If you’re looking for a Cuban mojito cocktail, you’ve come to the right place!

An authentic Cuban mojito tastes refreshingly sweet, minty-fresh, and citrusy. It’s basically summer in a glass!

What is a Mojito?

A mojito is a classic Cuban highball cocktail served on the rocks (over ice) made of white rum, real cane sugar, lime juice, club soda, and fresh mint. All the flavors complement the rum so well.

It is said that the name originates from the name “mojo” which is a Cuban citrus marinade used for several Cuban dishes.

tall highball glass with mint, sugar, cuban rum, and fresh lime

The Origin of the Cuban Mojito

Some argue that the popular drink originated in Puerto Rico while others say it originated in Cuba yet the details are unclear.

One theory says that Sir Francis Drake invented the mojito and named it “El Draque” after himself. Another theory says that African slaves who worked in Cuban sugar cane fields during the 19th century discovered Guarapo, a sugar cane juice, which contributed to the creation of mojitos.

It is also said that Ernest Hemingway enjoyed the drink as a regular of the bar, La Bodeguita del Medio, in Havana Cuba, writing “My mojito in La Bodeguita, My daiquiri in El Floridita” on the wall of the bar.

No matter how mojitos gained their popularity, one thing remained the same, mint, sugar, and lime were always the stars of the show.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cuban rum. To make an authentic Cuban mojito, I recommend using a light aged white rum like Havana Club 3 Años which is made with sugarcane molasses and Caribbean rum. Make sure the rum is at room temperature so the sugar dissolves easily.
Fresh mint leaves. When you muddle the 4 mint sprigs in each glass, the minty aroma will fill the air! I also add more into the glass as garnish.
White cane sugar. Some recipes call for simple syrup but I prefer using cane sugar. If you plan on using simple syrup instead of white sugar, use a cocktail shaker.
Fresh lime. Don’t get the bottled stuff, use fresh limes for both the lime juice and use lime slices/wedges as garnish.
Club soda. We’re using this to top off the drink. You can also use sparkling water if you prefer.

How To Make a Cuban Mojito

Dissolve the sugar. In a highball glass, add the cane sugar and lime juice. Gently stir until the sugar is dissolved.
Muddle the mint. Add the mint leaves to the bottom of the glass. Gently muddle the mint with a muddler until the leaves release their oils (you’ll smell it!).
Add in the rum. Pour in the white rum and stir to combine with the lime, sugar, and mint.
Top with club soda. Fill the glass with ice then top off the drink with club soda. Garnish with mint sprigs and lime wedges/slices.