Refreshing and bright, this Kiwi Mint Smash brings a tropical twist to classic cocktails. The sweet-tart kiwi pairs with cool mint and a splash of lime for a drink that stands out at any gathering.
The simple recipe needs just five minutes to create. You’ll need kiwi, fresh mint, lime juice, simple syrup, and your choice of rum or vodka.
The drink’s green color comes from muddled kiwi and mint leaves, making it eye-catching in a tall glass.
Ice-cold and perfect for warm days, this cocktail works great for backyard parties or casual meet-ups with friends.
The recipe makes enough for two servings and can be doubled or tripled for larger groups. For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, leaving out the spirits creates an equally tasty mocktail version.
Kiwi Mint Smash Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Jigger
- Cocktail glass
- Ice
Ingredients
- 2 ripe kiwis peeled and quartered
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Club soda
- Ice cubes
- Mint sprig and kiwi slice for garnish
Instructions
- Add kiwi pieces and mint leaves to the cocktail shaker.
- Using the muddler, press down and twist to crush the kiwis and release the mint oils.
- Pour in vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake for 15-20 seconds.
- Double strain into an ice-filled glass to remove kiwi pulp.
- Top with a splash of club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and kiwi slice.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Kiwi Mint Smash tastes bright and fresh with a perfect mix of sweet and tart flavors. The natural sweetness of kiwi pairs well with the crisp coolness of mint.
Fresh kiwi adds a tangy tropical taste that gives this drink its unique character. The fruit brings subtle notes of strawberry and pineapple.
The mint creates a refreshing feeling and adds a clean, garden-fresh taste. Its aroma enhances the drinking experience.
A touch of lime juice balances the sweetness and adds a zesty citrus note. The combination creates a light and energizing flavor profile.
The texture is smooth with tiny bits of muddled kiwi and mint leaves. These small pieces add visual appeal and burst with flavor when sipped.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Sweet tropical kiwi
- Cool garden mint
- Bright citrus
- Light and refreshing
- Smooth texture
This cocktail tastes best served cold over ice. The flavors become more pronounced as the drink chills.
Substitute
The Kiwi Mint Smash can be made with different ingredients when the original items are not available. People can swap out kiwi for other fruits that blend well.
Fresh strawberries or peaches make great replacements for kiwi. These fruits create a similar sweet and tangy taste in the drink.
No mint? Try basil leaves instead. Basil adds a fresh, green taste that works nicely with fruit.
For the alcohol base, vodka or white rum can replace gin. Both spirits mix well with fruit and herbs.
Non-alcoholic version: Skip the gin and use club soda or sprite instead. Add an extra kiwi to boost the fruit flavor.
Quick substitution guide:
- Kiwi → strawberries or peaches
- Fresh mint → basil leaves
- Gin → vodka or white rum
- Simple syrup → honey or agave nectar
- Lime juice → lemon juice
The drink stays fresh and tasty with any of these swaps. Each change creates a new twist on the recipe while keeping the basic idea intact.