Follow Me On Social Media!
Boozy Rum-Soaked Strawberries: The Perfect Adult Dessert
Turn ordinary strawberries into an unforgettable adult dessert with Boozy Rum-Soaked Strawberries. Sweet, juicy strawberries absorb the warm flavors of dark rum and a touch of sugar, creating a cocktail-inspired treat that’s perfect for brunch, dessert tables, or special occasions.

Whether you’re serving them over ice cream, with whipped cream, or straight from a bowl with a spoon, these rum-soaked berries are both elegant and easy to make. The vibrant red berries, combined with rich golden rum syrup, create a visually stunning and indulgent snack

.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- ½ cup (120ml) dark rum
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
- Prep the Strawberries:
Rinse and hull the strawberries. Cut into halves (or quarters for larger berries) and place them in a medium mixing bowl. - Combine Ingredients:
In a small bowl, whisk together dark rum, sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract (if using) until sugar begins to dissolve. - Marinate the Strawberries:
Pour the rum mixture over the strawberries and gently toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2–4 hours. - Serve:
Spoon the strawberries into serving bowls, drizzle with some of the syrup, and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve chilled as a standalone treat or over desserts like ice cream, cheesecake, or pound cake. - Storage Tips:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor intensifies over time as the berries soak longer.

Boozy Rum-Soaked Strawberries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse and hull the strawberries. Cut into halves and place in a medium bowl.
- Whisk together dark rum, sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until sugar dissolves.
- Pour the rum mixture over strawberries and toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate 1–4 hours.
- Serve chilled in bowls, drizzled with syrup and garnished with mint if desired.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Rum-Soaked Strawberries
- Sweetness Balance: Adjust sugar based on the natural sweetness of your strawberries. Riper berries need less sugar.
- Rum Choice: Dark or spiced rum adds depth, but light rum works for a milder flavor.
- Layering Flavors: Add a splash of orange liqueur or a dash of cinnamon for a creative twist.
- Presentation: Serve in a glass bowl or coupe glass for a cocktail-style dessert.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Ice Cream: Perfect with vanilla, coconut, or chocolate ice cream.
- With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of lightly sweetened cream for a classic pairing.
- Dessert Topping: Great on cheesecake, panna cotta, or angel food cake.
- Cocktail Garnish: Use as a boozy garnish for rum cocktails or champagne.
Fun Facts & Cultural Context
Rum-soaked fruits have been a classic European and Caribbean tradition for centuries. Caribbean rum cakes often feature soaked fruits, and these berries are a simplified, elegant twist perfect for modern dessert tables. They’re visually striking, quick to prepare, and deliver a boozy punch without overpowering the natural sweetness of strawberries.
Variations
- Mixed Berry Version: Add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to the mix.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Top with dark chocolate ganache for a decadent adult dessert.
- Spiced Rum: Use spiced rum with cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg undertones for a warm flavor.
- Prosecco Twist: Serve soaked berries with a splash of sparkling wine for a festive brunch option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy adult dessert in under 10 minutes prep
- Customizable with different spirits and spices
- Beautiful, vibrant presentation for entertaining
- Can be made ahead for stress-free hosting
With just a few ingredients, you can turn fresh strawberries into a sophisticated, boozy treat that’s perfect for summer brunches, holiday gatherings, or an elegant dessert centerpiece.



