Classic Mojito with Fresh Mint and Simple Syrup

Prep: 10 min2 servingsmediumCuban
Classic Mojito with Fresh Mint and Simple Syrup

A refreshing rum-based cocktail combining muddled mint and sugar with simple syrup, white rum, and fresh lime juice. Ice and club soda create the signature fizz. Served immediately over ice with lime wedges and mint garnish for a cooling tropical drink.

Ingredients

2 servings
  • 16 mint leaves, fresh
    basil leavesequalherb

    different flavor profile

    Full guide →
  • 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • 1 cup ice
  • 6 ounces simple syrup
    agave syrupequalsweetener

    2

  • 4 ounces white rum
    light rumequalspirit

    comparable base spirit

  • 4 ounces club soda
    sparkling waterequalcarbonated

    minimal difference

  • 2 ounces lime juice, freshly squeezed

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place mint leaves and granulated sugar into a cocktail shaker.

  2. 2

    Gently bruise the mint leaves using a muddler.

  3. 3

    Add ice, simple syrup, rum, club soda, and lime juice to the shaker.

  4. 4

    Gently shake to combine.

  5. 5

    Pour into a cocktail glass over ice without straining.

  6. 6

    Garnish with lime wedges and fresh mint.

  7. 7

    Serve immediately.

Good to Know

Storage

Best consumed immediately; simple syrup can be stored in refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.

Make Ahead

Prepare simple syrup in advance. Prep mint and lime juice up to 2 hours ahead, cover and refrigerate.

Serve With

Serve immediately over ice in a cocktail glass with lime wedges and fresh mint sprig.

Common Mistakes

Watch

Muddle gently to bruise mint without crushing leaves to avoid bitter taste from broken stems.

Watch

Shake gently rather than vigorously to avoid over-aerating and diluting the drink.

Watch

Serve immediately after preparation to avoid loss of carbonation and mint freshness.

Substitutions

club soda
sparkling waterequalcarbonated

minimal difference

Full guide →
white rum
light rumequalspirit

comparable base spirit

simple syrup
agave syrupequalsweetener

2

Full guide →
mint leaves
basil leavesequalherb

different flavor profile

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →