When it comes to Cuban culture, there are few things as iconic as the vibrant music, flavorful cuisine, and of course, the world-renowned cigars.
But if there's one thing that truly captures the essence of Cuba, it's their cocktails. From the classic Mojito to the lesser-known Daiquiri, Cuban cocktails are a celebration of the island's rich history and culture.
But what makes these cocktails so special? For starters, it's the use of fresh ingredients like mint, lime, and sugar cane that give the drinks their distinct flavor. Then there's the way they're made, with a focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Whether you're sipping on a refreshing Daiquiri at the beach or enjoying a bold and complex Cuban Manhattan at a swanky lounge, each cocktail tells a story and evokes a sense of place.
But with so many Cuban cocktail recipes out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's why we've put together a guide to some of the best and most iconic Cuban cocktails.
From the classic recipes that have stood the test of time to modern twists on old favorites, we'll take you on a journey through the flavors and history of Cuban cocktails. So grab a shaker and some fresh ingredients, and let's get mixing!
1. Smooth and Sexy Cuban Manhattan Cocktail
The Smooth and Sexy Cuban Manhattan Cocktail is a sophisticated blend of high-quality rums with a drizzle of bada cherry juice for sweetness. It's perfect for sipping slowly and enjoying the complex flavors.
This cocktail is a great way to transport yourself to a tropical paradise without leaving home. If you're looking for a sophisticated and complex drink, give the Smooth and Sexy Cuban Manhattan Cocktail a try.
2. Old Cuban Cocktail
The Old Cuban Cocktail is a refreshing and sophisticated drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with aged rum, mint, and sparkling wine, this cocktail is sure to cool you down and transport you to a tropical paradise. Created in the early 2000s by Audrey Sanders, proprietor of the Pegu Club in New York City, the Old Cuban Cocktail is a modern twist on a classic Cuban drink.
With its combination of sweet and tangy flavors, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting summer drink. So why not give the Old Cuban Cocktail a try and experience the taste of the tropics in your own home?
3. Mojito
Mojito is a classic Cuban cocktail that is perfect for summer evenings. It is made with rum, lime juice, mint leaves, and club soda. The combination of these ingredients creates a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and minty flavors that will leave you wanting more.
The Mojito is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. It is a refreshing and delicious drink that is a must-try for anyone who loves cocktails.
4. Canchanchara
The Canchanchara is a refreshing Cuban cocktail made with rum, lime, and honey. It was created by pro-independence guerrilla fighters in the 1860s as a remedy for the morning cold.
The cocktail is a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the Cuban people. The Canchanchara is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of Cuban culture.
5. Classic Mojito
The Classic Mojito is a refreshing and iconic Cuban cocktail that has stood the test of time. Originating from Havana, Cuba, it is a sour cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a patio or dreaming of the beach. The drink is made by muddling mint and adding lime juice, rum, and simple syrup, then shaking it in a cocktail shaker and topping it off with club soda.
What sets this mojito recipe apart is that it is not too sweet, making it refreshingly tart and perfect for those who enjoy a nuanced cocktail. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a laid back evening on your own, the Classic Mojito is a must-try for anyone who loves Cuban cocktails.
6. Blueberry Mojito Cocktail
The Blueberry Mojito Cocktail is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. This cocktail combines the sweetness of blueberries with the freshness of mint, lime, and rum.
The recipe is easy to make and can be scaled up for larger gatherings. This cocktail is perfect for summer sipping and is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavor. It's a must-try for anyone looking to explore new spins on classic cocktails.
7. El Presidente Cocktail
The El Presidente Cocktail is a lesser-known Cuban classic that deserves a spot in your cocktail repertoire. It's a boozy, stirred cocktail that's more like a Manhattan, made with aged rum, vermouth blanc, orange liqueur, and grenadine. The aged rum brings a nuanced flavor with undertones of vanilla, coconut, almond, citrus, or caramel.
The orange liqueur adds a subtle sweetness, while the grenadine brings a rosy color to the drink. This sophisticated and unique cocktail is perfect for sipping slowly and savoring the complex flavors. If you're looking for a Cuban cocktail that's different from the usual daiquiri or mojito, the El Presidente is a must-try.
8. Cuban Breeze Cocktail
The Cuban Breeze Cocktail is a tropical and refreshing drink that is perfect for a summer party or a relaxing evening at home. Made with amaretto, vodka, and pineapple juice, this cocktail has a sweet and tangy flavor that is sure to please any palate.
