This delicious and easy cuba libre drink is totally “libre” from alcohol!
We love taking a classic mixed drink and making it into a delicious non alcoholic mocktail. We thought the Cuba Libre would be the perfect drink to revamp. It has been around for decades and is definitely in need of a mocktail makeover.
We are up for the challenge! Let us tell you a little bit about our Virgin Cuba Libre drink.
What is Cuba Libre?
The Cuba Libre was created in Cuba during the ten year war. While Cuba fought to gain independence from Spain, soldiers would try to relax with a mix of honey or molasses, water and rum. This was the original Cuba libre.
Once Cuba was free from Spanish rule, American businesses ran to Cuba to sell their goods. One of the first products to hit Cuba was Coca Cola. Coke syrup was sent to the country in mass quantities and was immediately incorporated into mixed drinks, including the Cuba Libre.
The syrup was said to be so sweet that the lime juice was added to cut back on the sugary taste of the Coke. The Cuba Libre as we know it today was born!
Cuba Libre Meaning
If you’re wondering what “cuba libre” means in English, the answer is “Free Cuba”. The country is completely independent making it quite free. “Cuba Libre” was often said as a toast after the Spanish left Cuba.
Seems like a fitting name for a drink that was created after the country gained its independence! The cuba libre story is a fun one for sure.
Virgin Cuba Libre
Some may say that asking for a virgin Cuba libre is essentially just asking for a glass of coca cola. However, there is a little bit more to it. The traditional Cuba libre cocktail often gets mixed up with the regular rum and coke.
Both drinks are made from primarily rum and coca-cola but the Cuba Libre ingredients include a twist of lime. This is the key to our mocktail!
Here are the ingredients for our Cuba Really Libre:
- Coca cola- One of the most essential cuba libre ingredients
- Lime- The key to the mocktail. Lime adds a tangy flavor that makes the whole drink
- Vanilla- Vanilla adds a subtle sweetness and makes the cuba libre drink more powerful. Original cuba libres were made with extra coca cola syrup and adding a little vanilla extract is reminiscent of those first drinks.
- Ice- Virgin cuba libre is best cold!
Add the ice to a large glass and pour in all of the ingredients. Give the drink a quick stir and enjoy!
Non Alcoholic Cuba Libre Drink
Of course, we had to remake the drink to fit the non alcoholic lifestyle. Our Cuba Really Libre is totally alcohol free making it really, really “libre”! Yet, it still captures the great taste of the classic drink.
A little zesty lime, sweet vanilla and classic coke- it’s a perfect mocktail with a rich history. Give our virgin cuba libre recipe a try and let us know how much you love it!
«Cuba Really Libre» Mocktail – Signature Collection
2
servings5
minutesIngredients
8 ounces (2 cups) Coca-Cola
1 lime
¼ tsp vanilla extract (non alcoholic)
Ice
Directions
- Fill two highball glasses with ice
- Squeeze the juice from ½ a lime into each glass
- Add ⅛ tsp vanilla to each glass
- Add the Coca-Cola to each glass and use a cocktail stirrer to gently mix the drinks
- Serve while cold
Tips and Tricks
- • Garnish the drink with an extra lime wedge slice and keep the cocktail stirrer in the glass as well.
• You can find non alcoholic vanilla in most grocery stores. Real vanilla contains a very small amount of alcohol that is negligible, but if you are looking to completely abstain from alcohol, choose the non-alcoholic version. - Area of Use:
• Afternoon drink
• Summer drink
• Cocktail Hour
• Cocktail Party
• Summer Party
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You Asked, We’re Answering
Do you have questions about Cuba Libre? We can help answer them! We have answered a few of the most frequently asked questions here, for you. If you are still wondering something, feel free to ask in the comments below!
Why is the drink called Cuba Libre?
The Cuba Libre dates back to the early 1900’s, right after the Spanish-American war which led to Cuba’s independence. The phrase “Cuba Libre” was the battle cry of the Cuban Army. Around this time, coca cola syrup was imported to Cuba and the cocktail was first created. Cuba’s independence and the arrival of coca cola were perfectly timed. The cocktail was dubbed Cuba Libre!
What is the difference between rum and coke and a Cuba Libre?
Cuba libre is made with fresh lime juice while a rum and coke has no other ingredients other than white rum and coca cola. The lime is the difference.
Which rum is best for Cuba Libre?
Cuba libres are typically made with golden rum. Of course, our virgin cuba libre skips the rum all together!
How much alcohol is in a Cuba Libre?
The typical drink has 4.7% alcohol by volume. Our virgin drink has 0%!
Who invented the Cuba Libre?
Legend has it that a captain in the US army who was stationed in Havana poured coca cola and lime juice into his glass of rum and then made the toast “Por Cuba Libre!” (to a free Cuba). The drink was an instant hit.
What’s the famous Cuban drink?
The most famous cuban drink is probably the mojito. However, the Cuba Libre may be a close second!
What are Cuban drinks?
There are quite a few cocktails that can be considered Cuban. The mojito, cuba libre, cuban ginger, daiquiri, and pina colada are just a few of the most popular drinks.
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