This fresh twist on the classic Cuban mojito brings American flair to the beloved summer drink. The All-American Mojito swaps traditional white rum for bourbon whiskey and adds fresh watermelon for a sweet, patriotic touch.
This refreshing cocktail mixes mint, lime, and bourbon to create a perfect drink for backyard barbecues and Fourth of July celebrations. The bright red watermelon and white sugar crystals against fresh green mint leaves make it look as good as it tastes.
The recipe takes just five minutes to prepare and needs only basic bar tools that most people already have at home. The simple ingredients and quick prep time make it an excellent choice for both new and experienced home bartenders.
All-American Mojito Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Jigger
- Collins glass
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Bar spoon
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.75 oz simple syrup
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves
- Club soda
- Ice cubes
- Mint sprig for garnish
- Lime wheel for garnish
Instructions
- Place mint leaves in a Collins glass.
- Add simple syrup to the glass and muddle gently to release the mint oils.
- Pour in the bourbon and lime juice.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Top with club soda and stir gently with a bar spoon.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and lime wheel.
Notes
Best Tried & Tested Equipment
Product Image | Our Recommended Equipment | Check Offers! |
---|---|---|
![]() | Compact Smoothie Blender | Buy On Amazon |
Top![]() | Glass Cocktail Shaker Set | Buy On Amazon |
![]() | Briout Jigger for Bartending | Buy On Amazon |
![]() | Briout Bar Spoon Cocktail Mixing Stirrers for Drink | Buy On Amazon |
![]() | Winco Stainless Steel 4-Prong Bar Strainer | Buy On Amazon |
![]() | Crystal Whiskey Glasses | Buy On Amazon |
![]() | 13oz Highball Glasses | Buy On Amazon |
![]() | Superb Martini Glasses Drinking Set | Buy On Amazon |
![]() | Italian Red Wine Glasses | Buy On Amazon |
![]() | Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass Set | Buy On Amazon |
Tasting Notes
This All-American Mojito brings a fresh twist to the classic Cuban cocktail. The drink starts with crisp mint aromas mixed with sweet notes of vanilla from American-made rum.
Light citrus flavors blend smoothly with the mint, creating a bright and refreshing taste. The sweetness level stays balanced, never overpowering the other ingredients.
A gentle fizz from the club soda adds a pleasant tingle. The drink feels clean and cool on the palate, perfect for warm weather sipping.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Fresh garden mint
- Sweet vanilla
- Bright lime
- Light bubbles
- Clean finish
The drink’s texture stays smooth and light. Ice dilution helps mellow the rum’s strength while keeping the mint and lime flavors pronounced.
Each sip delivers a cooling sensation from the fresh mint. The finish remains clean with lingering hints of citrus and herbs.
Substitute
A classic mojito needs white rum, but vodka works well as a replacement. The drink will taste different but keeps the fresh mint and lime flavors that make mojitos special.
For a non-alcoholic version, use club soda or sprite instead of rum. Add an extra splash of lime juice to match the bite that rum gives the cocktail.
Alternative spirits to try:
- Silver tequila
- Light gin
- White whiskey
- Coconut rum
Need a mint substitute? Thai basil or regular basil can work. These herbs bring a different but pleasant flavor to the drink.
No simple syrup? Mix equal parts sugar and warm water until dissolved. Regular sugar also works. Just stir extra well to help it dissolve.
Fresh lime juice makes the best mojito. But, bottled lime juice can work in a pinch. Use 1 ounce of bottled juice to replace the juice of one lime.