As a bartender, I've seen my fair share of cocktail recipes come and go. But there's one ingredient that always seems to stand the test of time: mint.
Whether it's used as a garnish or a main flavor component, mint adds a fresh and invigorating element to any drink.
But not all mint cocktails are created equal. Some are too sweet, while others are too strong.
It takes a skilled bartender to strike the perfect balance between the herbaceous notes of mint and the other flavors in a cocktail.
In this blog post, I'll be sharing some of my favorite mint cocktail recipes that are sure to impress your guests.
From classic drinks like the Mojito and the Mint Julep to lesser-known gems like the Southside and the Grasshopper, these cocktails showcase the versatility of mint and the artistry of mixology.
So, whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or a fancy dinner party, these mint cocktails are sure to be a hit.
So, grab your shaker and your favorite bottle of spirits and let's get mixing!
1. Mojito
The Mojito is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for centuries. This refreshing drink is perfect for warm weather and is made with white rum, lime juice, mint leaves, and simple syrup. What sets this recipe apart is the use of mint-infused simple syrup, which eliminates the need for muddling mint leaves with sugar.
This shortcut makes it easy to whip up a batch of Mojitos for your next party or gathering. The cocktail is garnished with fresh mint leaves or a lime wedge, making it a beautiful and delicious addition to any event. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a novice bartender, the Mojito is a must-try recipe that is sure to impress.
2. Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is a classic bourbon cocktail that has become synonymous with the Kentucky Derby. Made with fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice, this refreshing cocktail is perfect for spring and summer sipping. The combination of sweet and smoky flavors from the bourbon, along with the cooling effect of the mint, make for a delicious and balanced drink.
Traditionally served in a silver or pewter cup, the Mint Julep is a must-try for any bourbon lover or cocktail enthusiast. So, whether you're watching the Derby or just looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy on a warm day, give the Mint Julep a try and see why it's become an iconic cocktail.
3. Misty Mint
The Misty Mint is a refreshing and simple cocktail with a touch of sweetness from the rum. It's perfect for cooling off in the summer or enjoying in the winter as a traditional winter flavor.
The drink can be served with or without ice and can be topped with a chocolate mint candy for added elegance. If you're a fan of mint cocktails, the Misty Mint is definitely worth a try.
4. Chocolate Mint Martini
The Chocolate Mint Martini is a delightful twist on the classic vodka martini. This festive cocktail is perfect for the holiday season and will satisfy any sweet tooth. The combination of chocolate liqueur, vodka, and milk creates a creamy and indulgent drink that is perfect for sipping after dinner or enjoying with friends.
The addition of a peppermint rim adds a refreshing touch to the rich flavors of the drink. This cocktail is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients, making it a great option for any occasion. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to serve at your next party, the Chocolate Mint Martini is definitely worth a try.
5. Verdant Lady
The Verdant Lady is a complex and refreshing cocktail that combines the flavors of mint, gin, and Green Chartreuse liqueur. This cocktail is perfect for those who like their drinks strong, cool, and herbaceous. The Green Chartreuse adds a bittersweet note to the cocktail, while the mint brings a refreshing coolness.
The gin ties everything together with its botanical flavors. The cocktail can be served on the rocks or strained into a coupe glass for a more elegant presentation. The Verdant Lady is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and sophisticated mint cocktail.
6. Classic Mojito
The Classic Mojito is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is sure to please any crowd. Made with white rum, lime juice, and fresh mint leaves, this Cuban drink is perfect for a hot summer day or a night out with friends. The combination of the mint and lime creates a tangy and sweet flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying.
The Mojito is a perfect balance of sweet and sour, with a hint of mint that lingers on the tongue. It's a classic cocktail that never goes out of style and is sure to impress your guests. If you're looking for a refreshing and delicious cocktail, the Classic Mojito is definitely worth a try.
7. Blackberry Mojito
The Blackberry Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic mint mojito. This cocktail is perfect for a warm summer day, with its delicious combination of fresh mint, lime juice, and flavorful blackberries. The addition of soda water gives it a light and bubbly texture that is sure to please.
