There’s nothing more refreshing than sipping on this classic mojito cocktail on a hot summer day. It’s minty, cool, and absolutely delicious. Even better, it is such an easy cocktail to make at home in a couple of minutes. You also don’t even need any special equipment to make this mojito.
This classic rum cocktail will be your new go-to drink once you learn how to make it. The combination of light, sweet, and fizzy makes it perfect for any occasion. You definitely need this recipe in your back pocket as it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Throwing a party and need another refreshing cocktail? Try my cucumber martini recipe, watermelon margarita recipe, or caipirinha recipe.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Mint — fresh mint is a must. Dried mint is not an option. You can use any type of fresh mints, such as peppermint or spearmint, just make sure you have extra for garnishing. I prefer spearmint as it’s sweeter, more mellow, and easier to find in stores. Make sure to get the freshest mint you can find.
Simple syrup — this adds a nice sweetness to the drink. You can use store-bought or homemade simple syrup. If you prefer, you can also use a different sweetener, such as sugar cane juice, granulated sugar, or superfine sugar.
Rum — traditionally, you use white rum for a mojito, also known as light rum or blanco. White rum is perfect for mojitos as it has a cleaner, fresher taste compared to golden rums, which are aged.
Lime — for the best flavor, always use fresh lime juice. Skip the bottled lime juice, as fresh lime juice tastes brighter and tangier.
Club soda — a splash of club soda at the end gives your cocktail a lovely bubbly texture that makes this drink even more refreshing.
How to Make Mojito
1. In a highball glass, add the mint leaves and simple syrup.
2. Muddle the mint leaves and simple syrup together.
3. Add the rum and lime juice to the glass and fill with ice. Stir to combine.
4. Top with a splash of club soda and garnish with lime and a mint sprig.
Pro Tips for Making This Recipe
- If you do not have club soda, you can swap with a can of sparkling water or Sprite to achieve the same bubbly taste and texture.
- There are so few ingredients in this classic mojito recipe, so make sure to use the best ingredients you can find. It makes all the difference between making the best mojito and just an okay one.
- When you muddle the mint, keep in mind that you do not want to pulverize it or crush it. Instead, you’re gently mashing it just enough to release the oils from the mint, so it infuses with the simple syrup. The cocktail’s texture will also be more enjoyable without pulverized pieces of mint.
- To make the drink even colder, you can chill your glasses in the freezer beforehand.
- As you’re muddling the mint in the glass, make sure you use a sturdy, heavy-bottomed glass.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make homemade simple syrup?
You can purchase simple syrup at the store. However, you can easily make simple syrup for a mojito at home. Make sure to make it ahead of time so it’s not hot. Here’s how to make it:
- Add equal parts water and sugar to a pan.
- Stir and bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat and chill in an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to a week
How do I make a pitcher instead of a glass?
Simply scale up the ingredients to the number of drinks you want to make and combine them. It might be a little more challenging to muddle the mint leaves and simple syrup in a large pitcher, but it’s totally doable!
Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
If you want to make this ahead of time, hold off on the club soda, so it doesn’t lose its fizz and the ice, so it doesn’t melt and dilute the drink. Keep the drink in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
What if I do not have a muddler?
If you don’t have a muddler, an alternative is a long wooden spoon, a thin rolling pin, or even a mortar and pestle if you’re in a pinch. Anything that can gently mash the mint and simple syrup to help them release their juices will work.
What are some variations of this cocktail?
This mojito recipe is the perfect base to experiment with. Here are some fun ideas to try:
- Add some fruit: for a fruity mojito, add some fresh fruit to the mint before you muddle it. Try strawberries, raspberries, or pineapples.
- Add cucumbers: for an even more refreshing drink, muddle a few thinly sliced cucumbers with the mint.
- Add some heat: for a spicier kick, muddle a bit of fresh jalapeño
If you love this recipe try these out!
If you’ve tried this Mojito recipe, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and let me know how you got on in the comments below, I love hearing from you!
Mojito Recipe
Equipment
- Highball cocktail glass
- Cocktail muddler
- Cocktail stirrer
Ingredients
- 8 fresh mint leaves plus garnish
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- 2 ounces white rum
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- Ice
- Club soda
- Lime slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a highball glass, muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup.
- Add the rum and lime juice. Fill the glass with ice. Stir to combine. Top with a space of club soda and garnish with lime and a mint sprig.
Notes
- If you do not have club soda, you can swap with a can of sparkling water or Sprite to achieve the same bubbly taste and texture.
- There are so few ingredients in this classic mojito recipe, so make sure to use the best ingredients you can find. It makes all the difference between a memorable mojito and an okay one.
- When you muddle the mint, keep in mind that you do not want to pulverize it or crush it. Instead, you’re gently mashing it just enough to release the oils from the mint, so it infuses with the simple syrup. The cocktail’s texture will also be more enjoyable without pulverized pieces of mint.
- To make the drink even colder, you can chill your martini glasses in the freezer beforehand.
- As you’re muddling the mint in the glass, make sure you use a sturdy, heavy-bottomed glass.
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