10 best mint cocktail recipes
From mojitos to a Moscow mule, we've selected our best mint cocktail recipes to try, including alcohol-free mocktails and generous punches to serve a crowd
A sprig of fresh mint can instantly transform a cocktail or a mint drink, whether used as a garnish on the glass or crushed into the drink itself. If you've got a glut of fresh mint you've been growing in the garden or have a bag in the fridge that needs using up, you're cocktail ready.
Some familiar classic cocktails such as a mint julep or mojito are the most commonly known, but there's plenty more options too. Mint flavour doesn't have to just come from fresh herbs either – our grasshopper cocktail recipe uses creme de menthe for bold mint flavour and colour. The aromatic essential oils in fresh mint are handy for making mocktails, packing in the flavour without the alcohol. Read on for our top 10 mint cocktail picks. With a burst of invigorating freshness, these mint alcoholic drinks are the ultimate choice for those looking to elevate their cocktails with a sophisticated twist.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Check out our best passion fruit cocktail recipes or fruity 10 raspberry cocktails, browse our best ever rum recipes or try one of our fruity strawberry cocktail recipes.
1. Mint julep
If you want the mint flavour to shine in your cocktail, then our classic mint julep recipe using just three ingredients should do the trick. Bourbon, plenty of fresh mint and a touch of sugar syrup to sweeten are muddled together to release the mint oils and aroma. Serve over plenty of crushed ice for a strong yet refreshing cocktail.
2. Mojito
Perhaps the most famous mint cocktail is the mojito - a classic blend of lime, mint, sugar and rum, topped up with soda water. If serving a crowd, try our mojito pitcher recipe that serves six and can easily be scaled up. Once you've mastered the classic, we've got plenty of fruity twists on the basic mojito: try our recipes using strawberries, raspberries, grapefruit or tropical mango and pineapple.
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3. Moscow mule
A spring of mint is usually a finishing touch garnishing a Moscow mule rather than crushed into the cocktail itself, but it is still a crucial ingredient – you won't find a Moscow mule without it! The fresh mint and squeeze of lime to finish lift the vodka and ginger beer inside, commonly served in a hammered copper cup.
4. Hugo cocktail
A refreshing, elegant Hugo cocktail is made for sipping in the English sunshine. Fragrant elderflower cordial joins mint, prosecco and soda water for a simple summer spritz.
5. Summer cup mocktail
If you're a fan of Pimms but are steering clear of alcohol, try this summer cup mocktail recipe instead. It's loaded with cucumber, mint and fresh berries just like Pimms but also uses these ingredients to make an alcohol-free fruity syrup that forms the base of the cocktail, topped up with lemonade.
6. Cucumber, mint & melon punch
Make your own cucumber and mint-infused vodka with this punch – you can do this for just 24 hours or up to a week for maximum flavour. Top up with sugar, lime juice, melon balls and sparkling water for a refreshing punch that easily serves 12 people. Also, discover our vodka cucumber lemonade recipe.
7. Grasshopper cocktail
Mint flavour doesn't just have to come from fresh herbs. A grasshopper cocktail gets its vibrant green hue from creme de menthe, a mint liqueur. Cream and white chocolate liqueur join this rich, sweet cocktail that is great for serving at Halloween due to its vivid colour.
8. Caipirinhas with pineapple
A Caiprinha is a traditional Brazilian cocktail usually made with limes, but this recipe gives it a tropical twist with fresh pineapple. The base alcohol is cahaça (you could also use light rum), mixed with muddled fresh pineapple, lime juice and mint.
9. Gin-free G&T
Fresh mint is so full of flavour it can do more than sit on the edge of a glass. If you are avoiding alcohol, have a go at making your own homemade gin alternative in this gin-free G&T recipe. A combination of ingredients including mint, cardamom, cloves, rosemary, tea and more makes a complex liquid that aims to mirror the aromatics of gin. Add tonic, ice, a few more leaves and you're ready to serve!
10. Mezcal & verdita
If you've made all the classics and want to try something new, serve up this unusual mezcal & verdita at your next drinks hour. It's a combination often found on the menu in mezcal or tequila bars: serving up a shot of mezcal alongside a shot of verdita, a vibrant blended mixture of pineapple juice, lime, mint, coriander and fiery jalapeños.
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