If you’re looking for a quintessential summer cocktail, a classic mint mojito recipe never fails! Whether you’re lounging poolside, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply craving a taste of the tropics, this iconic Cuban cocktail instantly elevates any occasion. It’s also super easy to make, with no cocktail shaker needed.
Mojitos are famously known as a favorite drink of Ernest Hemingway during his time living in Cuba. He loved them so much there are even mojito recipe variations named after him, like the “Papa Doble” and “Hemingway Daiquiri” that he frequently sipped on in a Havana bar. What’s not to love about mojito recipes? The cocktails are a balanced combination of light, refreshing, and zesty, perfect for instantly cooling you off during hot summer days. For more refreshing cocktail recipes, try my cucumber martini, watermelon margaritas, or caipirinha.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Mint – fresh mint leaves are one of the star ingredients in this cocktail and add a refreshing, cool flavor. You will need it for muddling and as a garnish.
Simple Syrup – I prefer to use simple syrup rather than granulated sugar cane, which is used in a classic mojito recipe. The liquid form makes preparation easier and it seamlessly blends into the classic cocktail.
White Rum – choose your favorite high-quality silver or light rum for a clean, smooth flavor profile. For the most authentic mojito drink flavor, use Cuban rum or rum made in Puerto Rico which is similar in flavor.
Fresh Limes – always opt for fresh lime juice for the best flavor! You will also need lime wedges for garnish. I recommend keeping a bowl of limes on hand during the summer to be ready to make this drink anytime the craving hits!
Club Soda – adds a light, bubbly, fizzy flavor and texture and helps to balance the other mojito ingredients. Alternatively, you can use sparkling water.
How to Make Mojitos
1. In a highball glass or tall glass, add the mint leaves and the simple syrup.
2. Use a cocktail muddler to gently muddle the mint with the syrup.
3. Add the rum and lime juice then fill the glass with ice cubes. Use a stir stick or bar spoon to combine.
4. Top with a splash of club soda and garnish with lime and a mint sprig.
Pro Tips for Making This Recipe
- Sweeten to taste. Start with the recommended amount of simple syrup and then adjust to your taste preference as desired. For a tarter mojito flavor, use less syrup, and for a sweeter version, use more.
- Lightly muddle the mint. Gently press on the mint leaves with the muddler so they release the essential oils and flavor without tearing them into smaller pieces. Ripping the leaves will create undesirable floaters in your drink.
- Use crushed ice. It chills the cocktail better than cubed ice and adds an essential dilution that helps balance the flavors of the rum and fresh ingredients.
- Add other flavors! Mix up your cocktail by adding a few fresh berries to muddle with the mint, or replace the simple syrup with a flavored syrup like ginger or passion fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Preparing a pitcher of mojitos ahead can save you time when hosting gatherings. To make a big batch in advance, multiply this recipe by the number of needed servings. Prepare the recipe as outlined in a large pitcher but don’t add the ice or club soda until you’re ready to serve so the drink doesn’t lose its fizz or get diluted from the ice.
You can switch up this mint mojito recipe in a few different ways. Try adding cucumber chunks when you muddle the mint leaves and simple syrup for an even more refreshing-tasting cocktail. Or make it fruity by muddling your favorite fruit like pineapple, mango, or berries. Additionally, you can add a dash of bitters or replace the simple syrup with a flavored syrup to add depth to the flavors.
Easily make a non-alcoholic mojito recipe by omitting the rum or using a non-alcoholic rum alternative. Making it without rum is a great option to serve kids a fun drink at group gatherings; the non-alcoholic rum alternative is more suitable for adults. If omitting the rum, add more club soda. You can also add more simple syrup to up the sweetness.
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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
- Sweeten to taste. Start with the recommended amount of simple syrup and then adjust to your taste preference as desired. For a tarter mojito flavor, use less syrup, and for a sweeter version, use more.
- Lightly muddle the mint. Gently press on the mint leaves with the muddler so they release the essential oils and flavor without tearing them into smaller pieces. Ripping the leaves will create undesirable floaters in your drink.
- Use crushed ice. It chills the cocktail better than cubed ice and adds an essential dilution that helps balance the flavors of the rum and fresh ingredients.
- Add other flavors! Mix up your cocktail by adding a few fresh berries to muddle with the mint, or replace the simple syrup with a flavored syrup like ginger or passion fruit.
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