Cool off with this refreshing Mojito Mocktail recipe—zero alcohol, all the flavor. Fresh mint, zesty lime, and bubbly soda combine for the perfect summer sip.
What is a Mojito?
A mojito is a classic Cuban drink known for its bright, refreshing blend of mint, lime, sugar, rum, and soda water. This version removes the alcohol so everyone can enjoy the same lively flavors: citrus from fresh limes, herbal brightness from mint, a touch of sweetness, and sparkling fizz for a lively finish. It’s light, thirst-quenching, and ideal for warm afternoons or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You Need
Lemon-lime soda — any brand you prefer; Sprite works well for a classic taste.
Crystal Light lemonade mix — adds a pleasant tartness and light sweetness.
Water — used to dissolve the lemonade mix.
Limes — fresh limes provide the essential citrus brightness.
Fresh mint — the herb that defines the mojito flavor.
How to Make a Mojito Mocktail
This easy recipe makes a batch that serves about 4 people. The steps are quick and forgiving, so it’s perfect for parties or a simple weekend treat.
- Muddle the mint leaves and lime wedges in a sturdy pitcher. Press gently to release the mint oils and lime juice—don’t pulverize the mint or it can become bitter.
- Mix the lemonade by stirring the Crystal Light packet into 2 cups of cold water until fully dissolved. Add this mixture to the pitcher with the muddled mint and limes.
- Add lemon-lime soda (about 4 cups) and stir gently to combine, preserving as much fizz as possible.
- Serve by filling glasses with ice, pouring the mocktail over the ice, and garnishing with extra mint sprigs and lime wedges.
Boozy Option
If you’d like an alcoholic version for adults, a splash of white rum is the traditional choice. Vodka is another option for a cleaner, subtler spirit that won’t overpower the mint and lime.
Tips for the Best Mojito Mocktail
Make ahead: You can muddle the mint and limes and mix the lemonade base a few hours ahead, but add the lemon-lime soda right before serving so the drink stays fizzy.
Use plenty of mint and lime: It will seem like a lot, but robust amounts of both are what give a mojito its signature brightness.
Gentle muddling: Press to release oils and juice without shredding the mint leaves to avoid bitterness.
Mojito Mocktail
Equipment
- 1 drink pitcher (sturdy)
Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 2 medium limes, cut into quarters, plus extra for garnish
- 2 cups water
- 1 (0.14 ounce) packet Crystal Light lemonade
- 4 cups lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite)
Instructions
- Place the mint leaves and quartered limes in a pitcher. Use the end of a long spoon or a muddler to press gently, releasing oils and juice.
- Stir the Crystal Light lemonade packet into 2 cups of cold water until dissolved. Pour this mixture into the pitcher with the muddled mint and limes.
- If serving immediately, pour in 4 cups lemon-lime soda and stir gently. Fill 4 glasses with ice, pour the mocktail over the ice, and garnish with extra mint and a lime wedge.
Notes
Try other flavors and garnishes: Add cucumber slices, berries, or swap tonic water or ginger beer for a different fizz and flavor profile.
Nutritional facts are estimates. One serving is roughly 1 ½ cups.
Nutrition
Calories: 127 kcal | Carbohydrates: 32 g | Protein: 0.2 g | Fat: 0.1 g | Sodium: 34 mg | Potassium: 14 mg | Fiber: 0.03 g | Sugar: 32 g | Vitamin A: 1 IU | Vitamin C: 3 mg | Calcium: 10 mg | Iron: 0.1 mg
Variations and Serving Ideas
To switch things up, try muddling a few berries along with the mint for a fruity twist, or add thin cucumber slices for a cooling effect. For a slightly more complex flavor, use sparkling water mixed with a splash of natural fruit juice instead of full-strength soda. Serve in tall glasses over crushed ice for a more tropical presentation.
Storage and Make-Ahead
You can prepare the mint-and-lime base and the lemonade mixture up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Add the lemon-lime soda just before serving to keep the drink fizzy. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a day, but expect some loss of carbonation and brightness.
Want More Refreshing Drink Ideas?
If you enjoyed this Mojito Mocktail, try other cool beverages like Southern Sweet Tea, Strawberry Lemonade, Blueberry Lavender Lemonade, or a non-alcoholic Ruby Red Refresher for a citrusy alternative. Each is simple, refreshing, and perfect for summer entertaining.