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!
How to Make a Virgin Mojito
PREP TIME 5 min
QUICK TIPS
INSTRUCTIONS
01
1.
Add mint leaves to a jug or mason jar with the sugar syrup and freshly squeezed lime juice
02
2.
Muddle them briefly until fragrant and tip into a highball glass with a handful of ice
03
3.
Stir briefly to chill and top up with soda water or ginger ale. Garnish with a slice of lime
What’s in a Virgin Mojito?
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 only other difference is that we swap out sugar for a sugar syrup. Follow our easy recipe or use a store-bought sugar syrup for this top mocktail hack. It gives our Mojito mocktail recipe the thick viscosity that mimics rum.
Then all you need is fresh mint and limes, some ice, and soda water or ginger ale to top up. Choose spearmint over peppermint; it’s easier to muddle. For the limes, pick bright-green plump limes for that tangy tart sweetness a mocktail Mojito needs. Yellow limes are riper and maybe just a little too sweet.
How to make a Virgin Mojito
Let’s get into how to make non-alcoholic Mojitos. While an extravagant cocktail kit isn’t needed to make this drink, a muddler does make things a little easier when crushing the mint leaves with the syrup and lime. For a DIY hack, a rolling pin or wooden spoon will do just fine to release the aromatics if you don’t have a muddler.
When to serve a Virgin Mojito
This tasty drink has a gentle fizz and is jam-packed with lime and mint, making it a perfect digestif 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 it in bulk and serve it in a drinks dispenser for effortless entertaining.
Where did the recipe originate?
Like its rum-based sibling, this alcohol-free beauty 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 non-alcoholic version is a modern twist that caters to the growing demand for zero-proof options without sacrificing that same iconic flavour profile. Whether you’re avoiding alcohol or just looking for a lighter beverage option, this classy clinker has become a popular choice around the world, especially in warm climates.
Should you muddle the mint leaves?
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 can 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 for your mocktail.
Learn more: The Ultimate Guide to Herbs for Cocktails
What can I substitute for the soda water?
If you’re looking to experiment with the recipe, soda water isn’t your only option. Ginger beer (a non-alcoholic one) or tonic water can both make for excellent substitutes, each adding its own unique twist to the drink. Ginger beer gives your Mojito a subtle spice kick, while tonic water adds a slightly bitter bite. These variations can elevate the drink, especially when you pair it with meals like grilled seafood or spicy dishes.
Perfect food pairings for a Virgin Mojito
The drink’s minty, tangy flavour makes it a versatile option when it comes to food pairings. It’s a great palate cleanser, so it pairs well with rich or spicy foods. We’d recommend pairing it with:
- Grilled seafood like prawns or lobster
- Spicy Mexican dishes, like tacos or enchiladas
- Fresh salads with citrus-based dressings
- Mediterranean appetizers like hummus, tzatziki, or stuffed grape leaves
- The bright lime and mint cut through heavier flavors, making it a brilliant accompaniment for bold, rich cuisines.
Read next: 35 BBQ Cocktails & Food Pairings for Summer 2025
More drinks to try if you love a Virgin Mojito
If you’re in the mood to explore other non-alcoholic cocktails, here are a few more favorites that share the same bright and vibrant flavours as this captivating clinker:
- Virgin Martini: A sophisticated and elegant mocktail that keeps things simple and tasty.
- Virgin Strawberry Daiquiri: A fruity favourite that blends strawberries, lime juice, and sugar syrup for a sweet and tangy non-alcoholic delight.
- Shirley Temple: A timeless mocktail made with ginger ale, grenadine, and a splash of fresh lime juice, perfect for those who love a touch of nostalgia in their glass.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Lime, mint, sugar syrup and soda water. You can replace the soda water with a little ginger ale to add more depth of flavour, if you like.
Spearmint is the preferred mint variety because of its mild, sweet flavour and soft texture. Peppermint can be used in a pinch, but it’s more potent and has a sharper taste, which could overshadow the lime.
Absolutely! You can prepare the mint, lime, and sugar syrup mixture in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. Just hold off on adding the soda water or ginger ale until the last minute to preserve the fizz.
