Kiwi Mojito Recipe – Few cocktails embody summer as well as a mojito, and adding fresh kiwi takes this classic drink to a whole new level. Sweet, tangy, and bursting with vibrant green color, the kiwi mojito is both eye-catching and incredibly refreshing. The natural sweetness of ripe kiwi blends seamlessly with zesty lime, cooling mint, and a gentle splash of rum, creating a drink that feels tropical and sophisticated all at once.
Unlike overly sugary cocktails, this mojito variation keeps things balanced. The kiwi adds natural fruitiness, the lime juice provides tang, and the sparkling water ensures the drink stays light and bubbly. It’s perfect for barbecues, rooftop gatherings, or even quiet evenings when you want something festive without being heavy.
Recipe Overview
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Cuisine: Cuban-inspired with a tropical twist
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Course: Cocktail / Beverage
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Servings: 2 glasses
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Active Time: 10 minutes
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Resting Time: 5 minutes (optional, for infusion)
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Total Time: ~20–25 minutes
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Calories (per serving): ~160–180 kcal
Equipment Needed
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Cocktail shaker or sturdy mason jar with lid
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Muddler or wooden spoon
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Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother texture)
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Jigger or measuring tool
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Tall glasses (highball or Collins)
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Bar spoon (for stirring)
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Ice cubes
Ingredients
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2 ripe kiwis, peeled and sliced
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6–8 fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
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2 oz white rum (per serving)
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1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice (about half a lime)
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1 tablespoon simple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
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Sparkling water or soda water (to top)
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Ice cubes
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Garnish: kiwi slice, lime wedge, and mint sprig
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the kiwi
Peel and slice the ripe kiwis. Place the slices at the bottom of a cocktail shaker or mixing glass.
Step 2: Muddle with mint
Add fresh mint leaves and simple syrup (or honey) to the shaker. Use a muddler or wooden spoon to gently press the kiwi and mint together. The goal is to release the kiwi juice and mint oils without shredding the leaves too much.
Step 3: Add rum and lime
Pour in the white rum and freshly squeezed lime juice. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until chilled.
Step 4: Strain and build
Strain the mixture into tall glasses filled with fresh ice. For a rustic look, you can pour without straining to keep kiwi seeds and pulp in the drink.
Step 5: Top with sparkle
Finish by topping each glass with chilled sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Add a slice of kiwi, a wedge of lime, and a sprig of mint for an elegant presentation. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | ~170 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Sugars | 18 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Alcohol |
~14 g (1.5 oz white rum)
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Flavor Profile
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Kiwi: Adds sweet-tart fruitiness and vibrant green color.
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Mint: Refreshing and cooling, balancing the tropical notes.
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Lime: Brings zesty acidity that cuts through sweetness.
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Rum: Smooth, light base that enhances the fruit flavors.
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Sparkling water: Keeps the drink bubbly and crisp.
Variations
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Kiwi Coconut Mojito: Add a splash of coconut water or coconut rum for a tropical vibe.
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Mocktail Kiwi Mojito: Omit rum and increase sparkling water for a non-alcoholic refresher.
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Frozen Kiwi Mojito: Blend kiwi, lime, and mint with ice for a slushy version.
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Kiwi Strawberry Mojito: Add muddled strawberries for extra fruit complexity.
Serving Suggestions
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Summer BBQs: Perfect alongside grilled seafood, chicken skewers, or veggie platters.
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Brunch: Serve with fruit salads, pastries, or avocado toast for a light pairing.
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Evening cocktails: A refreshing option for rooftop hangouts or date nights.
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Tropical parties: Its bright color and lively taste make it a great signature drink.
Tips for Best Results
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Use ripe kiwis: Softer kiwis are juicier and naturally sweeter, making the cocktail vibrant.
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Don’t over-muddle mint: Crushing leaves too hard can make the drink bitter.
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Adjust sweetness: Taste before serving—if the kiwi is very sweet, reduce the syrup.
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Serve immediately: Mojitos taste best fresh when the mint and kiwi are still bright.
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Play with rum: While white rum is classic, try aged rum for a deeper, spiced note.
Why You’ll Love It
The kiwi mojito is more than just a cocktail—it’s a tropical escape in a glass. With its striking green color, refreshing fizz, and perfect balance of sweet, tart, and minty flavors, it’s a drink that always feels festive. Best of all, it’s simple to make at home with just a handful of ingredients
