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This refreshing peppermint sparkling mojito cocktail is the perfect balance of cool mint, tangy lime, and bubbly club soda, making it an ideal drink for holiday gatherings or a summer afternoon. I first created this for a festive winter party, and now it has become our all-year favorite, loved for its vibrant flavors and elegance.
I still remember experimenting with the minty twist during a chilly December evening, and it instantly became everyone's go-to cocktail for every celebration.
- White rum: for a smooth and classic mojito base
- Peppermint schnapps: to add a refreshing, cooling twist
- Simple syrup or sugar: for the perfect touch of sweetness
- Fresh mint leaves: for a bright and earthy aroma
- Fresh lime wedges: to bring zesty citrus flavor
- Ice cubes: to chill and create the refreshing coldness
- Club soda: for a bubbly and light finish
- Mint sprig and thin lime wheel: for garnish making it visually stunning
How To Make Peppermint Sparkling Mojito Cocktail
- Prepare the Base:
- Place fresh mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Layer in the sweetener. Add simple syrup or sugar on top of the mint and lime to balance the tanginess.
- Muddle:
- Gently muddle the mint and lime. Press just enough to release the essential oils from the mint and the juice from the lime without tearing.
- Add Ice:
- Fill the glass up to the top with ice cubes. This ensures the drink is cold and refreshing.
- Pour the Spirits:
- Measure and add the white rum and peppermint schnapps. These ingredients bring the signature flavors of this mojito and balance one another perfectly.
- Mix:
- Stir gently using a bar spoon. Combine the flavors while keeping the carbonation intact.
- Top Off with Club Soda:
- Pour club soda to fill the glass. The sparkling component makes the cocktail light and fizzy.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Add a sprig of mint and a thin lime wheel on top. Serve immediately to keep everything fresh and bubbly.
Using fresh mint leaves makes a noticeable difference in aroma and taste. I always prefer to pick the leaves from my garden because the scent alone brings nostalgia from my childhood summers spent in our backyard.
Storage Tips
This drink is best made fresh and served immediately to maintain its effervescence. However, you can prepare the muddled mint, lime, and sweetener mix a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator to save time.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a non-alcoholic version, replace white rum and peppermint schnapps with a dash of peppermint extract and additional club soda. You could also swap simple syrup for honey or agave for a unique flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cocktail with a festive spread of appetizers like bruschetta or shrimp cocktails at holiday parties or enjoy it with light snacks like nuts and cheese for a casual gathering.
Cultural Context
While the mojito originates in Cuba, this peppermint version adds a unique festive element, making it popular during the holiday season. Its timeless combination of mint, lime, and effervescence also gives it universal appeal for any time of the year.
The Peppermint Sparkling Mojito Cocktail is not only impressively easy to make but is also a gorgeous centerpiece for any gathering. Its refreshing taste and visual appeal make it a crowd-pleaser every single time. Make sure to stock up on fresh mint and lime so you can serve it often.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I muddle mint and lime properly?
Place mint leaves and lime wedges at the bottom of your glass and gently press with a muddler. Use a twisting motion to release the flavors without tearing the mint leaves.
- → Can I substitute peppermint schnapps?
If you don’t have peppermint schnapps, you can replace it with a homemade peppermint simple syrup or a few drops of peppermint extract.
- → What type of rum works best?
White rum is ideal for mojitos because of its light and smooth profile, which complements the fresh mint and lime flavors.
- → How do I make this non-alcoholic?
Replace the white rum and peppermint schnapps with sparkling water or a flavored soda for a refreshing mocktail version.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
It’s best to make this drink fresh. However, you can prepare the mint, lime, and sweetener mixture beforehand and store in the fridge. Add ice, rum, and soda just before serving.
- → What garnish works best?
A fresh mint sprig and a thin lime wheel are classic garnishes that not only enhance the presentation but add an extra pop of fresh aroma.