Mojito

The ultimate cocktail for when you’re lounging by the pool, on a beach towel with your bestie, or just trying to bring vacation energy to your backyard. This Mojito is the kind of cocktail that tastes like summer’s officially here.

It’s light, citrusy, and just sweet enough, with a good hit of mint to keep things cool. And yes, smacking the mint is part of the process. You’ll never skip that step again.

I’m including riffs for a Spicy Mojito and a few others with fruity twists!

Mojitos are iconic for a reason. They’re crisp, fizzy, and refreshing, but this version dials up the flavor with demerara syrup for a little extra depth and richness. If you don’t have it, don’t worry! Just use some Agave syrup instead. Combined with white rum, fresh lime juice, and a handful of mint, it’s the perfect “let’s make two” kind of drink.

And because it’s topped with club soda, it’s easy to sip all afternoon without getting knocked out by booze in the sun.

How to Make Rich Demerara Syrup

Making a rich demerara syrup is just as easy as making basic simple syrup, with two tiny changes. swap out granulated sugar for demerara sugar and do a 2:1 ration of sugar: water.

In a saucepan over medium heat, add one part water and two parts demerara sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Take off the heat and let cool completely. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. That’s it!

Ingredient Notes

• White rum – Clean and crisp. Use something light-bodied for a classic mojito profile.
• Mint – Fresh spearmint is ideal. Don’t muddle too hard; bruising makes it bitter.
• Lime juice – Freshly squeezed for brightness.
• Club soda – Keeps it light and bubbly. Add just before serving for max fizz.

Spicy Mojito

Making a Spicy Mojito is just as easy as making one simple swap. Instead of using regular simple syrup, make a spicy simple syrup with jalapeños. You can garnish with jalapeños as well!

Fruity Mojitos

Fresh mint can hold its own, but it also pairs beautifully with so many other fruits, especially citrus!

Grapefruit Mojito: Just add fresh grapefruit juice to the classic mojito recipe.

Coconut Guava Mojito: Add guava juice and swap the regular simple syrup for coconut syrup.

When to Serve a Mojito

This is a cocktail that begs to be sipped in the sunshine. Serve it at:

• Poolside hangs
• Beach picnics
• Barbecues and patio dinners
• Any afternoon where the vibe is “relaxed and sparkling”