Watermelon Mojito recipe

Refreshing, light, and perfect for summer, this Watermelon Mojito recipe is a fruity twist on the classic cocktail. I love how the sweet, juicy watermelon blends with fresh mint and rum, creating a cooling, tropical drink that’s just as good by the pool as it is at a backyard BBQ. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh, fruity twist on a mojito
• Ready in 5 minutes with simple ingredients
• Perfect for summer entertaining
• Easily made into a mocktail, frozen drink, or pitcher
• Light, crisp, and beautifully refreshing

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 chunks seedless watermelon (about ½ cup pureed)
• 1 mint sprig (4–5 leaves for muddling, reserve top for garnish)
• 1 ounce simple syrup
• 1½ ounces white rum
• ½ cup club soda or sparkling water
• Ice (crushed or cubed)
• 1 lime wedge (optional for fresh juice)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon

I start by pureeing seedless watermelon in a food processor or blender. If there are any seeds or pulp, I strain it through a fine mesh sieve for a smoother texture.

Step 2: Muddle the Mint

In a cocktail glass, I muddle the watermelon puree and the lower mint leaves to release their oils and blend the flavors. I like to use a muddler, but the back of a wooden spoon works just as well.

Step 3: Assemble the Drink

I add crushed or cubed ice to the glass, then pour in the simple syrup, white rum, and club soda. I finish with a squeeze of lime for a zesty punch.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

I garnish with the reserved mint tip and a small slice of watermelon. It’s ready to enjoy right away—cold, bubbly, and irresistibly fresh.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

Make It a Mocktail:
I replace the rum with white grape juice, pineapple juice, or apple juice. It still has the sweetness and refreshing flavor without the alcohol.

Make It Frozen:
I blend the watermelon, rum, ice, and simple syrup into a slushy, then pour over muddled mint for a frozen mojito experience.

Make a Pitcher (Serves 8):

• 4 cups pureed seedless watermelon
• 1 cup simple syrup
• 1½ cups white rum
• 4 cups sparkling water or club soda
• Mint and ice to serve

Make It Skinny:
Instead of club soda and syrup, I use Sprite Zero for sweetness and fizz in one.

Storage/Reheating

Watermelon Puree:
I make it up to 2 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Simple Syrup:
I keep it in the fridge for several weeks—great for future cocktails or mocktails.

Assembly:
This drink is best assembled fresh for the fizziest, brightest flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I prep the watermelon puree and simple syrup in advance, but I wait to mix the drink until I’m ready to serve so the soda stays fizzy.

What’s the best rum to use?

I always go with a white rum like Bacardi Silver, Flora de Caña, or Captain Morgan White—smooth and perfect for mojitos.

How do I make this drink stronger or weaker?

To make it stronger, I use a little less club soda. To lighten it up, I add more club soda and reduce the rum slightly.

Can I use bottled watermelon juice?

Yes, it’s a great shortcut. I still muddle it with fresh mint to keep that classic mojito flavor.

Is fresh lime juice necessary?

It’s optional, but I love the zing it adds. Just a little squeeze makes a big difference.

Conclusion

This Watermelon Mojito is the ultimate summer refreshment. It’s easy to make, bursting with juicy watermelon flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether I’m making one for myself or a whole pitcher for friends, it never disappoints. It’s fresh, fun, and a total warm-weather must.

Print