Havana Cocktail
The Havana Cocktail is a refreshing blend that captures the vibrant spirit of Cuba, combining light rum, fresh lime juice, and a hint of sweetness from sugar or simple syrup.
- 5 min
- Easy
- Cocktail glass
- 3 ingredients
Havana Cocktail
Ingredients
- Light rum1 oz
- Pineapple juice1 oz
- Lemon juice1 tsp
Method
- In a shaker half-filled with ice cubes, combine all of the ingredients.
- Shake well.
- Strain into a cocktail glass.
What you need
Nothing fancy. Here is what to look for. We earn a small cut if you buy through these links, at no cost to you.
A shaker that seals
Two weighted tins beat three-piece shakers. They chill faster and never jam.
See on Amazon ↗A hand citrus press
Fresh juice is the biggest upgrade you can make to any sour drink.
See on Amazon ↗The hero bottle
See 42 Light rum drinksWhere it comes from
The Havana Cocktail is rooted in Cuban cocktail culture and the legendary rum heritage of Cuba, which has shaped Caribbean mixology for centuries. This drink reflects the sophistication of Havana's golden era when the city was a cosmopolitan hub for rum-based cocktails. The cocktail embodies the romance and elegance associated with pre-Revolution Cuban culture.
Tips from the bar
- Use authentic Cuban rum for geographical authenticity
- serve chilled in a coupe glass
- fresh lime juice is essential for balance
- garnish with fresh mint or lime wheel
Twists worth trying
- Modern Havana
- Contemporary interpretation using aged rum and additional aromatic ingredients
- Havana Sour
- Incorporates lime juice and simple syrup for classic sour structure
- Havana Mojito Style
- Adds fresh mint and soda water for refreshing mojito qualities
What to eat with it
- Cuban sandwich
- Black beans and rice
- Ropa vieja
- Plantain chips
- Ceviche
- Tropical fruit desserts
The finished drink
Questions
What is in a Havana Cocktail?
A Havana Cocktail is made with light rum, pineapple juice, lemon juice.
What glass do you use for a Havana Cocktail?
Serve a Havana Cocktail in a cocktail glass.
What does a Havana Cocktail taste like?
Expect rum, citrusy, refreshing.
What can I make with Light rum?
We have 42 drinks built around Light rum. See them all on the Light rum page.
More with Light rum
Every Light rum drink →One good drink, every Friday.
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