Cooler is light, fruity, and super refreshing. Fresh watermelon and raspberries bring natural sweetness and color, while lime juice and white rum add brightness and balance. A splash of sparkling water keeps it crisp, making this drink a great choice for hot days or laid-back gatherings.
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Tasting Notes
This Watermelon Raspberry Cooler is fruity, light, and super refreshing. The watermelon gives it a clean, slightly sweet base while raspberries bring a little tang. Lime juice adds brightness, and simple syrup softens the edges without making it too sweet. White rum adds a subtle kick without overpowering the fruit. Topped with sparkling water, it finishes crisp and bubbly. The balance of sweet, tart, and fresh makes it easy to sip on a hot day. Each sip gives a mix of soft melon, berry, and lime, with a smooth finish and a cool pop of fizz.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a shaker, muddler, jigger, fine mesh strainer, and a cocktail spoon. A small blender or hand blender also works well for breaking down the fruit. A citrus squeezer makes juicing quick. Go with a highball or stemless wine glass to show off the fresh ingredients and sparkling top. Use a wide straw if you’re keeping the muddled fruit in. Chill your glass in advance, and make sure to have extra ice on hand to keep it cool from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 2.5 oz seedless watermelon chunks
- 0.75 oz raspberries
- 1 oz lime juice
- 0.75 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz white rum
- Sparkling water, to top
- Garnish: watermelon chunks, raspberries, lime wedge
Instructions
- In a shaker or mixing glass, muddle the watermelon and raspberries until juicy.
- Add lime juice, simple syrup, and white rum.
- Fill with ice and shake to chill and mix.
- Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
- Garnish with watermelon, raspberries, and a lime wedge.
Pro Tips
- Use very ripe fruit for stronger flavor.
- Chill all ingredients before mixing to keep it extra cold.
- Strain twice for a smoother drink with less pulp.
- Don’t skip the sparkling water it keeps the drink light and balanced.
- Use a dry sparkling water if your fruit is already sweet.
- Try mint or basil as an optional garnish for a fresh twist.
- Add crushed ice for a slushier texture on extra hot days.
When to Serve
This Watermelon Raspberry Cooler is a great choice for hot days, outdoor parties, or anytime you want something fruity and refreshing without being heavy. It fits perfectly at picnics, cookouts, or poolside gatherings. It’s also a solid mocktail base just skip the rum. The mix of watermelon and raspberry makes it feel playful and seasonal. Serve it when you want a drink that’s fun, not fussy. It pairs well with fresh snacks, grilled foods, or anything salty and light.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- White Rum: Bacardi Superior, Don Q Cristal, or Flor de Caña Extra Dry
- Sparkling Water: Topo Chico, San Pellegrino, or Polar
- Simple Syrup: Homemade 1:1 or brands like Liber & Co.
- Lime Juice: Always fresh-squeezed
- Fruit: Use seedless watermelon and ripe raspberries for best texture and flavor
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- ½ cup seedless watermelon chunks
- ¼ cup raspberries
- 1 oz lime juice
- 0.75 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz white rum
- Sparkling water to top
- Garnish: watermelon chunks raspberries, lime wedge
Instructions
- In a shaker or mixing glass, muddle the watermelon and raspberries until juicy.
- Add lime juice, simple syrup, and white rum.
- Fill with ice and shake to chill and mix.
- Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
- Garnish with watermelon, raspberries, and a lime wedge.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use a blender for a smoother texture, or double strain to remove seeds and pulp.
- Chill all ingredients before mixing to keep the drink crisp without too much ice.
- For a stronger drink, skip the sparkling water or use less.
- Swap white rum for vodka if you want a lighter flavor.
