Home · Recipes · Drinks · Cocktails · Classic Cuba Libre Author: Maryanne CabreraPublished: Oct 3, 2013Updated: Feb 15, 2024 View Recipe5 ReviewsThis post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy. Cuba Libre is a classic cocktail also known as Rum and Coke. There are many variations of this popular drink. Traditionally, it consists of rum, cola, and lime juice. Table of Contents Cocktail IngredientsCocktail VariationsStep-by-Step InstructionsMore Rum Drink RecipesCuba LibreView moreView less When life gives you limes…make a Cuba Libre! The drink’s name translates to “Free Cuba.” It supposedly originated in Cuba when the country won independence in the Spanish–American War. It’s a super easy cocktail that tastes delicious and refreshing. The fresh lime juice adds much brightness making this a cocktail perfect anytime of year! Cocktail Ingredients These super easy cocktail only requires three ingredients: rum, cola, and lime juice. Rum: Use your choice of light or dark rum. I recommend Mount Gay Eclipse Rum, which you can easily find this rum at Trader Joe’s, Total Wine, and BevMo. It’s great for mixed drinks. Cola: Traditionally, Cuba Libre drink is made with Coca-Cola. For a reduced calorie version, swap in Diet Coke. Lime: Fresh squeezed lime juice produces the best flavor. Add more lime juice depending on your desired tartness. Cocktail Variations Switch up the flavors of Cuba Libre by using different types of rum. Your choice of white, aged, dark, or spiced rum will produce slightly different variations. If you prefer a different liquor, this recipe works well with whiskey. Whiskey pairs perfectly with Coke as proven in these Jack and Coke Slushies. There are also several types of Cola-cola to choose from. Vanilla Coke, Cherry Coke, or Vanilla Cherry Coke are great options. Step-by-Step Instructions 1. Fill glass with ice. Add in rum. 2. Add lime juice and if desired, squeezed lime wedges. 3. Top with chilled Coca-cola. Stir gently and serve. More Rum Drink Recipes Citrus Rum Punch Blackberry Pineapple Rum Cocktail Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum Cocktail Cuba Libre 5 from 1 vote Cuba Libre is a classic cocktail also known as Rum and Coke. There are many variations of this popular drink. Traditionally, it consists of rum, cola, and lime juice. Prep Time: 5 minutes minutesTotal Time: 5 minutes minutes Servings: 1 (multiply as needed) Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate Recipe Ingredients▢ 2 oz dark rum or light rum▢ ½ oz fresh squeezed lime juice or more to taste▢ 4 oz Coca-cola or Diet Coke, or more to taste, cold▢ lime wedges to garnish▢ large ice cubes Instructions Fill a tall highball glass (or collins glass) with ice. Pour in rum. Add in lime juice (and if desired, squeezed lime wedges). Top off with chilled Coca-cola. Gently stir together and serve. Notes Recommend Mount Gay Eclipse Rum Fresh squeezed lime juice produces the best flavor. Add more lime juice depending on your desired tartness. This recipe also works well with whiskey. NutritionCalories: 176kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 5mg | Potassium: 20mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 7IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.1mg Author: Maryanne Cabrera Course: DrinksCuisine: American Did you make this recipe?Show us on Instagram! Tag @littleepicurean and hashtag #littleepicurean.
Alexander says: October 3, 2013 Looking at that GIF makes want a Coke so badly. Love your post; great pictures. Reply
Brian @ A Thought For Food says: October 4, 2013 Yup, I think I could enjoy a few of these. Preferably while laying out on a beach. Reply
Koon and Amy says: October 7, 2013 Nice post. I enjoy reading your posts and I am following your blog. Reply
Maryanne says: October 13, 2013 Thanks! It depends on your preference. I used about a tablespoon of lime juice, it adds a nice depth of flavor and balances out the alcohol. Although, some people like just a squeeze of lime. I say try out a little lime and work your way up until you like how it tastes :)