How to Make a Mojito
Published Date: December 1, 2025
Few cocktails capture the essence of refreshment like the classic Mojito. With its bright lime flavor, cool mint aroma, and perfect balance of sweetness and fizz, the Mojito has become a staple in warm-weather gatherings, beach bars, and craft-cocktail menus worldwide. Whether you’re hosting friends, relaxing poolside, or brushing up on your home-bartending skills, learning how to make a Mojito is both simple and rewarding.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything—from the drink’s Cuban roots to the best ingredients, techniques, variations, and common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you’ll be making Mojitos like a pro.
A Brief History of the Mojito
The Mojito traces its origins back to 16th-century Cuba, making it one of the oldest classic cocktails still enjoyed today. While its exact beginnings are debated, many believe it evolved from a drink called El Draque, named after Sir Francis Drake. Over time, locals refined the recipe, introducing rum, sugarcane, fresh lime, and mint—creating the Mojito as we know it.
Learn more about the Mojito’s history here.
What You Need to Make the Perfect Mojito
Making a great Mojito comes down to fresh ingredients and proper technique. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
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2 oz white rum (e.g., Bacardí Superior)
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1 oz fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
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2 teaspoons white sugar or simple syrup
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6–8 fresh mint leaves
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Club soda or sparkling water
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Ice (crushed or cubed)
Recommended Tools
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A sturdy muddler
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Highball glass
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Bar spoon
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Citrus press (optional but helpful)
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Mojito
1. Muddle the Mint and Sugar
Place your mint leaves and sugar in a highball glass.
Use a muddler to gently press the mint—not smash it. This releases the aromatic oils without creating bitterness.
Tip: If using simple syrup, add mint and syrup together before muddling.
2. Add Lime Juice
Squeeze in fresh lime juice for the best flavor. Bottled lime juice often tastes dull or overly acidic.
3. Pour in the Rum
White rum is traditional because of its light, clean flavor. Add 2 ounces for the perfect balance.
For help choosing the right Rum for your Mojito, see 5 Tips for Picking the Best Rum for your Cocktail.
4. Add Ice
Fill the glass with crushed ice. This chills the drink faster and helps blend flavors more evenly.
5. Top with Club Soda
Pour a splash of club soda to give the Mojito its iconic fizz.
Gently stir with a bar spoon to combine.
6. Garnish and Serve
Add a sprig of mint and a lime wheel or wedge for presentation.
Your refreshing, Cuban-style Mojito is ready!
Common Mojito Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Using wilted mint
Always use fresh, bright green mint leaves.
Over-muddling the mint
Press gently—don’t shred the leaves or the drink becomes bitter.
Using dark rum
Save dark rum for sipping; white rum keeps flavors crisp.
Skipping the fresh lime
Fresh lime juice is essential for authentic Mojito flavor.
Mojito Variations You’ll Love
Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, try experimenting:
Strawberry Mojito
Add muddled strawberries for a fruity twist.
For recipe inspiration, check out this Strawberry Mojito Recipe.
Basil Mojito
Substitute or complement mint with basil for a herbal depth.
Blueberry Mojito
Blend blueberries with lime and mint for vibrant color and flavor.
Mango Mojito
Tropical and sweet—perfect for summer BBQs and beach days.
Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Mojitos
Mojitos pair wonderfully with Cuban and Latin dishes such as:
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Cuban sandwiches
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Fresh ceviche
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Grilled seafood
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Tostones
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Shrimp tacos
For more pairing inspiration, check out Cocktail and Food Pairings.
Make Mojitos for Your Next Gathering
Whether you’re throwing a rooftop party, hosting a backyard BBQ, or simply craving a refreshing cocktail at home, knowing how to make a Mojito is a skill worth mastering. With fresh ingredients and the right technique, this iconic Cuban drink becomes easy—and irresistibly good.
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