A merry holiday cocktail, the Elf Mojito combines the refreshing flavors of mint and lime with a festive red-and-green twist. This drink is a perfect choice for holiday parties or cozy nights by the fire, and its vibrant colors make it a showstopper on any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Festive Flair: Bright green mint leaves and a splash of red cranberry juice scream holiday cheer.
- Refreshing and Delicious: The classic mojito’s crisp flavors make this drink light and satisfying.
- Easy to Customize: Adjust sweetness, tartness, or alcohol levels to your liking.
Ingredients
Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll need (full list below):
- Fresh mint leaves
- Lime juice
- White rum
Directions
- Muddle Mint and Lime: In a glass, gently muddle fresh mint leaves with lime juice and sugar until the mint releases its aroma.
- Add Rum: Pour in white rum, followed by cranberry juice for a festive touch.
- Top with Club Soda: Fill the glass with ice and top with club soda for fizz.
- Garnish: Add fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint for a decorative finish.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t over-muddle the mint—it can become bitter.
- For a sweeter drink, use simple syrup instead of sugar.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Non-Alcoholic: Replace rum with sparkling water or ginger ale for a mocktail version.
- Berry Twist: Add muddled raspberries or strawberries for extra fruity notes.
- Herbal Touch: Experiment with basil or rosemary for a unique spin.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve the Elf Mojito with light appetizers like bruschetta, a cheese platter, or shrimp cocktail. It also pairs beautifully with sweet treats like shortbread cookies or chocolate truffles.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: The base mixture (minus the soda) can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Reheating: Not applicable, but stir well before serving if made ahead.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this in a large batch for a party?
A: Absolutely! Mix the mint, lime, sugar, rum, and cranberry juice in a pitcher, then add soda just before serving.
Q: What kind of rum is best for this recipe?
A: White rum is traditional for mojitos, but spiced rum adds a warm holiday flavor.
Q: Can I skip the cranberry juice?
A: Yes, though it adds a festive color and a hint of tartness. You can replace it with pomegranate juice or leave it out entirely.
Q: How do I make it sweeter?
A: Use more sugar or simple syrup to taste.
Conclusion
The Elf Mojito is the ultimate holiday cocktail, offering a mix of classic mojito flavors with a festive twist. Whether you’re hosting a party or relaxing at home, this drink will bring joy to your holiday season. Cheers to merry moments and minty magic!
Print
Elf Mojito
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: Holiday
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive twist on the classic mojito, combining fresh mint, lime, and rum with a touch of holiday flavor, perfect for your Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients
- 0–12 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz coconut cream (or regular simple syrup)
- 3 oz cranberry juice (optional for a festive touch)
- Club soda or sparkling water (to top off)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
-
Place fresh mint leaves and lime juice in a glass. Use a muddler to gently press the mint to release its oils.
-
Pour in the rum and midori, giving the glass a gentle stir to combine.
-
Fill the glass with ice and top with soda water to your preference.
-
Finish with a fresh mint leaf and a lime wheel for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less coconut cream/syrup.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace the rum with extra sparkling water or soda.
- To make it extra festive, garnish with a candy cane or red berries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg