Recipe
Few cocktails capture the essence of summer quite like a homemade mojito—it’s crisp, invigorating, and bursting with bright flavors that instantly transport you to a sunny beachside cabana. What sets this recipe apart? Fresh mint and lime juice are the stars here, creating a vibrant base that’s perfectly balanced with just the right touch of sweetness from sugar and the subtle kick of white rum.
Add in the fizzy lift of sparkling soda water, and you’ve got a drink that’s as lively as it’s satisfying. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, this mojito is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered it at a bar. Let’s jump in and make something extraordinary!
Ingredients
A classic Mojito is all about fresh, vibrant flavors, and the ingredients you choose can make or break this iconic cocktail. While there’s room for creativity, a few key elements are non-negotiable for that perfect balance of zesty, sweet, and invigorating. Here’s your ingredient breakdown to craft a Mojito that’ll transport you straight to a tropical paradise.
- Fresh mint leaves: The star of the show—don’t skimp here. Look for bright, fragrant leaves; they’re essential for that signature aroma and flavor. Pro tip: Smack the leaves gently before muddling to release their oils.
- Limes: Freshly squeezed lime juice is a must—no bottled substitutes. The tartness cuts through the sweetness and brings the drink to life. Save a slice for garnish!
- White rum: Opt for a good-quality white rum; it’s the backbone of the cocktail. A smooth, light rum lets the other flavors shine without overpowering them.
- Simple syrup: Easily made at home (equal parts sugar and water), this sweetens the drink evenly. You can adjust the amount to taste or swap in agave syrup for a smoother sweetness.
- Club soda: This adds the effervescence that makes a Mojito so invigorating. Use it chilled for maximum crispness.
- Crushed ice: Smaller ice cubes or crushed ice melt slower and keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
Optional but worthy extras:
- Sugar cane stick: A traditional garnish that adds a touch of authenticity and a hint of sweetness as you sip.
- Extra mint sprig: For a fragrant and Instagram-worthy garnish.
- Dash of bitters: For those who like a slightly more complex flavor profile.
Don’t stress if you’re missing something—creativity is key. No simple syrup? Use granulated sugar (just make sure it’s fully dissolved). No white rum? A light gold rum can work in a pinch. Cheers to a perfectly balanced Mojito!
How to Make the Best Authentic Cuban Mojito Recipe
– Muddle the mint and sugar
Gently press 10-12 fresh mint leaves with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar in a sturdy glass. This releases the mint’s oils without shredding the leaves—over-muddling can make the drink bitter.
– Add lime juice
Squeeze in the juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons) directly over the mint-sugar mixture. The acidity balances the sweetness and helps dissolve the sugar.
– Stir to dissolve sugar
Use a spoon to mix the lime juice and sugar until mostly dissolved. If needed, let it sit for 1-2 minutes—this prevents a gritty texture in your final drink.
– Fill the glass with ice
Pack the glass tightly with crushed or cubed ice to keep the mojito chilled without diluting it too quickly.
Pro tip: Crushed ice blends flavors faster!
– Pour in rum and club soda
Add 2 ounces of white rum, then top with 4-6 ounces of club soda. Stir gently once to combine—over-stirring flattens the bubbles.
– Garnish and serve
Tuck a fresh mint sprig and a lime wedge into the glass for aroma and presentation. Serve immediately while the drink is crisp and effervescent.
Watch out: Avoid using bottled lime juice—it lacks brightness. Fresh lime is key for authenticity!
Flexibility: For a mocktail, skip the rum and add extra club soda or a splash of ginger beer for depth.
Nutrition
The homemade mojito is an invigorating cocktail with a balance of flavors. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
Chef Tips
While making a mojito seems simple, I’ve found a few tricks can elevate it from good to great.
First, gently muddle mint—don’t crush it—to avoid bitterness. Use fresh lime juice, never bottled. Chill your glass beforehand for a crisp finish.
And when adding soda water, pour slowly to preserve the bubbles. Finally, taste and adjust sweetness last—it’s easier than fixing an over-sweetened drink. Cheers!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bottled Lime Juice Instead of Fresh?
I’d recommend fresh lime juice for the best flavor, but I’ve used bottled lime juice in a pinch—it works. Just taste as I go because bottled juice can be more acidic or less fresh.
What’s the Best Rum for a Mojito?
I’d recommend using a light or white rum for a mojito—it’s crisp and lets the mint and lime shine. Something like Bacardi or Havana Club works well, but I’d avoid spiced or dark rums.
How Do I Make a Mojito Without Alcohol?
I skip the rum and use club soda or sparkling water instead. Muddle mint, lime, and sugar like usual, add ice, then top with the soda. It’s just as invigorating without the alcohol—perfect for a mocktail.
Can I Prepare Mojitos in Advance?
I wouldn’t recommend making mojitos too far ahead—the mint turns bitter. If I need to prep, I’ll mix the lime, sugar, and mint, then add soda and ice right before serving to keep it fresh.
How Do I Prevent the Mint From Turning Bitter?
I’ll gently press the mint leaves to release flavor, avoiding over-muddling since it makes them bitter. I’ll also use fresh mint and remove it after muddling to prevent prolonged contact with the drink.
