This Christmas Cranberry Mojito is a festive twist on a classic drink! It mixes fresh mint, juicy cranberries, and a splash of lime for a refreshing sip that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Every year, I love to serve these at my holiday parties. The bright colors and bubbly soda make them look so pretty, and trust me, they taste even better! Cheers to merry moments! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries are key for that tart flavor. If you can’t find them, consider using cranberry juice, but reduce the sugar since the juice is sweeter.
Mint: Fresh mint is a must for that refreshing taste. If you don’t have it, try using basil for a different flavor profile, though it’s not quite the same!
Sugar: Adjust sugar based on your preference. You can use honey or agave syrup as alternatives which dissolve more easily in cold drinks.
Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens the drink. If you’re out of limes, lemon juice can be used, though the taste will differ slightly.
White Rum: Light rum is great, but you could substitute with vodka for a different twist or even use coconut rum for extra flavor.
How Do You Properly Muddle Ingredients for a Mojito?
Muddling is essential to release the flavors of the mint and cranberries. Keep these tips in mind:
- Use a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker. A wide mouth helps!
- Gently press down and twist the muddler a few times instead of smashing ingredients. This releases their oils without turning them into mush.
- Aim for a rough mix, where the cranberries are crushed but still chunky. This gives your drink a nice texture.
Taking your time with this step makes a big difference in flavor, so don’t rush it! Enjoy your mixing! 🍹
How to Make Christmas Cranberry Mojito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Drink:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges, plus extra lime slices for garnish
- 2 ounces white rum
- Club soda or sparkling water, to top off
- Crushed ice
Time Needed:
This Christmas Cranberry Mojito takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and fun drink to whip up for your holiday gatherings, and you’ll be sipping on this festive delight in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker, combine the fresh cranberries, mint leaves, sugar, and lime wedges. This mix is the heart of your mojito!
2. Muddle It Up:
Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently muddle the ingredients together. You want to crush the cranberries and release the mint’s aroma without overdoing it. The lime juice should mix in nicely, and the sugar will start to dissolve a bit.
3. Add the Rum:
Pour the white rum into the muddled mixture and stir well to combine. This will blend all those delicious flavors together!
4. Ice It Up:
Fill a highball glass with crushed ice. You want it nice and chilly to enjoy every sip!
5. Mix and Top Off:
Pour the muddled cranberry-mint-rum mixture over the crushed ice, filling the glass. Next, top it off with club soda or sparkling water. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
6. Garnish and Serve:
To make your drink look festive, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, a slice of lime on the rim, and a few cranberries floating on top. It’s all about that holiday cheer!
7. Enjoy:
Serve it immediately and enjoy this bright, refreshing Christmas Cranberry Mojito! Cheers to a wonderful holiday season!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but they won’t have the same texture. Thaw them beforehand and drain any excess liquid before muddling to prevent a watery drink.
Can I Make This Drink Non-Alcoholic?
Absolutely! Just skip the rum and replace it with extra club soda or a splash of cranberry juice for flavor while still keeping it festive and fun!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Mojito?
For the best taste, this cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator without ice for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add ice and a fresh splash of soda when you serve it again!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can muddle the cranberries, mint, sugar, and lime in advance and store it in the fridge. Just mix in the rum and soda right before serving to keep it bubbly and fresh!
