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Mojito Recipe cocktail in glass with garnish

Mojito Recipe: The Authentic Cuban Cocktail

The mojito traces its roots to 16th-century Cuba, evolving from a medicinal drink into the bright, rum-and-mint classic we know today. What sets an authentic mojito apart is balance: fresh lime juice, quality white rum, just enough raw sugar or simple syrup, plenty of gently bruised mint for aroma, and soda to lift it, not drown it. Use fresh, preferably locally bought mint and bottled or fresh lime for best results; avoid over-muddling leaves to prevent bitterness. Practical tip: build the drink in a tall glass, add ice last, and give a light stir so the flavors layer properly. Swing by Buffalo House Liquor and Wines if you need a crisp rum recommendation.

Prep5 min
Servings1 cocktail
GlassHighball or Collins glass
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

2 oz White rum
¾ oz Fresh lime juice
½ oz Simple syrup
8 leaves Fresh mint
3 oz Club soda, chilled

Instructions

  1. Gently muddle mint leaves with simple syrup at the bottom of a highball glass — bruise, don't pulverize.
  2. Add lime juice, then white rum.
  3. Fill the glass with crushed ice.
  4. Top with chilled club soda and stir gently.
  5. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig (slap it first to release the oils) and a lime wedge.
Garnish: Mint sprig and lime wedge
💡 Pro tips: Slap your mint sprigs between your palms before garnishing — this releases the aromatic oils and makes a huge difference. Use crushed ice, not cubes, for the proper texture and dilution. Skip the brown sugar trick — simple syrup mixes more cleanly.

Shop the Bottles for Your Mojito

Pick up everything you need at Buffalo House Liquor & Wines in Tonawanda, NY — same-day delivery across Buffalo, Kenmore, Williamsville, and surrounding areas, or grab them in-store.

White Rum for Mojitos

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Want more cocktail inspiration? Browse our full cocktail recipes collection, or pair this drink with our latest spirits guides. For questions about any bottle, call us at (716) 770-1230.

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