One of the best things about this cocktail is that it can be made ahead of time, so you can spend more time enjoying it with your friends and family. Just be careful, as this cocktail packs a punch! If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to try this summer, the Blackberry Mojito is definitely worth a try.
8. Watermelon Mint Cocktail
The Watermelon Mint Cocktail is a refreshing summer drink that is perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh watermelon juice, vodka, and a homemade mint-infused simple syrup, this cocktail is both sweet and tangy with a hint of mint. The addition of club soda gives it a nice fizz, making it a perfect drink to cool off on a hot summer day.
The best part about this cocktail is how easy it is to make with only five simple ingredients. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a summer party, the Watermelon Mint Cocktail is sure to impress your guests. So, grab a glass and enjoy the taste of summer in every sip.
9. Mango Mint Vodka Cooler
The Mango Mint Vodka Cooler is a refreshing and crisp cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with homemade mint simple syrup, mango juice, lime, and vodka, this cocktail is sweet and flavorful. The combination of mango and mint is a unique and delicious flavor that will leave you wanting more.
The addition of club soda adds a nice bubbly texture to the drink. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and refreshing drink. If you're looking for a new cocktail to try, the Mango Mint Vodka Cooler is definitely worth a try.
10. Mojito Cocktail
The Mojito Cocktail is a classic and refreshing summer drink that combines rum, mint, lime, and simple syrup. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and tart flavors, with a hint of mint that adds a refreshing touch. The Mojito Cocktail is a popular choice for those looking to cool off on a hot day, and it's easy to see why.
The combination of ingredients creates a perfect harmony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. If you're a fan of rum cocktails or just looking to try something new, the Mojito Cocktail is definitely worth a try. With its refreshing taste and easy-to-make recipe, it's no wonder why this cocktail has become a classic.
11. Lemon Mint Julep Cocktail
The Lemon Mint Julep Cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic Southern drink that has been a Kentucky Derby favorite for over a century. Made with bourbon, lemonade, and fresh mint simple syrup, this cocktail perfectly balances the sweetness and tanginess of the lemon with the smoothness of the bourbon.
The addition of mint adds a refreshing and aromatic touch to the drink, making it perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for any occasion.
12. Ultimate Mojito Cocktail
The Ultimate Mojito Cocktail is a refreshing and classic summer drink that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is made with fresh mint, lime, sugar, white rum, and seltzer. The combination of these ingredients creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a favorite for many.
The Mojito originated in Cuba and has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a perfect drink for those who love a refreshing and light cocktail. The Ultimate Mojito Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves mint cocktails or is looking for a new summer drink.
13. Apple Cider Mojito
The Apple Cider Mojito is a delicious twist on the classic mojito recipe. This fall-inspired cocktail combines the refreshing taste of mint with the tart flavor of apples and the warmth of spiced rum. It's a perfect drink for those who want to enjoy a refreshing yet seasonal cocktail. The cocktail is garnished with diced apples, more mint, and a cinnamon stick, which adds to its visual appeal.
The best part about this recipe is that you can experiment with different apple-flavored liquors or spirits to find the one that suits your taste buds. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Apple Cider Mojito is definitely worth a try.
14. Tequila Mojito
The Tequila Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic Mojito cocktail, made with tequila instead of rum. This cocktail has a light citrus flavor with a hint of mint, making it the perfect drink for a hot summer day.
The combination of sweetness, citrus, and refreshing mint is what makes this cocktail so popular. The Tequila Mojito is easy to prepare and is a great option for anyone who loves a good cocktail. If you're looking for a new drink to try, the Tequila Mojito is definitely worth a shot.
15. Mint Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail
The Mint Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail is a perfect drink for those who love a refreshing and flavorful cocktail. Made with just five ingredients, this cocktail strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. The sunset-hued grapefruit vodka cocktail is like summertime, served up in a glass.
The use of Prairie Organic Spirits, the very first USDA Certified organic spirits brand, makes this cocktail unique and smooth in flavor. The brand's passion for craftsmanship and commitment to organic farming is evident in the quality of the vodka used in this cocktail. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for any occasion.
16. Southside Cocktail
The Southside Cocktail is a refreshing and botanical drink that is perfect for any occasion. Made with mint, lemon, lime, and gin, this classic cocktail is similar to a Tom Collins but with a unique twist. The addition of soda water creates a Southside Fizz, which is perfect for daytime sipping.
