A mojito sparkles with fresh mint, lime, and rum – a drink that brings Cuban beach vibes to any setting.
This classic cocktail combines white rum, fresh mint leaves, lime juice, simple syrup, and club soda to create a refreshing mix that’s perfect for warm days.
The mint mojito has a rich history dating back to the 1500s when Cuban farmers mixed rum with sugar cane juice and mint. The drink gained worldwide fame after Ernest Hemingway enjoyed them at La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana.
Making this drink at home takes just 5 minutes and basic ingredients. The fresh taste and easy steps make it a top choice for parties, backyard gatherings, or a relaxing evening drink.
Mojito With Mint Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.75 oz simple syrup
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves
- Club soda
- Ice cubes
- 1 lime wheel for garnish
- 1 mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Add mint leaves to a Collins glass.
- Press gently with a muddler to release oils without tearing the leaves.
- Pour in the simple syrup and lime juice.
- Then, fill the glass 2/3 full with ice cubes.
- Add white rum and stir with a bar spoon for 10-15 seconds to combine ingredients.
- Top with club soda and gently stir once more.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh mint sprig.
Notes
Tasting Notes
A well-made mojito delivers a bright and refreshing mix of flavors. The lime juice provides a tangy citrus base that wakes up the taste buds.
Fresh mint adds a cool, garden-fresh taste that lingers pleasantly.
The sweetness from the simple syrup balances the tart lime perfectly.
White rum brings warmth and subtle vanilla notes without overpowering the other ingredients.
The splash of club soda creates a light effervescence that dances on the tongue.
Key Flavor Components:
- Bright citrus from fresh lime
- Cool mint aromatics
- Sweet sugar notes
- Clean rum warmth
- Crisp carbonation
The drink starts crisp and ends smooth, with mint and lime flavors that stay on the palate. Each sip reveals layers of flavor – first citrus, then mint, followed by rum and sugar.
When served ice-cold, the mojito tastes clean and pure. The crushed ice slowly melts to create the perfect dilution as you drink.
Substitute
No mint? Don’t worry. You can make a tasty mojito with other fresh herbs instead. Here are some top alternatives to mint leaves:
- Basil leaves: Sweet and aromatic
- Thyme sprigs: Light and herbaceous
- Sage leaves: Earthy and fragrant
- Rosemary sprigs: Pine-like and refreshing
You can swap regular white rum for dark rum or spiced rum. These options add deeper flavors to the drink.
Simple syrup has many substitutes too. Mix the mojito with:
- Agave nectar
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Stevia
Club soda works best, but other fizzy drinks can work in a pinch. Try these options:
- Sparkling water
- Ginger ale
- Sprite or 7-Up
- Tonic water
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the rum with:
- Extra club soda
- White grape juice
- Apple juice
- Coconut water