The addition of fresh lime juice gives it a zesty kick that really brings out the flavors of the other ingredients. This cocktail is easy to make and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, whether you're sipping it on a beach or lounging in your backyard. If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying Cuban cocktail, the Cuban Breeze is definitely one to try.
9. Cuban Old Fashioned
The Cuban Old Fashioned is a unique twist on the classic old fashioned cocktail. This recipe incorporates Cuban coffee, bitters, and bourbon, resulting in a bold and flavorful drink with a caffeine kick. The use of Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon adds a smooth and nutty taste to the cocktail, making it a perfect choice for bourbon lovers.
The addition of citrus rind adds a refreshing twist to the drink. This cocktail is a must-try for those who love both coffee and bourbon. Its bold and complex flavors make it a standout among other Cuban cocktail recipes.
10. Aged Dark Rum Mojito
The Aged Dark Rum Mojito is a refreshing and flavorful twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. Made with premium dark rum, fresh mint, brown sugar, lime, and sparkling soda water, this cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day on a patio or at a backyard barbecue.
The use of aged dark rum adds a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness, citrus, and herbaceousness of the traditional mojito ingredients. While the origins of the mojito are debated, its popularity as a refreshing summer drink cannot be denied. For those looking to elevate their mojito game, the Aged Dark Rum Mojito is a must-try.
11. Pineapple Mojito Cocktail
The Pineapple Mojito Cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic Cuban Mojito. This cocktail features premium rum, fresh mint, white sugar, lime, pineapple juice, and sparkling soda water. The addition of fresh pineapple juice gives this cocktail a tangy and tropical flavor that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
The Pineapple Mojito Cocktail is easy to make and is sure to impress your guests at any summer gathering. If you're looking for a fun and refreshing cocktail to add to your repertoire, the Pineapple Mojito Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
12. Cuban Mojitos
The Cuban Mojito is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. Made with fresh mint, lime juice, sugar, and white rum, this refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days. What sets this mojito apart from others is the use of aromatic bitters, which balances out the sweetness of the mint and sugar.
The secret ingredient is what makes this cocktail truly authentic. Although Cuban rum is not widely available in the United States due to trade restrictions, good white rum from the US or Puerto Rico can be used as a substitute. If you're looking for a taste of Cuba, the Cuban Mojito is a must-try cocktail.
13. Pineapple Mojito
The Pineapple Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. It combines the traditional ingredients of rum, lime juice, sugar, and mint leaves with the sweet taste of pineapple. The tropical fruit adds a fruity kick to the drink, making it the perfect thirst quencher on a hot summer day.
The cocktail can be garnished with mint sprigs and pineapple wedges for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. For those who prefer a different type of alcohol, tequila or vodka can be used instead of rum. The Pineapple Mojito is a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing and fruity cocktail.
14. Chocolate Mojito
The Chocolate Mojito is a fun and refreshing twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. This cocktail recipe combines the traditional flavors of mint, lime juice, and rum with a chocolate twist that will leave your taste buds wanting more. The addition of crème de cacao gives this cocktail a unique and delicious flavor that is perfect for any summer occasion.
This cocktail is easy to make and can be enjoyed by both adults and children alike. The Chocolate Mojito is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their cocktail game. So, grab your shaker and get ready to indulge in this delicious and refreshing Cuban cocktail.
15. Blood Orange Mojito
The Blood Orange Mojito is a refreshing and colorful twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. Made with mint, lime, sugar, and rum, this cocktail is muddled with crimson sweet blood oranges, giving it a bright red color that is sure to catch your eye. The addition of club soda adds a bubbly finish that perfectly complements the citrusy flavors.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy fruity and refreshing drinks, especially during the winter season when citrus fruits are in season. If you're looking for a fun and flavorful cocktail to try, the Blood Orange Mojito is definitely worth a taste.
16. Strawberry Mojito
The Strawberry Mojito is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. Made with fresh strawberries and lime, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer day. The addition of the strawberries adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the mint and rum perfectly.
This cocktail is easy to make at home with just a few ingredients, making it a great choice for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a relaxing evening at home. If you're looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to add to your repertoire, the Strawberry Mojito is definitely worth a try.
17. The Old Cuban Cocktail
The Old Cuban Cocktail is a modern classic rum cocktail that is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast. Created by Audrey Saunders in New York, this cocktail is an upgrade from the classic Mojito and has all the flavors of a stunning Cuban cocktail. It's a perfect blend of rum, mint, lime, and bitters, with the addition of champagne or sparkling wine, which gives it a unique twist.
