A Virgin Mojito is the ultimate refresher. With its vibrant combination of lime, mint, and fizz, this alcohol-free twist on the classic Cuban cocktail is both invigorating and family-friendly. Served over crushed ice and garnished with fresh mint and lime, it’s a visual treat as much as a palate cleanser.

This drink is perfect for warm afternoons, garden brunches, or anytime you want something bright and zingy without alcohol. Whether you’re mixing up a single glass or a whole pitcher, it delivers a crisp, cool sip every time.

What Kind of Mint Should I Use?

Fresh spearmint is ideal for a Virgin Mojito. It has a bright flavor and gentle sweetness that pairs well with the lime and sugar. Avoid peppermint, which is much stronger and can overpower the drink. Always choose leaves that are perky and green, not wilted.

Ingredients for the Virgin Mojito

Fresh Mint Leaves
Essential for the signature aromatic kick. Muddling the mint releases its oils and gives the drink its refreshing scent.

Lime
Use freshly sliced lime for both juice and garnish. It brings the necessary acidity and citrusy brightness.

Sugar
Granulated sugar helps balance the tartness of the lime. It also helps muddle the mint more effectively.

Soda Water
This adds the sparkle. Club soda or sparkling mineral water works best for an effervescent lift.

Crushed Ice
Keeps the drink chilled and enhances its texture. Crushed ice allows the flavors to meld more evenly.

Lime Wedges and Mint Sprig (for garnish)
Aesthetics matter! These final touches make the drink look polished and inviting.

How To Make the Virgin Mojito

Step 1: Muddle the Mint and Lime

In a sturdy glass, combine about 10 fresh mint leaves and 2 lime wedges. Add 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press and twist. This releases the mint’s oils and lime juice, creating the flavor base.

Step 2: Add More Lime

Squeeze the juice of another lime wedge into the glass and drop it in. Muddle lightly again to mix.

Step 3: Fill with Ice

Add a generous amount of crushed ice into the glass until it’s nearly full. The crushed texture helps absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Top with Soda Water

Slowly pour soda water over the ice to fill the glass. Stir gently with a spoon or straw to distribute the mint and lime throughout.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top it off with a sprig of mint and a lime wheel or wedge on the rim of the glass. Serve immediately with a straw for a crisp, zesty finish.

Serving and Storing Your Virgin Mojito

Serve your Virgin Mojito immediately after preparing to enjoy the freshest flavors and the most fizz. This drink thrives on presentation, so clear glasses with crushed ice, mint sprigs, and lime slices make a big difference.

If you’re hosting a party, you can prep the mint-lime-sugar base ahead of time and keep it chilled. When ready to serve, just add ice and soda water. Avoid storing a fully mixed mojito for later—the fizz fades and the mint turns bitter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use lemon instead of lime?

Yes, though lime is more traditional and gives a more authentic mojito flavor. Lemon will add a slightly different citrus profile but still works well.

What if I don’t have a muddler?

You can use the back of a wooden spoon or the end of a rolling pin. Just press gently to avoid shredding the mint.

Can I make a pitcher for a crowd?

Absolutely! Just scale up the ingredients. For every serving, use about 10 mint leaves, 2 lime wedges, and 2 teaspoons sugar.

What kind of soda water should I use?

Plain soda water or sparkling mineral water is best. Avoid tonic water as it adds bitterness.

Is it okay to blend the drink?

Blending gives a slushy texture, which can be fun for summer. Just don’t overdo it or the mint can turn bitter.

Want More Drink Ideas?

You might also like the 10-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse Guide, if you’re looking to kickstart your mornings with something healthy. Or try the Creamy Boat Dip (Rotel Ranch Dip) if you’re serving your mojito at a gathering—it’s a great contrast of creamy and zesty.

For dessert pairings, check out the Fluffy Japanese Souffle Pancakes for a soft, cloud-like finish. Or for a chilled snack, Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries bring an elegant touch.

Planning more drinks? The Apple Enchiladas can serve as a sweet, tangy follow-up if you’re in the mood to keep it fruity.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go heavy on the mint? Try it with lemon? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others mix it up.

Virgin Mojito

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving

Print Recipe

Description

A bright, bubbly mocktail made with fresh lime, mint, and soda water, this Virgin Mojito is the perfect way to refresh on a hot day. It’s crisp, zesty, and wonderfully easy to make—ideal for sipping solo or serving to guests.

Ingredients

10 fresh mint leaves

3 lime wedges (2 for muddling, 1 for juice)

2 teaspoons granulated sugar

Crushed ice (enough to fill the glass)

Soda water (to top off)

Mint sprig and lime wheel (for garnish)

Instructions

Place 10 mint leaves and 2 lime wedges into a sturdy glass.
Add 2 teaspoons of sugar and muddle gently to release the lime juice and mint oils.
Squeeze in the juice from an additional lime wedge and muddle lightly again.
Fill the glass with crushed ice nearly to the top.
Pour soda water over the ice until the glass is full.
Stir gently to combine the flavors evenly.
Garnish with a mint sprig and lime wheel. Serve immediately

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minute
Category: Drinks