The garnish of smacked mint leaves adds a herb-forward flavor to the drink. To make the perfect Southside Cocktail, invest in a mid-price range gin and muddle the mint before adding it to the drink. Whether you're sipping on a cocktail night with friends or enjoying an afternoon drink on the patio, the Southside Cocktail is a must-try for any mint cocktail lover.
17. White Wine Mojito
The White Wine Mojito is a refreshing and perfect cocktail for summer. This cocktail is a twist on the classic mojito, which includes fresh mint, fresh lime, and white wine. The light and dry wine used in this cocktail, such as sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio, adds a unique flavor that is perfect for sipping poolside, spring brunches, and showers.
It's a great alternative to a regular mojito, especially if you're not a fan of rum. If you're looking for a skinny version, you can reduce the added sugar by using lemon-flavored sparkling water instead of Italian soda. The White Wine Mojito is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh and fruity cocktails.
18. Old Cuban Cocktail
The Old Cuban Cocktail is a modern classic that combines the flavors of two beloved drinks: the Mojito and the French 75. Created by renowned bartender Audrey Saunders in 2001, this cocktail is made with aged rum, mint, lime juice, simple syrup, and champagne. What sets the Old Cuban apart is the use of aged rum, which adds complex flavors of vanilla, coconut, almond, citrus, or caramel.
The addition of champagne gives this cocktail a bubbly, refreshing twist that's perfect for any celebration. It's a sweet-tart drink that's easy to make and tastes like something you'd get at a fancy bar. The Old Cuban Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves mint cocktails and wants to impress their guests with a modern twist on a classic drink.
19. Vodka Mojito
The Vodka Mojito is a refreshing and citrusy cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with fresh mint, lime, simple syrup, soda water and vodka, this twist on the classic mojito is a great alternative for those who find rum too sweet. The neutral flavor of vodka allows the sweet mint and lime to shine through, making it a great poolside or patio sip.
Any vodka can be used for this cocktail, but Tito's is a great option if you want it to taste more like the classic rum-based mojito. If you're looking for a fun and easy cocktail to make with fresh ingredients, the Vodka Mojito is definitely worth a try.
20. Strawberry Mojito
The Strawberry Mojito is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic Cuban cocktail. Made with fresh strawberries, mint, lime, and your choice of white rum, cachaça, or dark rum, this cocktail is perfect for a warm summer evening.
The combination of sweet and tangy flavors from the strawberries and lime, paired with the herbaceous notes of fresh mint, make for a delicious and easy-to-sip drink. Whether you're hosting a summer party or just looking for a refreshing cocktail to enjoy on your patio, the Strawberry Mojito is sure to impress. So, grab your favorite rum and get ready to mix up this tasty drink!
21. Chocolate Mojito
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique twist on the classic mojito, the Chocolate Mojito is a must-try. This cocktail combines the flavors of mint, lime, and dark rum with a chocolate twist, making it a perfect summer drink. The addition of crème de cacao gives it a rich, chocolatey taste that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
This cocktail is easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. It's a great option for those who want to try something new and exciting. So, if you're looking for a delicious and refreshing mint cocktail, give the Chocolate Mojito a try.
22. Grasshopper
If you're looking for a sweet and creamy cocktail that doubles as a dessert, the Grasshopper is the perfect choice. Made with a mint-flavored liqueur, a chocolate-flavored liqueur, and half and half or cream, this cocktail tastes like a grown-up version of a mint-chocolate chip milkshake.
It's easy to adjust the proportions to suit your taste, and you can even turn it into a milkshake by adding ice cream. For an extra kick, try the Flying Grasshopper by adding vodka or Kahlua. With its vibrant green color and delicious flavor, the Grasshopper is sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.
23. The Classic Mojito Cocktail
The Classic Mojito Cocktail is a refreshing and zesty summer drink originating in Havana, Cuba. It's made with rum, sugar, lime, and mint and is perfect for sipping poolside or to take the heat from a hot city night.
