Refreshing and light, the Watermelon Mojito is a summer-ready twist on the Cuban classic. Juicy chunks of watermelon are muddled with fresh mint and lime, then combined with white rum and a touch of sweetness for a crisp, fruit-forward drink. Finished with a splash of club soda and served over ice, it’s a vibrant, cooling choice for warm afternoons or backyard get-togethers.
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Tasting Notes
The Watermelon Mojito combines fresh fruit and mint for a crisp, summer-friendly profile. Juicy watermelon adds a naturally sweet base that pairs well with the citrusy brightness of lime. Fresh mint brings a cool, clean contrast, while white rum supports the blend with a light, smooth finish. The addition of simple syrup rounds it all out, adding just enough sweetness without masking the fruit. A splash of club soda introduces a gentle fizz, lifting the flavors and keeping the drink light. Served ice-cold, it’s a mellow, fruit-forward option with herbal highlights and a refreshing aftertaste.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a shaker to combine and chill the ingredients, and a muddler to press the watermelon and mint. A jigger or measuring spoons will help keep quantities accurate. Use a strainer to keep pulp out of the final pour if desired. A long spoon may be helpful for a quick stir after topping with soda. For serving, a highball or Collins glass is ideal it gives the drink enough room for ice and soda while showing off its vivid color. Don’t forget a citrus juicer for the lime and a paring knife for prepping the garnish.
Ingredients
- 3 watermelon cubes
- 6–8 fresh mint leaves
- 2 oz white rum
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Club soda, to top (about 2–3 oz)
- Garnish: Lime wheel, watermelon wedge, and mint sprig
Instructions
- In a hurricane glass, muddle the watermelon cubes and mint leaves to release flavor.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Add 2 oz rum, 0.75 oz lime juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup.
- Top with 2–3 oz of club soda.
- Stir gently using a bar spoon or mixing glass to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wheel, a watermelon wedge, and a mint sprig.
- Serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- Use ripe, chilled watermelon for better texture and flavor
- Avoid over-muddling mint to prevent bitterness
- Adjust simple syrup to match your sweetness preference
- Chill the glass beforehand for a colder sip
- Strain through a fine mesh for a smoother presentation
- Add the soda gently to preserve carbonation
- Use large ice cubes to slow dilution
- Garnish with a mint sprig close to the straw for aroma
- Roll the lime before juicing to get more juice
- Consider freezing watermelon chunks to use as ice
When to Serve
The Watermelon Mojito is a go-to option for summer afternoons, poolside gatherings, or outdoor brunches. It’s perfect for hot weather thanks to its refreshing flavor and cooling ingredients. Serve it at picnics, barbecues, or patio happy hours where light, fruit-based drinks are a hit. Its colorful presentation and fresh ingredients also make it a great choice for casual entertaining or as a signature cocktail for themed events like tropical nights or summer garden parties. It’s best served fresh and cold.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- White Rum:
- Bacardí Superior
- Don Q Cristal
- Havana Club 3 Años
- Plantation 3 Stars
- Flor de Caña Extra Dry
Similar Cocktails
- Cucumber Watermelon Mojito
- Raspberry Coconut Mojito
- Strawberry Coconut Mojito
- Lychee Mojito
- Mango Pineapple Mojito
Ingredients
- 3 watermelon cubes
- 6 –8 fresh mint leaves
- 2 oz white rum
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Club soda to top (about 2–3 oz)
- Ice
- Garnish: Lime wheel watermelon wedge, and mint sprig
Instructions
- In a hurricane glass, muddle the watermelon cubes and mint leaves to release flavor.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Add 2 oz rum, 0.75 oz lime juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup.
- Top with 2–3 oz of club soda.
- Stir gently using a bar spoon or mixing glass to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wheel, a watermelon wedge, and a mint sprig.
- Serve immediately.
Video
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use ripe, seedless watermelon for best results overripe fruit can make the drink too pulpy.
- A fine mesh strainer helps remove any watermelon pulp if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Adjust the simple syrup based on the sweetness of your fruit.