White Christmas Mojitos are a fun and festive twist on the classic mojito, perfect for celebrating the holiday season. They mix fresh mint, zesty lime, and a splash of white rum with a touch of holiday magic, making them refreshing but with a cool, wintery feel. The hint of sparkling water adds a lovely fizz that livens up the whole drink.
I love making these mojitos when friends come over for a holiday get-together because they feel a little special but aren’t too complicated to whip up. One of my favorite parts is muddling the mint and lime just right so all those fresh flavors really pop with every sip. Plus, adding a bit of a white, snowy touch—like coconut or simple syrup—gives it that festive vibe that’s so fun during the holidays.
Serving these mojitos in clear glasses with extra mint leaves and a lime wedge on top instantly makes the drink look picture-perfect. I often enjoy them by the fire or while listening to Christmas music—it just puts me in a good mood. If you’re planning a holiday party, these White Christmas Mojitos are a cheerful way to toast with friends and family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint is crucial for that bright, cooling flavor. If you can’t find fresh mint, a small amount of mint extract can work but add it sparingly to avoid overpowering the drink.
Lime: Lime wedges bring zesty citrus that balances the sweetness. If limes aren’t available, fresh lemon is a good substitute but the taste will be a bit different.
White Rum: White rum keeps the mojito light and clean. You can swap it for vodka if you want a milder alcohol flavor or make it non-alcoholic by skipping it altogether and adding extra sparkling water.
Coconut Cream or Milk: This adds the creamy ‘white’ twist perfect for the holiday feel. If you want less richness, use coconut milk or even plain cream. For a dairy-free option, canned coconut cream works best.
Pomegranate Seeds: These provide a festive red pop and a bit of tartness. Fresh or frozen seeds are great; if unavailable, red cranberries or even red currants are good alternatives.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Muddling Mint and Lime?
Muddling mint and lime correctly is key to a fresh, balanced mojito. The goal is to release the oils and juice without tearing the mint leaves into pieces. Here’s how:
- Place mint leaves and lime wedges with sugar in the glass.
- Use a muddler or the back of a spoon with gentle pressure—press and twist a few times.
- Avoid overly aggressive crushing, to keep mint from becoming bitter.
- Make sure the sugar helps grind the ingredients slightly, releasing more flavor.
- This technique helps mix and soften the lime juice and mint oils for a perfectly fresh base.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sturdy glass – I recommend a tall, clear glass to showcase the pretty layers and garnishes.
- Muddler or back of a spoon – essential for gently crushing the mint and lime for full flavor.
- Measuring spoons and jigger – for adding the right amount of sugar and rum without guesswork.
- Soup spoon or stirring stick – helps mix the coconut cream and other ingredients smoothly.
- Straw – for sipping and enjoying the fizzy, refreshing drink.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch up the fruit: Add fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for extra sweetness and color.
- Use different spirits: Swap rum for vodka or gin for a different flavor profile.
- Enhance the creaminess: Add a splash of coconut liqueur for a richer, tropical taste.
- Spice it up: Mix in a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to give it a cozy, holiday touch.
White Christmas Mojitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (reserve a few slices for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons white sugar or simple syrup
- 2 ounces white rum
- ½ cup coconut cream or coconut milk (for the “white” twist)
- Crushed ice
- Soda water or sparkling water, to top off
- Pomegranate seeds (or red cranberries) for garnish
- Lime slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This mojito recipe takes about 5–10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to muddle the ingredients, mix the drink, and add garnishes. Perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Mint and Lime:
Place 10 fresh mint leaves and 3–4 lime wedges into a sturdy glass. Add 2 tablespoons of white sugar or simple syrup on top. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently press and twist the mixture to release the lime juice and mint oils. Be careful not to shred the mint leaves, just lightly muddle to get all those fresh flavors.
2. Add Ice, Rum, and Coconut Cream:
Fill the glass halfway with crushed ice. Pour in 2 ounces of white rum, then add ½ cup of coconut cream or coconut milk for that creamy White Christmas touch. Stir gently to combine everything well.
3. Top with Soda and Garnish:
Add more crushed ice to fill the glass, then top it with a splash of soda water or sparkling water to add fizz. Garnish your mojito with fresh mint sprigs, a couple slices of lime, and a handful of bright red pomegranate seeds or cranberries. Serve immediately with a straw and enjoy your festive, refreshing White Christmas Mojito!
Can I Use Coconut Milk Instead of Coconut Cream?
Yes! Coconut milk works well if you prefer a lighter, less creamy texture. Just note your mojito will be a bit less rich, but still tasty and festive!
How Do I Store Leftover Mojitos?
Mojitos are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Stir gently before serving again. Avoid adding soda water until just before drinking to keep the fizz.
Can I Make This Mojito Non-Alcoholic?
Absolutely! Simply skip the rum and add extra soda water or sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail. The mint, lime, and coconut flavor will still make it taste wonderful.
What’s the Best Way to Muddle Mint and Lime?
Gently press and twist with a muddler or spoon—don’t shred the mint leaves—to release fresh oils and juice without bitterness. Be patient and use light pressure to get the perfect balance of flavors.
