A Cuban Breeze is one of those cocktails that just feels like sunshine in a glass. It’s got that perfect balance of nutty sweetness from Amaretto, tropical brightness from pineapple juice, and a smooth kick from white rum. It’s light, fruity, and surprisingly flavorful—ideal for backyard get-togethers, beach days, or just a quiet evening on the patio.
Cuban Breeze
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting the recipe: fresh pineapple juice makes all the difference. It gives the drink a cleaner, brighter flavor that canned juice just can’t match.
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Highball or Collins glass
Equipment: Cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) white rum
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) Amaretto
– 3 oz (90 ml) fresh pineapple juice
– Ice (for shaking and serving)
– Pineapple slice or maraschino cherry, for garnish
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the white rum, Amaretto, and pineapple juice.
- Shake it well—about 15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels cold. That’s your sign it’s ready.
- Fill a chilled highball glass with fresh ice.
- Strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice or cherry. A little umbrella never hurts, either.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh pineapple juice if you can—it adds a punchier, more tropical flavor.
– Chill your glass ahead of time so the drink stays nice and cold longer.
– Don’t skimp on the shake—this helps blend the nutty and fruity flavors evenly.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the rum and Amaretto a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge in a sealed container. Add the pineapple juice and shake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredient Swaps
– No Amaretto? Try hazelnut liqueur or even a splash of almond syrup (for a non-alcoholic twist).
– Swap white rum for dark rum if you like a richer, deeper flavor.
– Not a fan of pineapple? Mango juice works beautifully too—just a bit thicker and sweeter.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs well with:
Grilled Chicken
The smoky flavors play off the sweet and tangy notes in the drink.
Spicy Bites
Think jalapeño poppers or spicy shrimp skewers. The Cuban Breeze cools the heat and refreshes your palate.
Fresh Salads
A citrusy salad with arugula, orange segments, and feta makes a crisp, bright pairing.
Why This Cocktail Works
The magic of a Cuban Breeze is in its balance. The almond flavor of Amaretto gives it warmth, the pineapple juice brings in tropical acidity, and the rum rounds it out with a gentle kick. It’s layered but easy to sip—great for beginners and seasoned cocktail lovers alike.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, especially when I want something that feels special but takes less than five minutes to make.
Variations to Try
Brazilian Breeze
– Use cachaça instead of rum
– Add a splash of lime juice
– Garnish with a lime wheel
Tropical Breeze
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) coconut milk
– Splash in a bit of blue curaçao
– Serve over crushed ice for a slushy texture
Berry Breeze
– Muddle a few fresh berries (like raspberries or blackberries) in the shaker
– Proceed with the original recipe
– Strain into glass, garnish with more berries
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Mix 3 oz (90 ml) pineapple juice with 0.5 oz (15 ml) almond syrup
– Add a splash of coconut water or lime juice
– Serve over ice with a cherry or citrus twist
Storage
If you’re batching this for a party, you can mix the rum and Amaretto ahead and refrigerate. Add pineapple juice and shake with ice just before serving. Don’t store the full mixed drink with ice—it’ll get watered down and lose its punch.
FAQs
Can I blend it instead of shaking?
Yes! Blend all ingredients with a cup of ice for a frozen version. It’s fantastic on hot days.
How do I make it less sweet?
Cut back the Amaretto slightly or use a drier rum. Adding a splash of lime juice can also balance out the sweetness.
What’s the best rum to use?
A light, clean white rum works best. But if you like a bit more depth, try a lightly aged or spiced rum.
Can I make it in a pitcher for a crowd?
Absolutely. Multiply the ingredients by how many servings you need. Mix in a pitcher, chill, and shake individual portions with ice before serving.
How do I know it’s shaken enough?
When the outside of your shaker feels cold and starts to sweat—that’s your cue.
What if I don’t have a shaker?
Use a mason jar with a tight lid. Add the ingredients and ice, seal it, and give it a good shake.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re lounging by the pool or just dreaming of a beach vacation, the Cuban Breeze is a cocktail that brings the tropics to you. It’s simple, versatile, and a real crowd-pleaser. Try it once, and it might just become one of your favorites too.
