PREP TIME 5 min
Everyone should know how to make a virgin Mojito. This not-too-sweet fizzy cocktail is minty fresh and super refreshing. Pouring a mocktail Mojito isn’t a vibe killer – it’s more likely you’ll see raised eyebrows for being so on-trend! Make a good one like this recipe and no one will miss the rum!
Add mint leaves to a jug or mason jar with the sugar syrup and freshly squeezed lime juice
Muddle them briefly until fragrant and tip into a highball glass with a handful of ice
Stir briefly to chill and top up with soda water or ginger ale. Garnish with a slice of lime
This tasty drink has a gentle fizz and is jam-packed with lime and mint, making it a perfect digestif for after a meal. Fun fact – mint and lime are known to ease digestion! Since it’s so refreshing, our Mojito mocktail recipe pairs well with long hot summer days when you need something extra chilled. Easy mocktails are perfect for family gatherings as everyone can get involved, so make our Mojito mocktail recipe in bulk and serve it in a drinks dispenser for effortless entertaining.
Learn how to Make a Virgin Mojito like a pro with our insider tips:
Our Mojito mocktail recipe is super easy to make, it pretty much calls for the same ingredients as our classic Mojito but without the rum. The main difference you’ll see is our Virgin Mojito ingredients swaps out sugar for a sugar syrup. Follow our easy recipe, or use a store-bought simple syrup for this top mocktail hack. It gives our Mojito mocktail recipe the thick viscosity that mimics rum. Then all your need is fresh mint and limes, some ice and soda water or ginger ale to top up.
The Virgin Mojito, like its rum-based counterpart, traces its roots back to Cuba. The original Mojito is believed to have evolved from a drink called “El Draque,” named after Sir Francis Drake, the English sea captain. While the traditional Mojito uses rum, the Virgin Mojito is a modern twist that caters to the growing demand for non-alcoholic options without sacrificing that same iconic flavour profile. Whether you’re avoiding alcohol or just looking for a lighter beverage option, the Virgin Mojito has become a popular choice around the world, particularly in warm climates.
Muddling the mint leaves is a crucial step for unlocking the drink’s characteristic flavour. However, it’s important not to overdo it! A gentle press is all you need. Over-muddling can release bitterness from the mint, which may overpower the drink. When using a muddler (or improvising with a wooden spoon), give the mint a few light presses to release its aromatic oils without tearing the leaves apart. This is a key technique for achieving the perfect balance in your Virgin Mojito.
Learn more: The Ultimate Guide to Herbs for Cocktails
If you’re looking to experiment with your Virgin Mojito, soda water isn’t your only option. Ginger beer (a non-alcoholic one) or tonic water can both make excellent substitutes, each adding its own unique twist to the drink. Ginger beer gives your Mojito a subtle spicy kick, while tonic water adds a slightly bitter bite. These variations can elevate the drink, especially when you’re pairing it with meals like grilled seafood or spicy dishes.
The Virgin Mojito’s minty, tangy flavour makes it a versatile drink when it comes to food pairings. It’s a great palate cleanser, so it pairs well with rich or spicy foods. Consider pairing your Virgin Mojito with:
Read next: 35 BBQ Cocktail & Food Pairings for Summer
If you’re in the mood to explore other non-alcoholic cocktails, here are a few more favourites that share the same bright and vibrant flavours as a Virgin Mojito:
