Mojito (mocktail Or Cocktail) Recipe

Measure and prepare

Juice fresh limes to yield 1 oz (about one medium lime). If making cocktail, measure 2 oz light rum. Measure simple syrup and club soda. Pluck 10 fresh mint leaves from stems; reserve one sprig for garnish. Cut 2 lime wedges and one extra wheel or wedge for garnish. Prepare crushed ice (about 1 cup).

Combine mint, lime and syrup

In a sturdy Collins glass or mixing glass, add the 10 fresh mint leaves, the 2 lime wedges and 0.75 oz simple syrup. Using a muddler or the end of a wooden spoon, gently press and twist the mint and lime together 6–8 times. The goal is to release the mint oils and lime juices without shredding the leaves into tiny bits. If leaves tear, that's fine but avoid over-muddling.

Add lime juice and rum (optional)

Add the 1 oz fresh lime juice to the glass. If making a cocktail, add 2 oz light rum now. Stir gently 4–6 times to combine and dissolve remaining syrup into the citrus.

Add ice and club soda

Fill the glass with about 1 cup of crushed ice (or to near the top). Top with approximately 3 oz of club soda. Gently lift and fold the mixture with a bar spoon or stirring spoon 2–3 times to integrate soda without flattening the bubbles.

Taste and adjust: if you prefer sweeter, add up to 0.25 oz more simple syrup; for more tartness, add a small squeeze of lime. Slap the reserved mint sprig between your palms once (to release aroma) and place it on top as garnish along with the lime wheel or wedge. Serve immediately with a straw.