Virgin Mojito

Virgin Mojito

A refreshing, alcohol-free take on the classic Cuban cocktail — bright with fresh mint, zesty lime, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for hot days, brunches, and family gatherings, this mocktail comes together in minutes and can be scaled up into a party pitcher with ease.

2 servings · Prep 10 min · Cook 5 min · Total 15 min

Caribbean · Beverage

Simple Syrup

  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup water

Main

  • 20 piece fresh mint leaves plus extra sprigs for garnish
  • 3 whole limes 2 juiced (about 4 tbsp), 1 sliced into rounds for garnish
  • 3 tbsp simple syrup from above, adjust
  • 1 cup sparkling water or club soda, chilled
  • club soda
  • 1 cup crushed ice
  • 1 pinch fine sea salt brightens the flavors

Garnish

  • 2 piece lime wedges
  • 2 piece fresh mint sprigs

Equipment

  • Stovetop
  • Saucepan
  • Glass (Large)
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Fridge
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Saucepan (5 Quarts)
  • Citrus Juicer

Instructions

  1. Combine ½ cup @[Granulated Sugar] and ½ cup @[Water] in a small #[Saucepan] over ^[medium heat]. Stir until the @[Sugar] fully dissolves, about ~[2–3 minutes]. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. (You'll have extra syrup — store it in the #[Fridge] for up to ~[2 weeks].)
  2. Divide the fresh @[Mint Leaves] evenly between two tall #[Glass (Large)]. Add 1½ tablespoons of @[Simple Syrup] to each glass. Use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently press and twist the @[Mint] — about ~[10 seconds] per glass — until fragrant. Avoid over-muddling, which makes the drink bitter.
  3. Squeeze the juice of 1½ @[Limes] (about 2 tablespoons) into each glass. Add a pinch of @[Fine Sea Salt] if using. Fill each glass generously with @[Crushed Ice], then pour ½ cup of chilled @[Sparkling Water] or @[Club Soda] over the top. Stir gently with a long spoon to combine without losing too much carbonation.
  4. Garnish each glass with a fresh @[Mint Sprig] (slap it between your palms first to release its aroma) and a @[Lime] wedge or round on the rim. Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.