Classic Daiquiri

Ingredients

• 60 ml (2 oz)good-quality white rum
• 30 ml (1 oz)freshly squeezed lime juice
• 15 ml (½ oz)simple syrup
• 1lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions

1. 1

   Add the ingredients

   Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add the white rum, lime juice and simple syrup.

2. 2

   Shake and serve

   Shake for at least 30 seconds, until thoroughly chilled. Strain into a coupe glass, garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.

What is a classic daiquiri?

The daiquiri is a simple rum cocktail associated with Cuba, made by combining rum, lime juice and sugar. This version follows that clean, uncluttered formula and is shaken with ice for a cold, balanced drink.

Freshly squeezed lime gives it a bright edge, while the syrup rounds out the citrus without obscuring the rum.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 181 calories, 1g protein, 16g carbs, 0g fat.

The rum provides most of the drink’s energy, while simple syrup contributes carbohydrates and lime juice adds a smaller amount. Pair it with a savoury snack or food with some protein to make a more substantial occasion of it.

Why these ingredients work

White rum: Choose a good-quality rum with a clean flavour, since it is the cocktail’s main spirit.

Fresh lime: Squeeze the juice shortly before mixing for a lively citrus taste.

Simple syrup: Its liquid form blends readily into the cold drink and makes it easy to balance the tartness.

Getting the balance right

Measure the rum, lime juice and syrup rather than pouring by eye; small changes can shift the drink from sharp to overly sweet. If you prefer a tarter cocktail, start with the listed syrup amount and adjust only the next time you make it.

Shaking and chilling

Use plenty of ice in the shaker and shake for at least 30 seconds, as directed. The drink should be very cold before it is strained; shaking also combines the citrus and syrup evenly.

Straining and serving

Strain into a coupe glass to leave the shaker ice behind, then add a lime wheel for a simple garnish. Serve straight away while the cocktail is cold and freshly shaken.

What to serve alongside

The lime’s acidity pairs well with savoury snacks such as salted nuts, olives or crisp tortilla chips. Keep accompanying food simple so its flavours do not overwhelm the drink.

Recipe notes & tips

• Use freshly squeezed lime juice rather than bottled juice.
• Measure each ingredient to keep the sweet-and-sour balance consistent.
• Chill the coupe glass beforehand if you want the drink to stay cold longer.
• Shake for at least 30 seconds, as the recipe directs.
• Garnish with a fresh lime wheel just before serving.

Variations

• Tarter finish: Reduce the simple syrup slightly for a sharper drink.
• Sweeter finish: Add a little more simple syrup to soften the lime’s bite.
• Different rum: Try another white rum, keeping the measured quantity the same.
• Citrus twist: Add a small strip of lime zest as well as the wheel.
• Frozen style: Blend the ingredients with ice for a slushy variation.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using bottled lime juice: It can taste less fresh; squeeze a lime just before mixing.
• Guessing the measures: The cocktail can become unbalanced; use a jigger or measuring tool.
• Under-shaking: The drink may not be cold enough; shake for at least 30 seconds.
• Pouring in the shaker ice: Strain the cocktail into the glass, leaving the ice behind.
• Making it ahead: The drink loses its freshly shaken chill; mix it just before serving.

How to store

A daiquiri is best made and served immediately, so it is not suited to storing after it has been shaken. Keep the rum and simple syrup sealed, and refrigerate fresh lime juice briefly if needed.

Frequently asked questions