Chaotic Pear Publications

As summer approaches, there’s no better way to embrace the warm weather than with 3 refreshing Cuban cocktail recipes. As a proud Cuban, I’m excited to share some authentic recipes for classic favorites like Piña Coladas, Mojitos, and Cuba Libres. Let’s raise a glass to summer!

1. Piña Colada

Description: Originating in Puerto Rico in the 1950s, the Piña Colada has become synonymous with tropical paradise. Its name translates to “strained pineapple,” highlighting its key ingredient. Sipping a Piña Colada instantly transports you to a sun-soaked beach, surrounded by swaying palm trees and gentle ocean breezes.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum
• 3 oz pineapple juice
• 1 oz coconut cream
• 1 cup crushed ice
• Pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the white rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and crushed ice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into a chilled glass.
4. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical bliss of a classic Piña Colada!

NON- ALCOHOLIC:

• 3 oz pineapple juice
• 2 oz coconut cream
• 1 oz cream of coconut
• 1 cup crushed ice
• Pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry for garnish

(Follow the same instructions as above and enjoy!)

2. Mojito

Description: Dating back to the 16th century in Cuba, the Mojito has a rich history steeped in tradition. Originally crafted as a medicinal elixir using rum, lime, sugar, and mint, it later evolved into the iconic cocktail we know today. Ernest Hemingway was known to frequent Havana’s bars, where he enjoyed many Mojitos during his time in Cuba.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp white sugar
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• Soda water
• Crushed ice

Instructions:

1. In a glass, muddle the fresh mint leaves with the lime juice and sugar until the mint releases its aroma.
2. Fill the glass with crushed ice.
3. Add the white rum and stir well.
4. Top off with soda water.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime wedge.
6. Stir gently and enjoy the crisp, refreshing taste of an authentic Mojito!

NON- ALCOHOLIC:

• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp white sugar
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• Soda water
• Crushed ice

(Follow the same instructions as above and enjoy!)

3. Cuba Libre

Description: Also known as the “Rum and Coke,” the Cuba Libre has a storied past dating back to the early 20th century. Legend has it that American soldiers stationed in Cuba during the Spanish-American War mixed local rum with cola and lime to celebrate their victory. The iconic drink quickly gained popularity and became a symbol of freedom and camaraderie.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz dark rum
• 4 oz cola
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• Lime wedge for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Add the dark rum and fresh lime juice.
3. Top off with cola.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
6. Kick back and savor the bold, invigorating flavors of a classic Cuba Libre!

NON- ALCOHOLIC: (This one is hard to make non-alcoholic due to the whole rum is in the name thing; but that doesn’t mean we can’t add a little bit of something to make our coke stand out)

• 4 oz cola
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• Lime wedge for garnish
• Ice cubes

(Follow the same instructions as above and enjoy)

These authentic Cuban cocktails are perfect for celebrating summer with friends and family. From the tropical sweetness of the Piña Colada to the zesty kick of the Mojito and the bold simplicity of the Cuba Libre, each sip is a taste of Cuban culture and tradition. Salud!