Authentic Cuban Libre Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces of light rum
  • 4 ounces of cola
  • Juice of half a lime
  • 1 lime wedge for garnish
  • Ice cubes

Steps and instructions

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour 2 ounces of light rum over the ice.
  3. Squeeze the juice of half a lime into the glass.
  4. Top with 4 ounces of cola.
  5. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
  6. Garnish with a lime wedge.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use dark rum instead of light rum for a richer flavor.
  • Replace the cola with a cola-flavored soda alternative for a different twist.
  • Add a splash of grenadine syrup to make a Cherry Cuba Libre.
  • Experiment with different citrus juices like lemon or orange instead of lime.
  • Add a dash of bitters for a more complex flavor profile.
  • Try using flavored rum such as coconut or spiced rum to add a unique taste.
  • Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing twist.
  • Add a few drops of vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness.

Recipe overview

Welcome to the recipe page for Cuba Libre, a classic and refreshing cocktail that seamlessly blends the lightness of rum with the fizziness of cola and a tangy lime twist. This delightful beverage, known for its perfect balance of flavors, hails from the beautiful island of Cuba and has been enjoyed worldwide for decades. Preparation is simple and quick, making this cocktail a favorite choice for parties and gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. With its unique combination of rum, lime, and cola, the Cuba Libre is not just a drink, but an experience of indulging in the taste of tropical paradise. The following recipe provides an easy-to-follow guide on creating a perfect Cuba Libre, from the ingredients you will need to the steps involved in concoction. Enjoy the process of creating this timeless cocktail, and most importantly, savor the taste. Cheers!

Common questions

  1. Can I use dark rum instead of light rum? Yes, you can use dark rum instead of light rum if you prefer a richer, more robust flavor.
  2. Can I use a different type of cola? Yes, you can use any cola of your choice. However, it is recommended to use a regular cola for an authentic Cuba Libre taste.
  3. Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime? While fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled lime juice if fresh limes are not available. However, the taste may vary slightly.
  4. Can I add additional ingredients like mint or bitters? Traditionally, a Cuba Libre recipe includes only rum, cola, and lime. However, you can experiment with additional ingredients like mint leaves or bitters to personalize your drink.
  5. Can I make a non-alcoholic version of Cuba Libre? Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of Cuba Libre by substituting the rum with an alcohol-free rum alternative or by omitting it altogether. Adjust the proportions of the other ingredients to your taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Highball glass - A tall, cylindrical glass used for serving mixed drinks like Cuba Libre.
  • Citrus juicer - A tool used to extract the juice from the lime efficiently.
  • Stirring spoon - A long-handled spoon used for gently mixing the ingredients in the glass.
  • Ice cubes - Used for chilling the drink and keeping it refreshing.

Origin stories

The Cuba Libre, a simple yet iconic cocktail, has its beginnings intertwined with a momentous period in history. It hails from the time of the Spanish-American war in the late 19th century. American troops would mix Coca-Cola, introduced to Cuba during the U.S. occupation, with local Cuban rum, adding a squeeze of lime for a touch of the tropics. The drink was a symbol of celebration and camaraderie, often toasted to the cry of "¡Por Cuba Libre!" in honor of a free Cuba. And thus, a classic was born, a refreshing blend of cultures and histories in a single glass.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.