This Watermelon Mojito is bright pink, ice-cold, and tastes like summer in a glass. Fresh watermelon puree blends with crisp mint, tangy lime, and a splash of rum to create a drink that's sweet, fizzy, and so refreshing you'll want to make another one before you've finished the first. I started making these last July when my neighbor Hannah brought over a huge watermelon from the farmer's market, and now I can't get through summer without them. They're incredibly easy to make, and the flavor is so much better than anything you'd get at a bar.
If you're looking for more refreshing drinks to cool down with, try my Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte for a creamy, fruity twist, or my Orange Juice recipe for a classic morning favorite.
Why You will Love This Watermelon Mojito!
This cocktail is sweet without being sugary, minty without tasting like toothpaste, and has that gorgeous pink color that makes you feel like you're on vacation. It comes together in about five minutes, uses ingredients you probably already have, and tastes like you spent all afternoon at a beachside bar. The watermelon puree gives it a natural sweetness and a smooth, almost creamy texture that makes every sip feel indulgent. Plus, it's easy to turn into a mocktail by skipping the rum and adding extra club soda.
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Watermelon Mojito Ingredients
Here's what goes into this refreshing minty summer cocktail.
See Recipe Card Below This Post For Ingredient Quantities
- Fresh mint leaves: These release their oils when muddled and give the drink that classic mojito flavor. Fresh mint makes all the difference here.
- Fresh lime juice: Adds brightness and tang to balance the sweetness of the watermelon. Always use fresh lime juice, not bottled.
- Simple syrup: Sweetens the drink and helps the mint release its flavor when you muddle. You can make your own or buy it at the store.
- Light rum: The alcohol base for this cocktail. Light rum has a clean, subtle flavor that lets the watermelon and mint shine.
- Watermelon puree (strained): This is what makes the drink so refreshing and gives it that beautiful pink color. Strain it so you don't get any pulp in your glass.
- Club soda: Adds fizz and lightness. You can adjust the amount based on how strong or bubbly you want your drink.
- Mint sprigs and small watermelon wedges for garnish (optional): Makes the drink look pretty and adds a little extra flavor and aroma.
How to Make Watermelon Mojito
This easy mojito recipe comes together in just a few minutes.
- Muddle the mint: In the bottom of a Collins or tall glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the lime juice and simple syrup using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon. You'll start to smell the fresh mint as the oils release. Don't press too hard or the mint will taste bitter.
- Add ice: Fill the glass about two-thirds full with ice. This keeps the drink cold and refreshing.
- Pour in rum and watermelon: Add the light rum and watermelon puree to the glass. The pink color will start to swirl through the ice.
- Top with club soda: Pour club soda over the top to your taste, then stir everything together well so the flavors combine. You'll see the drink get fizzy and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Add a sprig of fresh mint or a small wedge of watermelon on the rim of the glass if you like. Serve immediately while it's cold and fizzy.
Substitutions and Variations
No rum? Leave it out completely and add extra club soda for a refreshing watermelon mojito without alcohol. You can also try it with vodka if that's what you have on hand.
Simple syrup substitute: Use honey, agave nectar, or even a little sugar dissolved in warm water. Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
Sprite instead of club soda: If you want a sweeter, more citrusy version, try using Sprite or lemon-lime soda. This is a popular variation that makes the drink a bit more kid-friendly.
Different fruit: Swap the watermelon for strawberry puree, mango, or even cantaloupe. The basic mojito structure works with lots of summer fruits.
Equipment
Collins or tall glass: This tall glass shows off the pretty pink color and gives you room for plenty of ice.
Muddler or wooden spoon: You'll need this to gently press the mint and release its oils. A wooden spoon works just fine if you don't have a muddler.
Fine-mesh sieve (optional): If you're making your own watermelon puree, strain it through a sieve so you don't get any chunks or seeds in your drink.
Storage and Serving Tips
This watermelon drink with rum is best enjoyed fresh, right after you make it. The fizz from the club soda fades quickly, and the ice will melt and water it down if you let it sit. If you want to prep ahead, you can make a batch of watermelon puree and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just keep it in an airtight container and give it a stir before using.
For serving, pour the mojito into a chilled glass if you have time to pop one in the freezer for a few minutes. It keeps the drink colder longer. You can also make a big pitcher by multiplying the recipe, but add the club soda right before serving so it stays bubbly.
What to Serve with Watermelon Mojitos
These light rum mojitos pair beautifully with summer foods. Serve them alongside grilled chicken, fish tacos, or a fresh summer salad. They're also wonderful with light appetizers like shrimp cocktail, bruschetta, or a cheese board. If you're hosting a backyard barbecue, these are the kind of drinks that disappear fast. Pair them with my Sugarcane Juice for a non-alcoholic option, or go bold with a Chocolate Martini for dessert.
Expert Tips
Use seedless watermelon: It makes pureeing and straining so much easier. You'll get a smoother drink with less effort.
Don't over-muddle the mint: Press just enough to release the oils. If you smash it too much, the mint turns bitter and the drink tastes like grass.
Chill your glass first: A cold glass keeps your fizzy watermelon drink colder for longer, especially on hot days.
Adjust the sweetness: Taste your watermelon puree before you make the drink. If it's super sweet, you can cut back on the simple syrup. If it's bland, add a little more.
Make it a mocktail: Skip the rum and add a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale for a refreshing non-alcoholic version the whole family can enjoy.
Freeze watermelon cubes: Instead of regular ice, freeze small cubes of watermelon and use those. They won't water down your drink as they melt.
FAQ
A watermelon mojito contains fresh mint, lime juice, simple syrup, light rum, watermelon puree, and club soda. It's a fruity twist on the classic mojito that's perfect for summer.
Yes, it's refreshing, fruity, and has a wonderful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The watermelon adds natural sweetness and a smooth texture that makes it easy to drink. It's one of my favorite summer cocktails.
Light rum, vodka, and tequila all mix well with watermelon. Light rum is traditional for mojitos and has a clean flavor that doesn't overpower the fruit. Vodka is more neutral, and tequila gives it a fun, margarita-like twist.
Muddle mint with lime juice and simple syrup, add ice, pour in rum and watermelon puree, then top with club soda. Stir everything together and garnish with fresh mint. It takes about five minutes from start to finish.
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Pairing
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Watermelon Mojitos
Ingredients
Method
- In the bottom of a Collins or tall glass, muddle the mint leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup together using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon.
- Fill the glass two-thirds full with ice. Add the rum and watermelon puree.
- Top the drink with club soda and stir well to combine.
- Garnish with a mint sprig or small watermelon wedge, if desired.
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