The cranberry mojito is a vibrant and refreshing twist on the classic mojito, combining the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of lime and the cooling essence of fresh mint. Perfect for holiday gatherings, summer parties, or a relaxing evening at home, this cocktail strikes the perfect balance between festive and refreshing. Whether you’re a mojito enthusiast or looking to try something new, the cranberry mojito is sure to impress.
How to Make Cranberry Mojito
Making a cranberry mojito is simple yet satisfying. You’ll muddle fresh mint leaves and lime to release their flavors, mix in cranberry juice and rum, and finish with a splash of soda water. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a cocktail that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- 2 lime wedges
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 oz cranberry juice
- 1 ½ oz white rum
- Soda water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries and mint sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Muddle the mint and lime: In a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker, combine fresh mint leaves, lime wedges, and sugar (or simple syrup). Gently muddle with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the flavors.
- Add the liquids: Pour in the cranberry juice and white rum. Stir or shake gently to mix.
- Assemble the mojito: Fill a serving glass with ice cubes. Strain the cranberry mojito mixture over the ice.
- Top with soda water: Add a splash of soda water to give the cocktail its signature fizz. Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a tall glass with crushed ice for a frosty, tropical feel.
- Rim the glass with sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Pair with appetizers like bruschetta or shrimp cocktail at a party.
- Add edible flowers for a festive and colorful garnish.
- Serve in mason jars for a casual, rustic vibe at outdoor gatherings.
Tips and Variations
- Swap cranberry juice with cranberry syrup for a richer, sweeter flavor.
- Use spiced rum instead of white rum for a warm, holiday-inspired twist.
- Add a splash of orange liqueur or fresh orange juice for added citrus notes.
- Make a non-alcoholic version by omitting rum and increasing the cranberry juice.
- Experiment with flavored sodas, like lime or cranberry sparkling water, to customize the fizz.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Serving size: 1
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugars: 15g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 5mg
Ingredient Substitutes
- Sugar: Replace with honey, agave syrup, or a sugar-free sweetener for a low-calorie version.
- White rum: Use vodka for a different spin or omit for a mocktail.
- Cranberry juice: Substitute with pomegranate juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Lime wedges: Use lemon wedges for a milder citrus flavor.
- Soda water: Swap with tonic water or flavored sparkling water for added variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this mojito in advance?
Yes, prepare the muddled mint, lime, sugar, and cranberry juice mixture ahead of time. Add soda water and ice just before serving.
What type of cranberry juice should I use?
Unsweetened cranberry juice offers a tart flavor, while sweetened juice gives a sweeter profile. Choose based on your preference.
Can I use frozen cranberries for garnish?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work well and can help keep your drink chilled.
What’s the best type of rum for a mojito?
White rum is traditional, but you can experiment with spiced or coconut-flavored rum for unique variations.
How do I make a larger batch for a party?
Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings needed and prepare in a large pitcher. Add soda water and ice just before serving to maintain fizz.
Conclusion
The cranberry mojito is a stunning and flavorful cocktail that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Its blend of sweet, tart, and refreshing flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s as delightful to sip as it is to serve. With simple ingredients and endless variations, this cocktail is sure to become a favorite. Try it out for your next gathering or a relaxing evening, and enjoy the perfect mix of festivity and refreshment.
Cranberry Mojito Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
Muddle the mint and lime
In a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker, combine fresh mint leaves, lime wedges, and sugar (or simple syrup). Gently muddle with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the flavors.
Add liquids
Pour in the cranberry juice and white rum. Stir or shake gently to mix.
Assemble the mojito
Fill a serving glass with ice cubes. Strain the cranberry mojito mixture over the ice.
Top with soda water
Add a splash of soda water to give the cocktail its signature fizz. Stir gently to combine.
Garnish and serve
Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint. Serve immediately and enjoy!
