The Mojito is a Cuban classic made with white rum, lime, mint, and soda water combine for a cocktail that’s crisp, refreshing, and perfect for summer hangouts or backyard parties.

About This Mojito

The Mojito dates back to Havana, where rum was plentiful and mint grew fresh and wild. On Long Island, we’ve served these for casual beach gatherings, nothing cools off a hot day faster. Sweet, tart, and herbal all at once, it’s no wonder this cocktail has become a global favorite.

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Ingredients

  • 10 fresh mint leaves
  • 1/2 lime, cut into 4 wedges
  • 2 teaspoons white sugar
  • 1.5 oz white rum
  • 1/2 cup club soda
  • Ice cubes
  • Garnish: lime wedge, fresh mint sprig

Steps

  1. Muddle: In a sturdy glass, muddle mint leaves with one lime wedge to release oils and juice.
  2. Add sugar + lime: Add two lime wedges and sugar; muddle again to combine flavors.
  3. Add ice + rum: Fill glass with ice and pour in rum.
  4. Top with soda: Add chilled club soda, leaving room at the top.
  5. Stir + garnish: Gently stir; garnish with lime wedge and mint sprig.

Bar Tips

  • Use superfine sugar so it dissolves more easily.
  • Clap mint leaves in your hands before garnishing to release aroma.
  • For parties, pre-mix lime juice + sugar syrup and keep chilled.

Flavor Pairings

  • Pairs with: seafood, grilled chicken, and spicy Latin dishes.
  • Try variations with passionfruit, cucumber, or berries.

Party Batch (8 drinks)

  • 2 cups (16 oz) white rum
  • 1 cup fresh lime juice
  • 3/4 cup sugar syrup
  • 40 fresh mint leaves
  • Club soda to top (~1 liter)

Muddle mint + lime juice + syrup in a pitcher, add rum, and chill. Pour over ice and top with soda just before serving.

When to Serve

Mojitos are perfect for BBQs, summer weddings, and rooftop parties. They’re light enough to sip all afternoon but festive enough for special occasions.

See our Summer roundup: Summer Cocktail Recipes.

Browse All Cocktails: Cocktail Recipes.

Can I use brown sugar instead of white?

Yes while not recommended it does add a deeper, molasses-like flavor. For a lighter, traditional mojito stick with white sugar.

What’s the best rum for a mojito?

Cuban-style rums like Bacardí or Havana Club are authentic, but any clean, light rum works well.