This cocktail is perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed all year round. The Old Cuban Cocktail is definitely one of the best Cuban cocktail recipes out there, and it's worth trying if you're looking for something new and exciting to add to your cocktail repertoire.
18. Frozen Coconut Mojito
The Frozen Coconut Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. Perfect for sipping on a hot summer day, this creamy and dreamy frozen cocktail is made with rum, coconut water, coconut milk, lime juice, and fresh mint leaves.
The sweetness is just right, and the mint adds a refreshing touch to the drink. It's a perfect cocktail to enjoy poolside or at a BBQ with friends and family. If you're a fan of coconut and love a good mojito, this is the perfect cocktail for you.
19. Bacardi Mojito
The Bacardi Mojito is a refreshing Cuban cocktail that combines the flavors of white rum, lime juice, sugar, soda water, and mint. The cocktail is traditionally made with only five ingredients, but can be customized by adding fruit or adjusting the proportions of the ingredients. Bacardi, one of the most accessible brands of white rum, is the recommended choice for this cocktail.
The mint adds a delightful herbaceous flavor to the drink, making it a perfect summer cocktail. If you're a fan of lime, you can try the lime-flavored rum version, but for those who love the mint, the unflavored white rum version is the way to go. With its balance of flavors and customizable options, the Bacardi Mojito is definitely worth trying.
20. Blackberry Mojitos
The Blackberry Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic Cuban cocktail, made with rum, mint, lime, soda water, and fresh blackberries.
The addition of blackberries not only adds a beautiful color to the drink but also a delicious fruity flavor that perfectly complements the mint and lime.
This cocktail is perfect for those who love the classic mojito but want to try something new and exciting.
It's also a great option for those who want to cut back on sugar or enjoy a non-alcoholic version by omitting the rum.
Pair this cocktail with light and flavorful meals such as grilled chicken or fish, watermelon salsa, or spring rolls.
The Blackberry Mojito is a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing and delicious cocktail.
21. Pomegranate Green Tea Mojitos
Looking for a refreshing and unique twist on a classic Cuban cocktail? Look no further than the Pomegranate Green Tea Mojito. This Moroccan-inspired drink takes the traditional mint and lime flavors of a mojito and adds in the sweet and tangy taste of pomegranate, as well as the subtle earthiness of green tea.
The result is a perfectly balanced cocktail that is both refreshing and flavorful. Even better, the recipe can easily be adapted to be non-alcoholic by omitting the rum. So whether you're looking for a new cocktail to try or a refreshing drink to enjoy on a hot day, the Pomegranate Green Tea Mojito is definitely worth a try.
22. Watermelon Mojito
The Watermelon Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. Made with watermelon vodka instead of rum, this cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day by the pool. The delicately sweet flavor of the watermelon vodka adds a unique twist to the traditional mojito.
The key to making a great Watermelon Mojito is to take your time when muddling the mint, lime, and watermelon. If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to enjoy this summer, the Watermelon Mojito is definitely worth a try.
23. Classic Daiquiri
The Classic Daiquiri is a simple yet authentic Cuban cocktail that is sure to impress your taste buds. Unlike its frozen American counterparts, the Classic Daiquiri is made with only three ingredients and is served straight up.
The balance between the smooth flavor of quality rum, the tanginess of lime juice, and the sweetness of simple syrup is what makes this cocktail stand out. The use of rich simple syrup gives the cocktail a bit more mouthfeel, making it a perfect drink for any occasion. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, the Classic Daiquiri is definitely worth a try.
24. Watermelon Mojitos
If you're looking for a refreshing twist on a classic Cuban cocktail, look no further than the Watermelon Mojito. This cocktail combines the traditional flavors of lime and mint with fresh watermelon juice for a sweet and fruity summer drink. Made with white rum, the Watermelon Mojito is a perfect poolside sipper or party pitcher.
The subtle flavor of white rum won't overpower the other ingredients, making it a great option for those who are new to rum cocktails. So why not try something different this summer and give the Watermelon Mojito a try? It might just become your new favorite cocktail.
25. Mint Mojito
The Mint Mojito is a refreshing and delicious Cuban cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and fresh mint leaves, this cocktail is a great way to showcase the aromatic and herbaceous flavors of mint.
The combination of tart lime and fizzy soda water adds a nice balance to the sweetness of the simple syrup, making it a well-rounded drink. Garnished with lime slices and fresh mint sprigs, it's also a visually appealing cocktail that looks like it came straight from a fancy bar. If you're looking for a fun and easy-to-make cocktail that will impress your guests, give the Mint Mojito a try.
