The Recipe · No.1052 · Virgin Cuba Libre (Cuba Libre Mocktail)
Virgin Cuba Libre (Cuba Libre Mocktail), and where to source it
What separates a Cuba Libre from a plain rum-and-coke is the fresh lime, so with the rum gone the lime is everything. Squeeze a real half in and drop the shell in the glass; a wedge on the rim alone won't cut the cola's sweetness.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep3 min
Cook0 min
Makesmakes 1
CuisineHighball
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for1servings
Our ratio, your call. The amounts below are a tested starting point — a version, not the one and only. Anything tagged to taste is the knob you turn: start there, then make it yours.
Cola
Cold, freshly opened, ideally a cane-sugar cola with real bite. Flat cola makes the whole thing limp.
toprecommended
Local / market
Fresh lime
Half a lime, squeezed and dropped in. This is the line between a Cuba Libre and flavored soda.
halfrecommended
Local / market
Aromatic bitters
A couple dashes stand in for the rum's warmth. Skip if you want it kid-simple.
2 dashesrecommended
Local / market
Ice
Fill the glass so the cola stays cold and bright.
1 glassrecommended
Local / market
The Rundown
Greedometer●●●●●Barely a splurge
A light hand — your arteries say thanks.
EffortEasy
Cook it with
No-cook
The Method
BuildFill a tall glass with ice. Squeeze in the lime and drop the shell in.
TopPour cold cola to fill, adding bitters if using.
Can you make Virgin Cuba Libre (Cuba Libre Mocktail) in an air fryer? — Not needed
No cooking needed here — this one comes together without heat, so the air fryer sits it out.
Can you freeze Virgin Cuba Libre (Cuba Libre Mocktail)? — Yes
Yes — cool it, portion into airtight containers, and freeze; thaw in the fridge and reheat.
Can you make Virgin Cuba Libre (Cuba Libre Mocktail) ahead of time? — Partly
The components hold — prep the parts ahead and finish it close to serving for the best texture.
Is Virgin Cuba Libre (Cuba Libre Mocktail) gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Virgin Cuba Libre (Cuba Libre Mocktail) vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
Community Notes
Made it, tweaked it, or recognize which restaurant this tastes like? Leave a note — first-name basis, no account.