Sip into summer with this effortless Cuba Libre recipe! This classic cocktail is your ticket to instant relaxation, made with rum, cola, and a splash of lime.
Prep time:
1 minute
Mixing time:
1 minute
Servings:
1
Calories:
176
Ingredients
- 2 oz Rum
- 4 oz Cola
- ½ oz lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Highball Glass
- Measuring Jigger
- Bar spoon
Instructions
- Prep Glass: Fill your highball glass with ice cubes.
- Add Lime: Measure and pour ½ oz lime juice juice over the ice.
- Add Rum: Pour 2 oz Rum into the glass.
- Add Cola: Fill up the glass with approximately 4 oz Cola into the glass.
- Stir: Using a bar spoon, gently stir the cocktail.
- Garnish: Squeeze and drop a lime wedge into the glass for garnish.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Rum: I've used whiskey as a substitute if I run out of rum. It changes the flavor profile but still pairs well with cola and lime.
- Cola: I've used ginger ale or lemon-lime soda in a pinch. The taste is different but still refreshing.
- Lime: Bottled lime juice can work if fresh limes aren't available. Just be cautious with the amount; it's often more concentrated.
Making a Pitcher:
- Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 16 oz of rum, 32 oz of cola, and 4 oz of lime juice.
- Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the rum, freshly squeezed lime juice, and cola. Stir well.
- Serve: Pour the mixture into ice-filled highball glasses, garnish with a lime wedge, and serve immediately.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Rum Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic rum substitute or even coconut water for a tropical twist.
- Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes instead of the regular ingredients, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version of the cocktail.
Making it Vegan:
- Cola: Most mainstream colas are already vegan, but it's always good to check the label for any animal-derived ingredients.
- Lime: No issues here; lime is naturally vegan.
- Rum: Most rums are vegan, but some premium rums might use animal-derived products in their filtration process. Always check the label or the manufacturer's website to be sure.
What is a Cuba Libre?
A Cuba Libre cocktail combines cola, lime, and rum. “Cuba Libre” translates to “Free Cuba,” a nod to its historical roots tied to Cuban independence. It is noteworthy that the International Bartender Association (IBA) actively recognizes the cocktail as a ‘Contemporary Classic’.
What is a Cuba Libre Made of – The Ingredients
You need the following ingredients to make a Cuba Libre:
- Rum: Provides the alcoholic base and adds a touch of tropical sweetness.
- Cola: Offers effervescence and a caramel-like sweetness that balances the rum.
- Lime: Injects a burst of citrus, brightening the drink and cutting through the sweetness.
- Ice Cubes: Keep the cocktail chilled, enhancing its refreshing qualities.
- Lime Wedge (optional for garnish): Adds a visual element and a hint of citrus when squeezed.
