This simple cocktail is perfectly refreshing, quick to make, and absolutely delicious. It's like a fancy rum and coke that went on a culinary adventure through Cuba. Sip and enjoy...

The Cuba libre is about as simple as a cocktail as you can make. And in its simplicity, is the subtle perfection of it.
The trick, I discovered while sitting in an open-air cafe one afternoon in Havana. We were parched, the weather was getting to the stickiest part of the day, and nothing sounded better than a sweet simple libation, on ice.
It was the shape of the glass, and the use of the lime wedge that set this cocktail apart. Essentially, using the citrus as a block, to layer the Cuban rum under the soda. Which takes what could be a boring basic cocktail, and elevates it to an epicurean level.

What you need for the perfect Cuba Libre
- vanilla rum
- Rum
- splash of lime juice
- Cola
- ice
- lime wedges for garnish
How to make this rum cocktail
You could simply mix everything together in a glass. That works.
Or, you could layer things.
Start by pouring the rum into the bottom of the glass.
Carefully wedge a lime over the rum.
Gently add a little ice and pour the lime juice and cola on top.
Serve with a long straw or cocktail pick to each person can swirl as desired.

Check out the rest of my summer cocktails
Give the classic rum & coke a try while you're at it.
Vanilla Cuba Libre

- 2 oz vanilla rum
- 2 oz rum
- splash of lime juice
- 8 oz cola
- ice
- lime wedges for garnish
- Fill a glass with ice. Pour both of the rum shots into the glass and top off with cola. Squeeze in some fresh lime juice. Give a stir to mix the liquids and serve with a fresh lime wedge to garnish.
Katrina @ Warm Vanilla Sugar says
Perfect for backyard sipping!! Love this!
Emily @ Life on Food says
Just what I want for a Friday evening cool down.
Katalina @ Peas & Peonies says
Love this refreshing drink, also can you please let me know where is your Yum button, I want to add this to my Recipe box. thanks
Kita says
Hi Katalina, My Yum buttons can be found on both my social share bars - one hovering to the left of the screen and on at the bottom of each post before comments. Thank you~