The Real Mojito is a refreshing Cuban classic made with fresh mint, lime juice, sugar, white rum, and sparkling water. It’s crisp, cool, and just the right balance of sweet and citrusy—perfect for hot days or whenever I’m craving a light cocktail.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how vibrant and fresh this drink tastes. The combination of muddled mint and lime creates a fragrant base that instantly lifts the mood. It’s easy to make with minimal ingredients, and it always feels like a little vacation in a glass.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Fresh mint leaves
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Fresh lime juice
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White sugar
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White rum
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Club soda or sparkling water
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Ice cubes
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Lime slices and mint sprigs (for garnish)
Directions
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I place mint leaves and sugar in a sturdy glass and gently muddle them to release the mint oils.
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I add fresh lime juice and give it a quick stir.
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I pour in the white rum and add ice to fill the glass.
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I top it with club soda or sparkling water and stir gently to mix.
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I garnish with a lime slice and a sprig of mint before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 serving and takes about 5 minutes to prepare.
Variations
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I swap sugar with simple syrup when I want it to dissolve faster.
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For a fruity twist, I muddle in a few raspberries or strawberries.
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I make it non-alcoholic by skipping the rum and adding more soda.
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I use brown sugar for a deeper flavor variation.
Storage/Reheating
This drink is best made and served fresh. I don’t store mojitos, as the mint becomes soggy and the soda goes flat. If I want to prep ahead, I mix the sugar, lime, and rum and add mint and soda right before serving.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice?
I prefer fresh lime juice for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
What’s the best rum for a mojito?
I use a good quality white rum for its light, clean taste that blends well with lime and mint.
Can I make a pitcher of mojito?
Yes, I scale the ingredients and muddle mint in a larger container, then serve over ice in individual glasses.
How do I keep the mint from tasting bitter?
I muddle gently—just enough to release the oils without tearing the mint, which can cause bitterness.
Can I use flavored soda water?
Absolutely. I sometimes use lime or lemon-flavored sparkling water for an extra citrusy kick.
Conclusion
The Real Mojito is my go-to cocktail when I want something simple, bright, and ultra-refreshing. Whether for a party or a quiet evening, it always delivers that fresh, zesty kick I crave.
Print
The Real Mojito
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: Cuban
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Real Mojito is a classic Cuban cocktail made with fresh mint, lime juice, sugar, white rum, and sparkling water. It’s cool, crisp, and perfectly refreshing for hot days or relaxing moments.
Ingredients
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- 2 ounces white rum
- Club soda or sparkling water, to top
- Ice cubes
- Lime slices and mint sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
- Place mint leaves and sugar in a sturdy glass and gently muddle to release the mint oils.
- Add fresh lime juice and stir briefly.
- Pour in white rum and fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Top with club soda or sparkling water and stir gently to mix.
- Garnish with a lime slice and mint sprig before serving.
Notes
- Use simple syrup instead of sugar for easier mixing.
- Add raspberries or strawberries for a fruity twist.
- Make it non-alcoholic by skipping the rum and adding more soda.
- Use brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Mix lime juice, sugar, and rum ahead of time for easy assembly later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
