A refreshing mojito with an Italian twist: limoncello, fresh lemon and plenty of mint make this cocktail bright, fragrant and perfect for sunny afternoons.
Who doesn’t love a great cocktail? I’m a fan of simple, classic drinks—like an Aperol Spritz or a floral Cointreau Rose—because they taste fantastic and use just a few affordable ingredients.
How is this Mojito different?
This version keeps the fresh mint and rum of a classic mojito but swaps limes for juicy lemons and adds limoncello for extra lemon character and sweetness. The result is a bright, aromatic cocktail that’s ideal for warm afternoons or anytime you want something light and zingy.
How to Make a Limoncello Mojito – Step by Step
Place the mint leaves, sugar and lemon wedges in a large cocktail shaker. Muddle thoroughly, pressing the lemon and mint to release juice and oils.
Add the limoncello and the rum, then fill the shaker with ice. Shake until well chilled. Divide the mixture between two highball glasses filled with ice, top with soda water and garnish with extra mint and a lemon wedge if you like.
Which rum to use?
Use a white rum for its clean flavour and pale colour. Dark rum will alter the appearance and make the drink darker and less crisp.
Snacks to serve with cocktails
Cocktails pair wonderfully with small bites. Try dips, crostini with cured meats and cheeses, or fried stuffed olives for easy party nibbles that complement the bright lemon flavours.
Top tips for making a Limoncello Mojito
- Choose a good-quality limoncello—homemade is best. Some cheaper commercial options use artificial flavourings and don’t taste as fresh.
- Fill the glass with ice to keep the cocktail well chilled as you sip.
- Muddling the mint and lemon releases the essential oils and juice. Use a wooden pestle or muddler rather than forcing the fruit with a metal spoon to avoid damaging glassware.
- To make a non-alcoholic version, replace the rum and limoncello with a fizzy lemonade (such as a quality limonata) and add more mint. It will be bright and refreshing without alcohol.
More cocktails you might enjoy
- Blood Orange Cocktail – Gin & Thyme
- Sparkling Limoncello Cocktail
- Cointreau Rose Cocktail with Strawberries
- Aperol Spritz
If you try this Limoncello Mojito or any other recipe, let me know in the comments—feedback is always welcome!
Step By Step Photos Above
Most recipes include step-by-step photos and helpful tips to help you get it right first time.
Limoncello Mojito Cocktail
By Emily
Ingredients
- 3 large sprigs fresh mint, plus extra for garnish
- 2 shots limoncello
- 2 shots white rum
- soda water for topping
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Ice
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker or large glass
- Cocktail muddler or wooden pestle
Instructions
- Put the mint leaves, sugar and lemon wedges into a large cocktail shaker and muddle, pressing until most of the juice is released.
- Add the limoncello and rum, then fill the shaker with ice. Shake until thoroughly mixed and ice cold.
- Divide the cocktail between two highball glasses filled with ice, top with soda water and garnish with mint and lemon if desired.
Notes
- Use good-quality limoncello—homemade is ideal. Some cheap store-bought varieties rely on artificial flavouring and lack freshness.
- Fill the glass with ice to keep the drink cool as you enjoy it.
- Muddling releases flavour from the mint and lemon. If you don’t have a muddler, use a wooden pestle to avoid chipping glassware.
- To make a virgin version, replace the rum and limoncello with a fizzy lemonade (such as a quality limonata) and add extra mint for a non-alcoholic, refreshing drink.
Helpful Info for All Recipes
- I use extra virgin olive oil in recipes unless stated otherwise.
- When using canned or jarred tomatoes I recommend trusted brands for best flavour.
- All vegetable references assume medium size unless noted.
- Recipes are developed and tested using a fan (convection) oven.
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 22 g |
Sodium: 1 mg |
Potassium: 74 mg |
Fiber: 1 g |
Sugar: 18 g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be treated as an estimate.
Did you try this recipe?
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