Powder Keg: Spectacular Dark Rum and Campari Cocktail
Aug 31, 2025
The Powder Keg is a truly unforgettable flaming rum cocktail. If you're looking for a bold and impressive dark rum and Campari cocktail, this recipe is for you. We've combined the rich flavors of dark spiced rum and the bitter notes of Campari for a unique tiki libation that will entertain your friends for hours.
This cocktail is a must-make! It balances overproof rum, Fuego Bitters, and Campari for a truly complex, spicy-sweet profile.
What is the Powder Keg Cocktail?
The Powder Keg is a tiki-style cocktail that balances bold flavors and an eye-catching presentation. It gets its bitterness from Campari, its depth from dark rum, and a fiery kick from overproof rum. The unique combination of El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters and Black Pepper Syrup creates a complex, spicy-sweet profile that stands out from a typical tiki drink. It is a perfect choice for your next party.
How to Make the Flaming Rum Cocktail
This recipe is simple to follow and delivers a high-quality, memorable cocktail every time.
Ingredients for Your Dark Rum and Campari Cocktail
- 5 oz Dark Spiced Rum
- .5 oz Overproof Rum
- .5 oz Ginger Liqueur (she used Barrows Intense)
- .5 oz Campari
- 2 oz Pomegranate Juice
- .5 oz Black Pepper Syrup (recipe below)
- .75 oz Lime Juice
- .25 oz El Guapo™ Orgeat
- 10 dashes El Guapo™ Polynesian Kiss Bitters
- 4 dashes El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters
- Star fruit slices, Key Limes + matches/lighter (optional), for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except the overproof rum in a cocktail shaker with crushed or nugget ice.
- Shake to chill.
- Pour the mixture straight into a glass.
- Garnish with star fruit slices.
- Optional To light on fire, hollow out half of a key lime. Fill with overproof rum and very carefully light on fire. Otherwise, just float the overproof rum right on top.
Black Pepper Syrup
- 1 cup White Sugar
- 1 cup Water
- 2 tablespoons whole Black Peppercorns, freshly crushed in a pestle
- Bring water to a boil and lower heat to medium.
- Pour in sugar and stir to dissolve.
- Add peppercorns, stirring gently to combine, and allow to simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat to cool, and strain through a fine mesh sieve into a mason jar. The syrup will keep refrigerated for up to two weeks.
Layering Spice and Tropical Notes for the Dark Rum Cocktail
The complexity of this bold dark rum and Campari cocktail is achieved through the intentional layering of two types of bitters: El Guapo™ Fuego Bitters and Polynesian Kiss Bitters. The Fuego Bitters inject a concentrated, fiery spice, while the Polynesian Kiss adds a balancing tropical and floral aroma. This blend complements the savory Black Pepper Syrup and rich dark rum base, making the Powder Keg a perfectly balanced, sophisticated flaming rum cocktail that earns its dramatic flair.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of rum should I use for this cocktail?
A dark spiced rum is best for this recipe as it adds a layer of warm spices that complement the other ingredients. The overproof rum is used primarily for the flaming garnish and should be treated with care.
Can I substitute the Campari?
Campari provides the iconic bitter taste. While you can use a similar bitter aperitif like Aperol, the flavor will be less intense.
What is the purpose of the bitters?
The El Guapo™ Polynesian Kiss Bitters add a tropical and floral element, while the Fuego Bitters add a spicy, fiery kick that enhances the overall flavor of the cocktail. They are essential for a well-rounded drink.
