Who else is super-ready for a spring cocktail?? I made my first mojito with raspberries instead of the usual lime-and-mint after finding a pint of berries at the farmers market that were too soft to eat on their own. I muddled 120 ml (1/2 cup) of fresh raspberries with 10 mint leaves and a tablespoon of sugar in the bottom of a glass. The raspberries broke down into a deep pink pulp. I added the juice of one lime and 60 ml (2 ounces) of white rum, filled the glass with ice cubes, and topped with club soda.
The raspberry version has more body than a traditional mojito. The muddled berries give the drink a slight thickness and a tartness that works alongside the mint and lime. I have made several of these since that first batch and have not gone back to the plain version.
Tips for a Better Raspberry Mojito
Muddle thoroughly but gently
Press the raspberries, mint leaves, and sugar together in the glass with a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon. You want the berries broken down and the mint bruised, not shredded.
If you tear the mint leaves too aggressively, they release bitter compounds. Gentle pressure releases the aromatic oils without the bitterness. Ten to fifteen presses is usually enough.
Use fresh lime juice, not bottled
Squeeze the lime directly into the glass. Bottled lime juice has a flat, chemical taste that stands out in a simple drink like this.
One lime yields about 30 ml (1 ounce) of juice, which is the right amount. Roll the lime on the counter before cutting to release more juice.
Springtime Raspberry Mojito
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1
Description
A refreshing and fruity cocktail perfect for springtime gatherings, featuring fresh raspberries and mint.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 ounces white rum
- Club soda
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- In a glass, muddle the raspberries, mint leaves, and sugar together until the raspberries are broken down.
- Add the lime juice and white rum, then stir to combine.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes and top with club soda.
- Garnish with additional mint leaves and raspberries if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 10
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 2
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes. Thaw them first and they muddle easily. Frozen raspberries release more juice than fresh, which actually works well in this drink. The color will be just as vivid.
Can I skip the sugar?
The sugar balances the tartness of the lime and raspberries. Without it, the drink tastes sharp. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce to half a tablespoon instead of eliminating it entirely.
Can I make a pitcher for a party?
Muddle the raspberries, mint, and sugar in a pitcher. Add the lime juice and rum. When guests arrive, pour over ice and top each glass with club soda individually so the fizz stays fresh.
Ohh, that’s a refreshing cocktail!
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones, and will it change the texture or flavor noticeably?
You can, make sure to thaw them properly first. The texture and flavor will be a little different, but still tasty!
Try muddling the raspberries with the mint leaves and lime juice to really bring out their flavors before mixing the rest. Great way to blend it all!
I swapped the club soda for Sprite and loved it (sorry!).