This Christmas Cranberry Mojito is a fun and festive drink! With bright cranberry juice, fresh mint, and zesty lime, it’s perfect for the holidays.
It’s so refreshing that you’ll want to share it with everyone! I love making a big pitcher to enjoy while decorating the tree. Cheers to tasty sips! 🎄🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries add a tartness that balances the sweetness of the drink. If they’re out of season, you can use cranberry juice instead, but fresh gives the best flavor and color!
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint is essential for that refreshing flavor. If you can’t find fresh mint, peppermint tea can be a substitute, although it will change the drink’s freshness.
Lime: Lime juice brings brightness. If you prefer, you can switch to lemon juice for a slightly different flavor profile, but it will be less tangy.
White Rum: This is classic for mojitos! If you want a non-alcoholic version, consider using extra soda or flavored sparkling water for a fun mocktail.
How Do You Muddle Without Crushing the Mint?
Muddling is key in releasing flavors without damaging the leaves too much. Here are some tips:
- Use a sturdy muddler or the back of a spoon. Press gently to crush the cranberries and mint leaves.
- Avoid grinding the mint too harshly; you want to release the oils, not turn them into chunks.
- Start with cranberries and sugar first, then add mint and lime. This helps combine flavors more gently.
Now you’re ready to make a delicious Christmas Cranberry Mojito that everyone will love! Enjoy crafting this festive drink.
Christmas Cranberry Mojito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mojito:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 10-12 fresh mint leaves
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or simple syrup
- 2 ounces white rum
- 1/2 cup cranberry juice
- Club soda or sparkling water, to top
- Crushed ice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Christmas Cranberry Mojito will take about 10 minutes to prepare. With vibrant, fresh ingredients coming together in no time, you can mix up a batch while enjoying the festive spirit!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Base:
Start by placing the fresh cranberries, mint leaves, and granulated sugar (or simple syrup) into a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press down and twist, releasing the flavors without crushing the mint too much. This will create a lovely base of flavor.
2. Add Lime:
Next, add the lime wedges to the mixture. Muddle again gently to extract the fresh lime juice, mixing it with the cranberries and mint. The lime juice brightens the drink!
3. Build the Drink:
Fill the glass with crushed ice. Pour in the white rum and cranberry juice over the ice. This will help keep the drink chilled and refreshing.
4. Mix It Up:
Using a spoon or a straw, stir gently to combine all the ingredients well. You want everything to blend without losing the fizz!
5. Top It Off:
Now it’s time for the finishing touch! Top off your glass with club soda or sparkling water for that refreshing fizz. This will make your drink light and bubbly!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
For a festive look, garnish your drink with a sprig of fresh mint, a slice of lime, and a few additional cranberries on top. Serve immediately with a straw or stirrer, and enjoy your colorful, festive Christmas Cranberry Mojito!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh Ones?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just be sure to thaw them before muddling. They might not be as vibrant as fresh, but they’ll still lend delicious flavor to your drink.
Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
Absolutely! To make a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the white rum and use extra cranberry juice or flavored sparkling water. This way, you can still enjoy a refreshing, festive drink!
How Do I Store Leftover Mojito Mix?
If you have leftover mix, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just add fresh ice, top with club soda, and serve!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to serve Mojitos fresh to retain the fizz, you can prepare the muddled base (cranberries, mint, and lime) ahead of time. Just add ice, rum, cranberry juice, and club soda right before serving for maximum freshness!
