This Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail combines cold brew coffee with vanilla-flavored rum and a rosemary simple syrup—it’s the perfect wintertime cocktail!

Coffee recipes make my heart sing. I don’t care if it’s a drink recipe, a breakfast recipe or a dessert recipe — I love them all, and I know you do too. This vanilla cold brew cocktail will be your new favorite this holiday season.
When Bom Bom first reached out to me, I was very intrigued by their product but also a little unsure. You see, rum is not my first choice of alcohol (it’s certainly not my last, either), but their products are made with DAIRY FREE MILK—yes really—and they come in a variety of flavors. For this recipe, I opted to use the Nilli Vanilli, which is made with rum, almondmilk and vanilla flavoring and I’m not even joking when I say you could easily just drink it by itself over ice. Bom Bom’s newest flavor, Fully Baked, is made with hemp seed milk and rum. Pretty cool, right?


True story: you can barely taste the alcohol in this cocktail, which is both delightful and a little scary if you know what I mean, but ultimately it makes this cold brew cocktail taste pretty darn close to your morning coffee, with a little added sweetness of course.
Note: You may need to adjust the amount of syrup you use. Most likely if you use cold brew, you’ll need more syrup and if you use regular brewed coffee, you’ll need less.
First, you’ll want to start by making the rosemary vanilla syrup, which I recommend doing ahead of time if possible since it needs to be at room temperature before using. Then, you’ll simply combine the syrup with cold brew/brewed coffee, Bom Bom and a splash of milk. It’s creamy, delicious and perfect for holiday parties and/or NEW YEAR’S EVE.

Want to try Bom Bom for yourself? Check out their store locator to see where you can purchase some for yourself.
Disclaimer: this post is sponsored by Bom Bom. As always, all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting brands that help support this site!
Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail

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Ingredients
for the syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 rosemary sprig
for the cocktail:
- 1 cup cold brew coffee
- 2 oz. Bom Bom Nilli Vanilli
- 2-4 tbsp rosemary syrup*
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- ice
Instructions
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Start by making the simple syrup: add sugar, water, vanilla, and rosemary to a saucepan and bring to a boil; then, reduce to a simmer and simmer for 15 minutes. Allow syrup to come to room temperature before using.
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For the cocktail: fill 2 glasses with ice then set aside. Next, combine cold brew, syrup and milk in a cocktail shaker; shake to combine, then pour into a glass. Last, pour Bom Bom overtop and stir with a spoon. Alternatively, you can add Bom Bom to the cocktail shaker and combine it that way.
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Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Did you make this?Leave a comment and star rating below!

Indulge in the Perfect Winter Warmer: The Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a comforting beverage to lift your spirits. But who says comfort can’t be a little bit spirited too? Introducing the Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail – a delightful concoction that perfectly blends the robust notes of cold brew coffee with the smooth sweetness of vanilla-infused rum and the intriguing aroma of homemade rosemary simple syrup. This isn’t just any drink; it’s a dairy-free, winter-perfect cocktail designed to make your holiday season, or any evening, sing.

