New Year’s Eve rum berry cocktail made with spiced rum, pomegranate juice, Cointreau, ginger beer, and frozen berries. This easy holiday cocktail is perfect for parties, festive gatherings, and winter celebrations. Refreshing, fruity, and ideal for serving a crowd. Garnished with fresh raspberries and thyme for a seasonal finish. Great for Christmas drinks, New Year’s toasts, or special occasion cocktails.

This vibrant rum berry cocktail is a festive and refreshing drink, perfect for ringing in the New Year. With spiced rum, pomegranate juice, Cointreau, ginger beer, and berries, it’s fizzy, fruity, and easy to make in a jug for serving a crowd.

Ingredients

90 ml (⅓ cup + 1 tbsp) spiced rum (e.g. Kraken)
510 ml (2 cups + 2 tbsp) 100% pomegranate juice (not from concentrate)
30 ml (2 tbsp) Cointreau
240 ml (1 cup) spiced ginger beer
250 g (approx. 2 cups minus 3 tbsp) frozen mixed berries
Ice (optional)
90 g (¾ cup) fresh raspberries
A few sprigs of fresh thyme

Instructions

Mix the Cocktail
In a large jug or pitcher, combine the spiced rum, pomegranate juice, Cointreau, and ginger beer. Stir gently to mix.
Prepare the Glasses
Fill each glass halfway with frozen mixed berries. Add a few ice cubes if desired.
Serve
Pour the cocktail mixture into each glass. Top with fresh raspberries and a sprig of thyme for garnish. Serve immediately.

Tips

Use 100% pomegranate juice for the best flavor and color.
Chill your ingredients before mixing to keep the drink cold without needing much ice.
Frozen berries act as both a garnish and a natural cooler.
Use large wine glasses or short tumblers for a festive presentation.

Variations and Substitutions

Alcohol-free version: Omit the rum and Cointreau. Replace with extra ginger beer and a splash of orange juice.
Berries: Use your favorite frozen berries such as blueberries, blackberries, or cherries.
Spirit swaps: Try white rum or dark rum for a different twist.
Herbs: Swap thyme with mint or rosemary for a different aroma.

FAQs

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, mix the rum, juice, and Cointreau ahead of time and store in the fridge. Add ginger beer and garnish just before serving.

Can I make this for a crowd?
Absolutely. Double or triple the quantities and serve in a punch bowl with a ladle.

Is this drink very sweet?
It’s lightly sweet with a tart kick from the pomegranate. Adjust sweetness by adding more or less ginger beer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve at New Year’s Eve parties, brunches, or holiday gatherings.
Pair with cheese boards, appetizers, or sweet nibbles like chocolate truffles.
Add festive cocktail stirrers or sparkling sugar rims for extra flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rum berry cocktail is bold, colorful, and bursting with festive flavors. It’s quick to prepare, easy to scale up, and has just the right balance of sweet, tart, and spiced notes. Ideal for celebrations or casual evenings, it’s a refreshing drink that looks as good as it tastes.