White Christmas Mojitos are a fresh and festive twist on a classic mojito, perfect for holiday gatherings. With crisp lime, cool mint leaves, and a splash of coconut rum or white rum, these drinks feel like a snowy getaway in a glass. The light fizz from club soda adds the perfect sparkle, making them both refreshing and fun to sip.
I love making White Christmas Mojitos when I want something a little different for holiday parties. They’re bright and easy to drink, with just enough sweetness and that lovely minty flavor that everyone recognizes and loves. Plus, adding a little coconut rum makes me feel like I’m celebrating on a tropical island, even when it’s freezing outside.
One of my favorite ways to serve these is in clear glasses with extra mint sprigs and a lime wheel for garnish—it makes them look super festive. I also like to prepare the lime and mint mixture ahead of time, so when guests arrive, I just add rum, soda, and ice. It’s an easy way to keep the party going without spending too much time mixing drinks.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for White Christmas Mojitos
Mint leaves: Fresh mint is essential for that classic mojito taste. If fresh isn’t available, frozen mint can work, but it won’t be as bright. Always pick leaves that are vibrant and green for the best aroma.
Lime: Fresh lime juice gives the mojito its bright, tangy kick. Bottled lime juice can be a quick fix, but fresh juice makes a big flavor difference. You can also use lemon if lime is hard to find, though the taste will change slightly.
Sugar or simple syrup: I like simple syrup because it blends more easily and won’t leave grainy bits. For a healthier option, try agave syrup or honey, but adjust the amount to taste as they are sweeter.
White rum or coconut rum: White rum is traditional here. Coconut rum gives a lovely creamy, tropical note that pairs great with the coconut cream. If you want a non-alcoholic version, try coconut water or white grape juice for a mild flavor.
Coconut cream or coconut milk: Coconut cream thickens the drink and adds the “white” look. Light coconut milk works too but is less rich. For a dairy-free version, coconut options are best; avoid dairy cream if you want to keep it traditional and light.
Club soda or sparkling water: This adds the fizz. Use plain club soda to keep flavors clean, or flavored sparkling water (like lime) for a twist, just keep it subtle so it doesn’t overpower the mint and lime.
Pomegranate seeds: These add a festive red pop and a slight tart crunch. You can substitute with fresh cranberries (lightly crushed), red currants, or skip entirely if unavailable.
How Can I Muddle Mint and Lime Without Making It Bitter?
Muddling is important to release flavors without making your mojito bitter. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a sturdy glass or cocktail shaker that won’t break.
- Add mint leaves and lime wedges first, then sugar or simple syrup.
- Press down gently with a muddler or wooden spoon—don’t crush hard. The goal is to bruise the mint leaves to release oils, not tear them into pieces.
- Muddle the lime just enough to release the juice without smashing the bitter pith.
- Stop as soon as you smell a fresh minty and citrus aroma. Over-muddling can make the drink taste bitter.
- When in doubt, muddle in short bursts rather than continuously.
Practicing this will help you create a refreshing mojito with bright, balanced flavors every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mint muddler or the back of a wooden spoon – I use it to gently bruise the mint and release its aroma without tearing the leaves.
- Cocktail shaker or sturdy glass – perfect for mixing the rum, coconut cream, and lime juice smoothly.
- Bar spoon or straw – helps stir everything together without losing the fizz or mint leaves.
- Tall glasses – ideal for showcasing the layered look and ample space for ice and garnishes.
- Strainer (optional) – handy if you prefer a smooth drink without mint bits or lime pulp.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap coconut rum for flavored or spiced rum—adds a different vibe, more tropical or warm depending on the spice.
- Add fresh fruit like berries, pineapple, or kiwi—these bring extra color and sweetness to your cocktail.
- Use flavored sparkling water instead of plain club soda—try lime or cherry for a fruity twist.
- Top with a splash of coconut-flavored soda or tonic—adds a bit more sparkle and coconut flavor.
White Christmas Mojitos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 fresh mint leaves, plus extra sprigs for garnish
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (plus extra slices for garnish)
- 2 tsp sugar (or simple syrup)
- 4 oz white rum (or coconut white rum for extra tropical flavor)
- 1 cup crushed ice
- 1/2 cup club soda or sparkling water
- 2 tbsp coconut cream or coconut milk (to give the white, creamy look)
- Pomegranate seeds for garnish (adds festive color and a hint of tartness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare, so it’s quick and easy to whip up a festive drink whenever you’re ready to celebrate. No extra waiting or chilling time needed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Mint and Lime:
Place the fresh mint leaves, lime wedges, and sugar or simple syrup into a sturdy glass. Gently muddle them together using a muddler or the back of a spoon. Be careful not to crush the mint leaves too much—you just want to release their oils and the lime juice.
2. Add the Rum and Coconut Cream:
Pour in the white rum (or coconut white rum) and the coconut cream or coconut milk. Stir well with a spoon to combine everything nicely.
3. Add Ice and Club Soda:
Fill the glass almost to the top with crushed ice. Then, top off the drink with club soda or sparkling water. Give it a gentle stir to mix all the flavors together.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by adding extra mint sprigs and a generous sprinkle of pomegranate seeds on top. Add a lime slice on the side for a lovely holiday touch, and serve immediately with a straw.
Enjoy your refreshing and festive White Christmas Mojitos — perfect for holiday fun!
Can I Use Frozen Mint Leaves?
Yes, you can use frozen mint if fresh isn’t available, but fresh mint gives the best aroma and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and gently pat dry before muddling to avoid extra water in the drink.
Can I Make White Christmas Mojitos Without Alcohol?
Absolutely! Substitute the rum with coconut water or a splash of white grape juice for a refreshing mocktail version. Keep the coconut cream and other ingredients the same for a creamy and festive taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Mojito Ingredients?
Keep any leftover coconut cream, simple syrup, and fresh lime juice refrigerated in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Mint leaves are best stored wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag in the fridge to stay fresh longer.
Can I Prepare These Mojitos in Advance?
You can muddle the mint, lime, and sugar mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Just add rum, coconut cream, ice, and club soda right before serving to keep it fresh and fizzy.