Why This Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail Will Be Your New Favorite
For many, coffee is more than just a morning ritual; it’s a passion, a source of comfort, and a canvas for endless culinary creativity. Whether it’s a refreshing drink recipe, a hearty breakfast delight, or an decadent after-dinner dessert, coffee holds a special place in our hearts. This Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail takes that love to an exciting new level, transforming your beloved coffee into an elegant, boozy treat.
What makes this particular cocktail so irresistible? It’s the harmonious balance of flavors and its inclusive nature. We’ve combined the deep, rich essence of cold brew coffee, known for its smooth, low-acid profile, with a uniquely crafted vanilla rum. The secret weapon, however, is the rosemary simple syrup, which introduces an unexpected herbaceous freshness, cutting through the sweetness and adding a sophisticated twist. Plus, it’s entirely dairy-free, making it a wonderful option for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a lighter, plant-based indulgence.
The Allure of Cold Brew in Cocktails
Cold brew coffee stands apart from traditionally brewed coffee, offering a naturally sweeter, less bitter taste profile due to its extended brewing process at lower temperatures. This makes it an ideal base for cocktails, as its smoothness doesn’t overpower other ingredients but rather complements them beautifully. When paired with vanilla and rum, the cold brew adds a depth that transforms the drink from a simple mixed beverage into a complex, satisfying experience. It’s like your favorite morning pick-me-up decided to put on its party attire for the evening.
Spotlight on Bom Bom Nilli Vanilli: A Dairy-Free Rum Revolution
When I first encountered Bom Bom’s products, I was intrigued. While rum isn’t always my go-to spirit, the concept of a dairy-free cream liqueur immediately piqued my interest. Bom Bom is truly revolutionizing the liquor market with its innovative approach to delicious, inclusive spirits. Their commitment to using dairy-free milk—yes, really!—sets them apart, offering a rich, creamy texture without any dairy.
For this exceptional cocktail, I chose their Bom Bom Nilli Vanilli. This exquisite blend combines premium rum with smooth almond milk and a generous burst of vanilla flavoring. Honestly, it’s so incredibly delicious that you could simply pour it over ice and enjoy it as a standalone treat. The Nilli Vanilli provides the perfect sweet, creamy foundation for our cold brew cocktail, eliminating the need for additional dairy creamers. It’s a game-changer for anyone seeking a luscious, dairy-free alternative.
Beyond Nilli Vanilli, Bom Bom continues to innovate, as evidenced by their “Fully Baked” flavor, which ingeniously incorporates hemp seed milk and rum. This forward-thinking approach ensures there’s a unique and delightful option for every palate, making them a brand worth exploring for creative cocktail enthusiasts and those with dietary preferences alike.


Crafting Your Signature Rosemary Vanilla Simple Syrup
One of the true stars of this cocktail is the homemade rosemary vanilla simple syrup. It’s an easy-to-make component that adds a fresh, aromatic depth that store-bought syrups simply can’t replicate. The subtle piney notes of rosemary beautifully complement the sweetness of vanilla and the bitterness of coffee, creating a wonderfully complex flavor profile.
Making this syrup ahead of time is highly recommended. Not only does it allow the flavors to meld beautifully, but it also ensures the syrup cools down to room temperature before being added to your cold brew, preventing any unwanted dilution or temperature changes in your cocktail. Simply combine sugar, water, a hint of vanilla extract, and a fresh rosemary sprig in a saucepan. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the rosemary to infuse its essence into the sweet liquid. Once cooled, strain out the rosemary sprig, and your aromatic syrup is ready to elevate your drinks.
A Note on Sweetness and Coffee Type
This cocktail offers a delightful balance of flavors, but personal preference for sweetness can vary. If you’re using strong cold brew, which often has a naturally sweeter and less acidic profile, you might find you need a bit more syrup to achieve your desired sweetness. Conversely, if you opt for regular brewed coffee, which can be more acidic and bitter, you might prefer a little less syrup. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste, ensuring your cocktail is perfectly tailored to your palate.
Assembling Your Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail
Once your rosemary vanilla syrup has cooled, the rest of the cocktail comes together effortlessly. This recipe is designed for ease and enjoyment, perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in. The blending of cold brew, the unique vanilla rum, and a splash of dairy-free milk creates a creamy, indulgent texture that feels both luxurious and comforting.
The beauty of this cocktail lies in its delightful flavor that masks the alcohol so well, it tastes almost like a decadent morning coffee. This can be both a blessing and a slight “beware” if you know what I mean! The added sweetness, combined with the creamy texture, makes it incredibly palatable and dangerously delicious.

Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail Recipe
By Erin Alvarez
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 20 mins

This vanilla cold brew cocktail combines cold brew coffee with vanilla-flavored rum and a rosemary simple syrup for a sweet and creamy cocktail. Bonus: it’s dairy free!
Ingredients
For the Rosemary Vanilla Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 fresh rosemary sprig
For the Cocktail:
- 1 cup cold brew coffee
- 2 oz. Bom Bom Nilli Vanilli
- 2-4 tbsp rosemary syrup* (from above recipe)
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or other dairy-free milk of choice)
- Ice
Instructions
- Prepare the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, vanilla extract, and the rosemary sprig. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it gently cook for 15 minutes, allowing the rosemary to infuse its flavor. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely to room temperature before using. Strain out the rosemary sprig.
- Assemble the Cocktail: Fill two serving glasses generously with ice and set them aside. In a cocktail shaker, combine the cold brew coffee, 2 to 4 tablespoons of the prepared rosemary vanilla syrup (adjust to your preferred sweetness), and almond milk. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well combined and chilled.
- Serve: Pour the shaken coffee mixture evenly into the two ice-filled glasses. Gently pour 1 ounce of Bom Bom Nilli Vanilli into each glass over the coffee mixture. Stir gently with a spoon to fully incorporate.
- Garnish & Enjoy: For an extra touch of elegance and aroma, garnish each cocktail with a fresh rosemary sprig. Serve immediately and savor this exquisite winter treat!
Notes
- *Start with 2 tablespoons of rosemary syrup and add more to taste if you desire a sweeter drink.
- For a stronger coffee flavor, use a concentrated cold brew or a very strong brewed coffee.
- To make ahead: The rosemary vanilla syrup can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 448kcal | Carbohydrates: 113g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 56mg | Potassium: 70mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 109g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 0.1mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.
Tips for the Ultimate Cold Brew Cocktail Experience
- Quality Cold Brew: The foundation of this drink is the cold brew. Use a high-quality, smooth cold brew coffee for the best results. You can buy it pre-made or easily make your own at home.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure both your cold brew and rosemary syrup are well chilled. This prevents the ice from melting too quickly and diluting your cocktail.
- Customize Sweetness: Everyone has a different preference for sweetness. Start with the suggested 2 tablespoons of syrup and add more in small increments until it’s just right for your taste buds.
- Garnish for Impact: A fresh sprig of rosemary isn’t just for looks; it adds an aromatic element that enhances the overall drinking experience. You can also add a vanilla bean pod or a sprinkle of nutmeg.
- Batch for a Crowd: For holiday parties or gatherings, you can easily scale up the recipe. Prepare the syrup and cold brew mixture in advance and store it in a pitcher. Add Bom Bom Nilli Vanilli and ice just before serving.
Variations & Enhancements
While this Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail is fantastic as is, feel free to get creative with these variations:
- Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cardamom to your simple syrup while simmering for a warmer, spicier note.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Stir in a teaspoon of dairy-free chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of cocoa powder to the shaker for a mocha-inspired treat.
- Different Dairy-Free Milks: While almond milk is recommended, feel free to experiment with oat milk for a creamier texture, or cashew milk for a richer flavor.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Omit the Bom Bom Nilli Vanilli and increase the vanilla extract in the syrup, then add an extra splash of vanilla almond milk or dairy-free creamer for a delicious mocktail.
- Espresso Martini Style: If you prefer a stronger coffee kick, use chilled espresso shots instead of cold brew.
Where to Find Bom Bom Dairy-Free Rums
Eager to try the unique flavor of Bom Bom for yourself? Their products are becoming increasingly available, and you can easily locate a retailer near you. Visit their official website and utilize their store locator tool to find out where you can purchase Bom Bom Nilli Vanilli or their other exciting dairy-free rum flavors. It’s an excellent way to support an innovative brand and ensure you have the key ingredient for this fantastic cocktail.
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Bom Bom. As always, all opinions expressed are my own and reflect my genuine experience with the product. Thank you for supporting the brands that make this site possible!
Did you craft this delightful Rosemary Vanilla Cold Brew Cocktail? We’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment and a star rating below to share your thoughts and tips with our community. Your feedback helps us create more amazing recipes!
