This Basil Mojito is a fresh, herbaceous twist on the classic cocktail. Made with homemade basil simple syrup, white rum and fresh lime juice, it’s crisp, refreshing and perfect for summer.
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About this basil mojito recipe
I first got the idea for a basil mojito after trying a basil-infused rum from a local distillery. The flavor was so unique and delicious that I couldn’t stop thinking about it, and I knew I wanted to recreate something similar at home.
Instead of infusing an entire bottle of rum, I made a batch of basil simple syrup. It gives every cocktail a vibrant basil flavor and makes mixing drinks super easy since there’s no need to muddle basil. Just add the syrup, rum, lime juice and club soda, and you’ve got a cocktail that tastes like summer.
This has easily become my favorite drink of the summer. It’s light, refreshing and a fun way to enjoy fresh basil beyond pesto and pasta.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Homemade basil syrup does the work for you. Every mojito gets fresh basil flavor without muddling herbs into each glass.
- It’s refreshing. Lime, basil and rum create a crisp, clean cocktail ideal for warm weather.
- It makes entertaining easy. Make the basil syrup ahead of time, then mix cocktails in just a few minutes.
- Summer basil won’t go to waste. This cocktail is a delicious way to use up the fresh basil in your garden.
- It’s a twist on the classic. While a classic mojito gets its signature flavor from mint leaves, this version swaps in basil for a fresh, herbaceous take on the summertime favorite cocktail.
Ingredients & essentials
👇 For full measurements and step-by-step instructions, scroll down to the printable recipe card. It’s all there waiting for you!
Homemade basil syrup is what makes this mojito stand out. It adds fresh basil flavor to every sip without the extra step of muddling herbs into each cocktail. (If you don’t want to make it, you can use plain simple syrup and fresh basil instead!)
Light rum is the traditional choice for mojitos. Its clean flavor lets the basil and lime shine. Fresh lime juice adds the bright citrus flavor every mojito needs.
Club soda gives the cocktail its signature fizz, while a lime wedge and fresh basil sprig make simple, fragrant garnishes.
To make this recipe, you’ll need a jigger, a Collins or highball glass * and a bar spoon * for stirring.
Best rum for mojitos
Light rum is my favorite choice for a basil mojito. Its light flavor lets the basil syrup and fresh lime juice take center stage.
If you prefer a cocktail with a little more richness, you can also try a lightly aged rum. It will add subtle notes of vanilla and oak.
Don’t miss Rum 101 where you can learn more about which bottles to buy.
Instructions
Making a Basil Mojito is pretty simple. You’ll start by making simple syrup on the stove. From there, you can mix the drink up right in the glass or in a cocktail shaker *.
👇 For full measurements and step-by-step instructions, scroll down to the printable recipe card. It’s all there waiting for you!
- First, make the basil simple syrup. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir until sugar has dissolved. Do not let boil. Remove from heat and add the basil leaves. Let rest for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Leave in longer for a stronger flavor. Discard the basil.
- In a collins glass * or highball glass, add the basil leaves and simple syrup.
- Add the lime juice and rum. (If using plain syrup, muddle to release the oils of the basil leaves.)
- Top with ice cubes, filling the glass all the way. Top with club soda. Stir gently. Garnish with a straw, lime wedge and mint sprig.
Tips & tricks
- Chill the basil syrup before making your cocktail for the most refreshing drink.
- For an even stronger basil flavor, garnish with a basil sprig and gently clap it between your hands before adding it to the glass. This helps release the herb’s natural oils.
- Adjust the sweetness to your taste. If you prefer a tarter mojito, use a little less basil syrup. For a sweeter cocktail, add a splash more.
Serving suggestions
This basil mojito is a natural pairing for warm-weather meals. Serve it with grilled chicken, seafood, burgers or your favorite summer appetizers. I love these easy charcuterie cups or some edamame hummus and pita chips or veggies for dipping.
It’s also a refreshing cocktail for backyard barbecues, happy hour or patio dinners with friends. Leftover basil syrup? Try it in our basil julep recipe.
FAQ
Yes. Muddle a few fresh basil leaves in the bottom of the glass, add plain simple syrup, then continue with the recipe as directed. The basil syrup method is a little faster and gives every cocktail consistent basil flavor.
Absolutely. Store the basil syrup in the refrigerator until you’re ready to mix cocktails.
Yes. Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you’d like to make and combine everything except the club soda in a pitcher. Add the club soda just before serving.
Yes. Omit the rum and top the basil syrup and lime juice with extra club soda for a refreshing basil lime spritzer. Alternatively, substitute a clear zero-proof spirit for the rum.
Basil Mojito
ingredients
Basil Simple Syrup
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- 20 leaves fresh basil
Basil Mojito
- 8-10 leaves fresh basil
- 1 ounce basil syrup or 1 ounce plain simple syrup
- 1 ounce lime juice
- 2 ounces light rum
- 1-2 ounces club soda
- 1 wedge fresh lime for garnish
- 1 sprig fresh basil for garnish
instructions
Basil Simple Syrup
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir until sugar has dissolved. Do not let boil.½ cup water, ½ cup sugar
- Remove from heat and add the basil leaves. Let rest for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Leave in longer for a stronger flavor. Discard the basil.20 leaves fresh basil
- Store in a mason jar for up to one week.
Basil Mojito
- In a collins glass * or highball glass *, add the basil leaves and simple syrup. If using plain syrup, muddle to release the oils of the basil leaves.8-10 leaves fresh basil, 1 ounce basil syrup
- Add the lime juice and rum. Top with ice cubes, filling the glass all the way. Top with club soda. Stir gently.1 ounce lime juice, 2 ounces light rum, 1-2 ounces club soda
- Garnish with a straw, lime wedge and basil sprig.1 wedge fresh lime , 1 sprig fresh basil
notes
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