The Mojito
The Mojito is one of Cuba's most famous cocktails, loved for its refreshing combination of white rum, fresh lime, mint, sugar, and sparkling soda water. Light, crisp, and bursting with fresh citrus and herbs, this classic Mojito recipe is the perfect drink for warm afternoons, summer parties, or anytime you're craving a refreshing rum cocktail. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you'll have a bar-quality Mojito ready in minutes.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
2 oz white rum
1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
½ oz simple syrup (or 2 teaspoons superfine sugar)
8–10 fresh mint leaves
2–3 oz club soda
Pinch of salt (optional)
Crushed ice or ice cubes
Fresh mint sprig, for garnish
1 lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions
1. Muddle the Mint: Add the mint leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup (or superfine sugar) to a highball glass. Gently press the mint with a muddler just enough to release its fragrant oils. Avoid tearing or grinding the leaves, which can create a bitter flavor.
2. Add the rum: Pour in the white rum and add a small pinch of salt if using. Stir briefly until the ingredients are combined and the sugar has fully dissolved.
3. Add the ice: Fill the glass halfway with crushed ice or fresh ice cubes. Stir vigorously for about 10–15 seconds to chill the mixture and evenly distribute the mint and lime flavors.
4. Top with Club Soda: Fill the remainder of the glass with more ice, then slowly pour in the chilled club soda. Stir gently once or twice to combine while preserving the carbonation.
5. Garnish: Garnish with a generous sprig of fresh mint and a lime wheel. Before placing the mint into the glass, gently clap it between your hands to release its aromatic oils.
Enjoy your classic Mojito.
Notes
Choose the Right Rum
A quality white rum creates the clean, crisp flavor that defines a traditional Mojito. Look for a light-bodied rum with subtle notes of sugar cane, citrus, and vanilla. Avoid dark or heavily spiced rums, which can overpower the fresh mint and lime.
Always Use Fresh Mint
Spearmint is the most common choice for homemade Mojitos, while traditional Cuban Mojitos are often made with yerba buena, a milder variety of mint. Whichever you choose, always use fresh, vibrant leaves for the brightest flavor.
Don't Over-Muddle the Mint
The goal is to gently release the mint's essential oils, not shred the leaves. Over-muddling can introduce bitterness and cloud the drink.
Add the Soda Last
Club soda should always be added after the rum, lime, and mint have been mixed. Stir gently to maintain the bubbles that give a Mojito its signature refreshing finish.
Why Clap the Mint?
Gently clapping the mint garnish between your palms activates its essential oils, releasing a fresh herbal aroma that enhances every sip.
Pro Tips
Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest citrus flavor.
Chill the club soda before using it.
Crushed ice creates a colder, more refreshing Mojito, but regular ice cubes also work well.
Add a tiny pinch of salt to subtly enhance the mint and citrus flavors.
Garnish generously with fresh mint for maximum aroma.
Why You'll Love This Classic Mojito Recipe
Light, crisp, and incredibly refreshing
Ready in just 3 minutes
Made with fresh, simple ingredients
Perfect for summer gatherings and outdoor entertaining
A timeless Cuban cocktail that's easy to make at home