When I first whipped these mojitos up, I wanted something that was as refreshing as it was easy to make. I mean, who wants to be stuck in the kitchen when there’s sunshine to soak up? Plus, I’m a firm believer that the best recipes are ones you can pass around to others. This one, in particular, hits the nail on the head. It’s fruity, it’s fizzy, and it’s bound to impress even the busiest bees among us.
I remember my kids running around the yard while the adults sipped on these beauties, enjoying the mingling flavors of tangy cranberry and the gentle bite of ginger. Everyone was asking for seconds and even thirds—now isn’t that a sign of success? From the vibrant hue of blood orange soda to the aromatic mint, every sip was like a comforting buzz of happiness. And here’s the best part: this recipe is easier than slicing pie.
So why not take a dive into this refreshing world of mojitos? The ingredients are pretty straightforward, and you might already have most of them hanging around your pantry or fridge. Plus, a homemade ginger simple syrup brings that extra zing, making this drink absolutely party-ready. Trust me, once you try it, this mojito will find its way into your top picks for go-to refreshments.
Whether it’s celebrating milestones, sharing old memories, or just catching up with your besties, this drink is the perfect companion. You’ll love how it effortlessly blends together flavors that dance on your tongue, creating memories you’ll cherish. Let’s dig in and see how we can bring this delightful concoction to life! Ready? Let’s get mojito-making!
How to Make Blood Orange Ginger Cranberry Mojito
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves, lightly packed
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
- 8 ounces white rum
- Blood Orange Soda (San Pellegrino recommended)
- 1 cup unsweetened pure cranberry juice
- Ice cubes
- Mint leaves, lime wedges, and fresh blueberries for decoration
- Ginger Simple Syrup:
- 1 knob of fresh ginger, about 2” in size, peeled
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- Sugar Rim:
- Lime wedge
- Brown sugar
- Garnish: Fresh mint, cranberries, and bits of candied ginger
Directions
- First things first, let’s get started on that Ginger Simple Syrup. Combine ginger, sugar, and water in a small pot over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely—takes about two minutes. Once done, allow it to cool down fully.
- For your sugar rims, rub a lime wedge around the rims of each glass. Then, dip these rims into brown sugar, helping it to coat nicely. Set them aside while you prepare the drinks.
- Time to make the mojitos! Distribute the mint leaves and lime wedges evenly among four sturdy highball glasses. Add roughly two tablespoons of your cooled simple syrup to each glass. Using a muddler, crush them together until you release the minty oils and the lime’s juices.
- Next, fill the glasses with ice cubes. Pour in the rum and top each glass with Blood Orange Soda until nearly full. Add a splash (or two tablespoons) of cranberry juice on top. You can choose to leave the lovely layers or stir gently to mix the flavors.
- Finally, garnish with fresh mint, some cranberries, and candied ginger pieces to bring that extra special touch. These mojitos are ready to refresh your guests!
Storing Suggestion
It’s best to serve these mojitos fresh to maintain their fizzy quality and vibrant flavors. However, you can prepare the ginger simple syrup ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a nice stir before using!
Cooking Tips
To really dial up the freshness of these mojitos, consider using freshly squeezed lime juice instead of wedges for a more uniform flavor. If blood orange soda isn’t available, a good orange-flavored alternative will work just as well. Remember, the key is to maintain the fruity, refreshing nature of the drink.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these mojitos in tall glasses with plenty of ice to keep them cold. They pair wonderfully with light appetizers like cheese platters, seafood, or even a simple charcuterie board. For an added touch, serve alongside a sparkling water to refresh the palate.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find blood orange soda, a regular orange soda or even a mix of orange juice with club soda makes a great substitute. For those avoiding alcohol, swap out the rum for some more soda or sparkling water for a delightful virgin mojito version.
Seasonal Variations
As the seasons change, customize this mojito by incorporating seasonal fruits like raspberries in spring or a splash of pomegranate juice in fall. Adding these fresh elements can breathe new life into this refreshing drink all year round.
Allergen Information
This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for many diet preferences. If using a store-bought soda, check the label for any potential allergens. For a vegan version, ensure the sugar used is vegan-friendly as some brands process sugar using bone char.
FAQ
Can I prepare the mojitos in advance?
While it’s best to prepare and enjoy mojitos fresh, you can get a head start by making the ginger syrup a day or two in advance. Store it in the fridge and prepare the rest of the drink right before serving to keep that fizzy appeal alive.
Can I make this mojito alcohol-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the rum and replace it with a bit more blood orange soda or sparkling water. The drink will still be refreshing and full of flavor, perfect for those preferring a non-alcoholic option.
What can I use instead of blood orange soda?
If blood orange soda isn’t available, you can substitute it with regular orange soda, or a combination of orange juice and club soda. This maintains the fruity base while offering the same refreshing taste.
Is there a way to reduce the sugar content in this drink?
To reduce the sugar content, cut down on the sugar used in the ginger syrup or use a sugar substitute like stevia. Additionally, ensure to opt for non-sweetened cranberry juice to keep the drink as light as possible.
How long does the ginger simple syrup last?
The homemade ginger simple syrup should last in the refrigerator for about a week when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating and give it a gentle shake each time before use.
Can I add different fruits for garnish?
Absolutely! Feel free to garnish with any berries or citrus fruits you have on hand. Fresh or frozen cranberries, strawberries, or orange slices can make delightful alternatives or additions, enhancing the overall look and taste.
Blood Orange Ginger Cranberry Mojito
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves lightly packed
- 2 limes cut into wedges
- 8 ounces white rum
- 1 cup unsweetened pure cranberry juice
- Ice cubes
- Mint leaves, lime wedges, and fresh blueberries for decoration
- 1 knob fresh ginger about 2 inches, peeled
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 wedge lime for sugar rim
- brown sugar for sugar rim
- Fresh mint, cranberries, and bits of candied ginger for garnish
Instructions
- To prepare the Ginger Simple Syrup, combine ginger, sugar, and water in a small pot over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool completely.
- For the sugar rims, rub a lime wedge around the rim of each glass and dip them into brown sugar to coat. Set the glasses aside.
- In four highball glasses, distribute mint leaves and lime wedges. Add about two tablespoons of the cooled ginger syrup to each glass and muddle together to release the mint and lime juices.
- Fill each glass with ice cubes. Add the rum and top with Blood Orange Soda. Finish with a splash of cranberry juice, stirring gently if desired.
- Garnish the mojitos with fresh mint, cranberries, and candied ginger pieces. Serve and enjoy!
