There’s something magical about the first sip of a fresh mojito — that icy cool mint, zesty lime, the smooth kick of rum, and just the right amount of fizz. It’s like a vacation in a glass. The Cuban Mojito isn’t just any cocktail; it’s a timeless classic, loved for its bright, refreshing flavors and simplicity.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a summer BBQ, or just looking to unwind after a long day, this mojito recipe will become your new go-to. Let’s walk you through exactly how to make it from scratch — step-by-step, no bartending experience needed!
🛒 Ingredients: Your Shopping List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make 1 tall glass of a traditional Cuban mojito:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 10 fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 lime, cut into 4 wedges
- 2 teaspoons white granulated sugar
- Ice cubes (enough to fill the glass)
Liquids:
- 1.5 ounces (45 ml) white rum – I recommend Havana Club Añejo 3 Años or Bacardi Superior
- Club soda (soda water) – about 1/2 cup (or to top off)
💡 Optional: Add a splash of simple syrup for a sweeter twist.
👣 Preparation Steps: Step-by-Step, the Easy Way
Alright, let’s break this down Barney style (step-by-step, super simple):
Step 1: Muddle the Lime & Mint
In a sturdy glass (like a highball), add:
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- 2 lime wedges
- 2 teaspoons of sugar
Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently press the mint and lime. You’re not trying to pulverize them — just release the mint oils and lime juice.
✅ Pro Tip: Don’t over-muddle the mint or it’ll taste bitter.
Step 2: Add More Lime
Toss in the remaining 2 lime wedges and muddle again just enough to get all that zesty juice flowing.
Step 3: Ice It Up
Fill the glass almost to the top with ice cubes. Crushed ice works too and chills it faster.
Step 4: Pour in the Rum
Add your 1.5 oz of white rum right over the ice.
Step 5: Top with Club Soda
Pour club soda until it nearly reaches the rim of the glass. Stir gently with a spoon or straw to mix the flavors.
🔥 There’s No Cooking — Just Mixing!
Unlike many other recipes, mojitos require no cooking or baking. It’s all about balance, freshness, and timing.
But here’s the secret to a perfect mojito:
- Fresh mint, not dried.
- Use real lime juice, not bottled.
- Don’t skip muddling — that’s where the flavor lives.
🍹 Serving Suggestions: Make It Look as Good as It Tastes
Presentation matters, especially when serving guests. Here’s how to serve your mojito like a pro:
Garnish:
- A sprig of fresh mint
- A lime wheel or wedge on the rim
- Serve with a colorful straw
Bonus Touch:
If you’re feeling extra fancy, rim the glass with sugar before making the drink!
🧊 Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.
🌟 Tips, Tweaks, and Variations
Want to take your mojito game to the next level? Try these:
- No Alcohol? Skip the rum and make a virgin mojito (just as delicious).
- Make it Fruity: Add muddled strawberries, blueberries, mango, or watermelon for a fruity twist.
- Herbal Boost: Add a few basil leaves for a slightly savory note.
- Less Sugar? Use honey, agave, or sugar substitute like stevia.
🍸 Hosting a party? You can scale this recipe easily and make a mojito pitcher in advance.
🧠 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~160 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10-12g |
| Sugars | ~10g |
| Alcohol Content | ~14g (1.5 oz rum) |
| Fat | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Sodium | 10mg |
⚠️ Alcohol content varies by brand. Drink responsibly!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lime juice is always best. Bottled lime juice has preservatives and lacks that zesty, fresh flavor.
Q2: What’s the best rum for a mojito?
Stick to white rum — Bacardi or Havana Club are great choices. Dark rums change the flavor.
Q3: How can I batch make mojitos for a party?
Multiply all ingredients by the number of servings, muddle mint/lime/sugar in a pitcher, then add rum and ice. Stir and top with soda right before serving.
Q4: Can I make a mojito ahead of time?
You can muddle the mint, lime, and sugar in advance, but wait to add ice, rum, and soda until just before serving.
Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Rum and all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
🎉 Wrap-Up: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Mojito
The Cuban mojito is more than just a drink — it’s a refreshing experience. It’s simple, clean, and absolutely satisfying on a warm day. Once you get the hang of making it at home, you’ll never settle for a watered-down version again.
Fun Fact:
The mojito is said to have originated in 16th-century Havana, and it was even a favorite of Ernest Hemingway. Now that’s some cocktail history!