With its simple recipe, it's easy to make and even easier to customize with variations like the Grapefruit Champagne Mojito. If you're looking for a refreshing and classic cocktail to try, the Classic Mojito Cocktail is a must-try.
24. Elderflower Smash
The Elderflower Smash is a refreshing and crisp cocktail that is perfect for happy hour. This cocktail combines the floral notes of elderflower liqueur with the herbal bite of gin and the zing of fresh lemon juice. The mint leaves add a refreshing twist to the cocktail.
The Elderflower Smash is a perfect choice for those who love elderflower flavor and want to try something new. It is a great cocktail to enjoy with friends or to unwind after a long day. With its fresh and unique taste, the Elderflower Smash is sure to become your new favorite cocktail.
25. Cherry Bounty
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to try, look no further than the Cherry Bounty. This cocktail features Green Chartreuse, a bitter and herbaceous liqueur, balanced with the sweetness of cherries and a touch of chocolate bitters.
The addition of fresh mint and gold rum make this cocktail a perfect summer sipper. What's even better? No syrups are required for this recipe! The Cherry Bounty is a must-try for anyone looking to experiment with new flavors and ingredients in their cocktails.
26. Classic Mojitos
The Classic Mojito is a refreshing and crowd-pleasing rum cocktail that is perfect for parties and outdoor gatherings. Made with fresh limes, mint leaves, sugar, and white Bacardi rum, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good minty drink. The bright citrus smell and the aromatics of the mint make this cocktail a treat for your senses.
It's great for those hot summer days when you want to cool off with a delicious and fun drink. The longer the flavor infuses together, the better it tastes, so making a pitcher of mojitos ahead of time is ideal. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that's perfect for any occasion, then the Classic Mojito is the way to go.
27. Skinny Mojito
The Skinny Mojito is a refreshing and light summer cocktail that is perfect for those who want to enjoy the sweet mint and lime flavors without consuming too many calories. This cocktail is a great option for those following low-carb diets like Atkins and Keto, as it has only 4 carbs per serving and just 79 calories.
Made with white rum, fresh mint leaves, lime juice, and a touch of sweetener, this cocktail is quick and easy to make with just four ingredients. The best part? You can adjust the recipe to make a pitcher of mojitos to serve a crowd. If you're a fan of mojitos, this Skinny version is definitely worth trying. Cheers to a guilt-free summer sip!
28. Honeysuckle Cherry Smash
Looking for a refreshing and unique summertime cocktail? Look no further than the Honeysuckle Cherry Smash. This cocktail features the delightful flavor of honeysuckle vodka, combined with the natural sweetness of cherries and a touch of mint and agave. It's not overly sweet, but perfectly balanced for a refreshing sip on a hot day.
Plus, with the option to switch out the honeysuckle vodka for bourbon, rum, or plain vodka, this cocktail is versatile and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. If you're looking for a new summertime sipper, give the Honeysuckle Cherry Smash a try.
29. Tequila Smash
The Tequila Smash is a refreshing and minty cocktail that is perfect for summer. This cocktail is a combination of a margarita and a mojito, with a delicious blend of tequila, freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice, honey syrup, and crushed mint leaves.
The honey syrup adds a touch of sweetness to the tangy citrus flavors, while the mint leaves give the cocktail a refreshing and cooling taste. This cocktail is perfect for those who love tequila and want a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail. Try it out for your next summer party or just to enjoy on a hot day.
30. Kumquat Mojito
The Kumquat Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic mojito. It features the small, bitter citrus fruit known as kumquat, which adds a unique flavor and texture to the drink.
The muddled kumquat and mint leaves are mixed with rum, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup, resulting in a complex and delicious flavor. It's a great addition to any cocktail menu and is sure to impress your guests.
31. Gin Mojito
The Gin Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic mojito cocktail. This cocktail replaces the traditional rum with gin, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. It is made with lime juice, fresh mint leaves, sugar, gin, and topped with a dash of club soda. This cocktail is perfect for those who love gin and want to try something new.
If you're a fan of mojitos but want to switch things up, the Gin Mojito is definitely worth a try. It's a light and refreshing summer drink that's perfect for sipping on a hot day. So, if you're looking for a new cocktail to add to your repertoire, give the Gin Mojito a try!