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Mojito Recipe: The Authentic Cuban Cocktail

The mojito is a classic born in Cuba—evolving from a 16th-century sailor’s remedy and refined into the light, minty cocktail popularized in Havana and by writers like Hemingway. What makes an authentic mojito great is balance: fresh lime juice, bright light rum, a touch of sugar, crushed ice, soda water and plenty of gently muddled mint so the oils shine without bitterness. For home bartenders, a practical tip is to muddle lightly—press the mint to bruise the leaves rather than shredding them—and use simple syrup for even sweetness. If you’re in Buffalo, stop by Buffalo House Liquor and Wines for recommended rums and fresh herbs to get started.

Prep5 min
Servings1 cocktail
GlassHighball or Collins glass
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

2 oz White rum
Âľ 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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