Sunshine and bold cocktails tend to go hand in hand, and the Strawberry Rum Rita delivers exactly that vibe. The first time I made this drink, it was for a backyard get together where everyone expected margaritas. Instead, I brought out this rum based twist, and it immediately got attention. The chili lime rim, the fresh strawberry garnish, and the warm spice from Captain Morgan made it stand out in the best way.
Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum adds warmth and depth that you simply do not get with tequila. I love this cocktail because it feels familiar but slightly unexpected. It keeps the structure of a margarita style drink while giving it a smooth, spiced rum personality. This Strawberry Rum Rita works for summer parties, Cinco de Mayo gatherings, beach days, or casual evenings when you want cocktails that feel fun and bold.
Why You Will Love This
The Strawberry Rum Rita takes a classic concept and gives it a flavorful rum forward spin.
- Made with Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
- Sweet and citrusy with a hint of warm spice
- Chili lime rim adds contrast and depth
- Simple ingredients with big flavor
- Easy to shake and serve
- Great for entertaining
Once you serve this at a gathering, guests often ask what gives it that extra kick. The answer is simple. Captain Morgan.
Ingredients
This cocktail uses a short list of ingredients, but each one plays a key role in balance and flavor.
- 1.5 oz Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
- 0.75 oz Lime Juice
- 0.75 oz Agave Syrup
- 1 Whole Strawberry for garnish
- Chili Lime Seasoning for rim
Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum provides warm vanilla and spice notes that complement the strawberry and lime. Freshly squeezed lime juice keeps the drink bright and prevents it from becoming too sweet. Agave syrup smooths out the acidity while maintaining a clean finish. The chili lime seasoning rim adds a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Fresh lime juice is strongly recommended for the best result.
Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions
For this cocktail, Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum is the recommended and featured spirit.
- Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum for its smooth spice and balanced sweetness
Using a different rum will change the flavor profile. This recipe is designed specifically around the warm spice notes of Captain Morgan.

Equipment and Glassware
This drink is simple to prepare with basic bar tools.
- Cocktail Shaker
- Jigger
- Rocks Glass
- Strainer
- Small plate for chili lime rim
A rocks glass works best, especially when served over fresh ice cubes. Chilling the glass beforehand helps keep the drink cold longer.
How to Make It
This cocktail is quick to assemble and perfect for serving fresh.
- Add the ingredients and ice into a shaker, and shake vigorously.
- Strain into a chili lime seasoning rimmed rocks Glass over fresh ice cubes.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry and or Lemon Slice.
Serve immediately while the drink is cold and the rim seasoning is fresh.
Pro Tips
Small details help this cocktail shine.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice
- Chill your rocks glass before serving
- Shake hard for at least 15 seconds
- Rim the glass evenly with chili lime seasoning
- Adjust agave syrup slightly for sweetness preference
- Use firm, ripe strawberries for garnish
- Serve right away for best texture
Once you dial in the balance you prefer, this becomes an easy go to cocktail.
Variations
You can personalize this Strawberry Rum Rita while keeping Captain Morgan at the center.
- Muddle fresh strawberries in the shaker for extra fruit flavor
- Add a splash of orange juice for a softer citrus note
- Serve frozen by blending with ice
- Add a dash of bitters for depth
- Make it alcohol free using lime juice, agave, and soda
Each variation keeps the core structure while shifting the flavor slightly.
When to Serve and Pairings
This cocktail fits perfectly into warm weather occasions and casual celebrations.
Serve it at summer parties, backyard barbecues, beach gatherings, Cinco de Mayo events, or relaxed dinner nights. It also works well as a signature drink for themed parties.
- Grilled shrimp
- Tacos or fajitas
- Fresh fruit platters
- Light appetizers
Spicy or citrus based foods pair especially well with the chili lime rim.
Storage and Serving Notes
This cocktail should be made fresh. Citrus based drinks lose brightness if prepared too far in advance.
If serving multiple guests, pre measure Captain Morgan, lime juice, and agave into a container. Shake individual servings with ice just before pouring for best results.
FAQs
Is this cocktail very sweet?
It has balanced sweetness from agave and rum, but lime keeps it bright.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Freshly squeezed lime juice gives the best flavor.
Is it very spicy?
The chili lime rim adds mild heat. You can adjust the amount used.
Can I make it frozen?
Yes. Blend all ingredients with ice for a frozen version.
What makes it different from a margarita?
Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum replaces tequila, adding warm spice notes.
More Cocktails to Try
If you enjoyed the Strawberry Rum Rita, here are a few other cocktails worth exploring.

Equipment
- Small plate for chili lime rim
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum
- 0.75 oz Lime Juice
- 0.75 oz Agave Syrup
- 1 Whole Strawberry for garnish
- Chili Lime Seasoning for rim
Instructions
- Add the ingredients and ice into a shaker, and shake vigorously.
- Strain into a chili lime seasoning rimmed rocks Glass over fresh ice cubes.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry and/or Lemon Slice.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice
- Chill your rocks glass before serving
- Shake hard for at least 15 seconds

