How to Make Classic Mojito

Mojito is one of the top 5 most-ordered cocktails in the world. There’s something timeless about its combo of mint, lime, and fizzy refreshment that never fails to hit the spot. This Classic Mojito Recipe is light, refreshing, and ridiculously easy to make at home. And we’re not talking about a muddled mess—thanks to our Zulay Kitchen 24-Piece Bartending Set, you’ll feel like a mixologist without leaving your kitchen. So, grab your mint leaves, and let’s stir up some memories—and cocktails.

How to Make Classic Mojito

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 1 mojito

Ingredients

• • 3 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
  • 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1/2 ounce (1 tablespoon) maple syrup or simple syrup
  • 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) white rum
  • 4 ounces (1/2 cup) soda water
  • Ice 

Instructions

Step 1: Muddle the Mint

Using the cocktail muddler from your Zulay complete bartender kit, gently press 3 mint leaves into the shaker to release their oils. Don’t pulverize—just a light press will do the trick.

Step 2: Add Lime Juice and Sweetener

Pour in 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice and 1/2 ounce of maple syrup or simple syrup. Use a jigger for exact measurements. Stir gently.

Step 3: Add Rum and Shake

Add 2 ounces of white rum into the shaker. Then, using ice made with your ice ball mold, toss a few cubes in and shake until cold—about 15 seconds.

Step 4: Strain into a Glass

Fill a glass with more ice (again, the slow-melting kind from the ice mold is best). Strain the mixture over the ice using a cocktail strainer.

Step 5: Top with Soda Water

Add 4 ounces of soda water for that signature mojito fizz.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with a few extra mint leaves and a lime wedge if you’re feeling fancy. Cheers!

Tips, Variations & Flavor Upgrades

• Make it a Pitcher. Hosting friends? Multiply the recipe by 4 or 6 and serve in a pitcher. Muddle your mint and mix everything but the soda water, then top each glass individually for maximum fizz.
• Try a Strawberry Mojito by muddling in a couple of chopped strawberries. Or go tropical with pineapple juice instead of soda water.
• Swap in vodka for a different base or go zero-proof with club soda and a splash of apple juice or coconut water.
• Don’t Skip the Mint. It’s the heart of a mojito. Use fresh mint (never dried), and don’t over-muddle or it’ll taste bitter.

Make Your Own Classic Mojito Today!

If there’s one drink that instantly cools you down, wakes up your taste buds, and feels fancy without the fuss—it’s the mojito. This Classic Mojito Recipe doesn’t mess around with trends or shortcuts. It’s minty, limey, fizzy perfection made simple.

And hey, if you feel like going wild, toss in some mango or basil or even jalapeño. But you don’t have to. This mojito is good—like, “forget I even had other drink options”—all on its own. Now go shake it up, pour yourself something refreshing, and raise a glass to life’s simple pleasures. Cheers!

Frequently Asked Questions About This Mojito Recipe

Can I make a mojito without alcohol?

Absolutely! Just skip the rum and substitute with extra soda water, coconut water, or even kombucha for a fizzy non-alcoholic version. It still delivers that mint-lime freshness without the buzz. Some folks add a splash of ginger ale or tonic to give it more depth.

What kind of rum is best for mojitos?

White rum is traditionally used in mojitos because it has a clean, crisp flavor that doesn’t overpower the mint and lime. Brands like Bacardi or Havana Club work great. Avoid dark or spiced rums as they can throw off the fresh, citrusy balance. However, if you're feeling adventurous, a coconut-infused white rum can give it a tropical flair.

How do I avoid bitter mint in my mojito?

The key is to gently muddle the mint, not mash it. Use a muddler to lightly press the mint leaves. Crushing the mint too hard releases bitter compounds from the stems and veins. You want to release the oils without turning them into paste. Think press and twist—gently.

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

You can, but fresh is way better. Bottled lime juice often has preservatives that dull the flavor and make the drink taste flat. Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness and acidity that makes mojitos pop. Plus, if you have a citrus juicer, squeezing fresh limes is fast and effortless.

What’s the best way to sweeten a mojito?

Traditional mojitos use simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water), but you can use maple syrup, honey, agave, or even monk fruit syrup for a low-sugar option. Just make sure whatever sweetener you use is liquid so it blends well. 

Can I batch mojitos for a party?

Definitely! Muddle mint, lime juice, sweetener, and rum in a pitcher ahead of time. Refrigerate until ready to serve. When your guests arrive, pour the base mix over ice and top with soda water. 

What glass should I use for mojitos?

A highball or Collins glass is ideal—something tall enough to hold all that fizzy goodness plus ice. But really, use whatever you’ve got! The most important part is making sure it’s filled with quality ingredients and chilled properly.