Cranberry Spice Mojito: A Festive, Tart, and Minty Cocktail

Introduction

When it comes to holiday cocktails, you don’t have to settle for just the usual warm drinks. Sometimes, you want something bright, refreshing, and full of festive flavor—and that’s exactly where this Cranberry Spice Mojito shines. This vibrant holiday cocktail blends tart cranberries, cooling mint, warming winter spices, and a splash of white rum for a drink that’s as refreshing as it is seasonal.

I first made this Cranberry Spice Mojito at a holiday party, when I wanted a drink that felt festive and wintery, but still light and refreshing. Traditional mojitos are perfect for summer, but with the addition of cranberries, cinnamon, and a hint of clove, this version takes on a whole new holiday personality. The result? A minty, tart, slightly spiced cocktail that’s perfect for sipping all season long.

This Cranberry Spice Mojito is easy to make, naturally flavorful, and perfect for holiday entertaining. Whether you’re mixing drinks at a Christmas party, enjoying a festive night in, or looking for a cocktail that balances sweetness with a zesty tartness, this minty, spiced mojito is the ultimate holiday refreshment.

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The Perfect Holiday Mojito

This Cranberry Spice Mojito is zesty, fresh, and full of holiday spice, making it a must-have cocktail for winter celebrations. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Cranberries add a tart, festive pop of flavor.
• Fresh mint keeps it light and refreshing.
• Cinnamon and cloves add a warm, spiced depth.
• White rum gives it a smooth, boozy kick.
• Lime juice brightens up the flavors with a citrusy tang.
• It’s easy to make in single servings or as a batch cocktail!

Whether you’re looking for a unique Christmas cocktail, a winter twist on a classic mojito, or just a drink that’s festive and refreshing, this Cranberry Spice Mojito is the perfect way to celebrate the season!

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Picture Gallery

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Why Cranberries, Mint, and Spices Work So Well Together

Cranberries: The Tart, Fruity Base

Cranberries provide a naturally tart and slightly sweet flavor, making them the perfect contrast to the sweetness of the mojito’s sugar and rum.

Mint: The Fresh, Cooling Twist

Fresh mint leaves bring a bright, refreshing element to the drink, balancing the tartness of the cranberries and the warmth of the spices.

Cinnamon & Cloves: The Warm, Cozy Spice

A hint of cinnamon and cloves adds a subtle holiday warmth, giving this mojito a wintery depth that makes it stand out from traditional versions.

White Rum: The Smooth, Classic Kick

White rum keeps the drink light, smooth, and slightly sweet, allowing the cranberry and spice flavors to shine.

Lime Juice: The Citrus Balance

Fresh lime juice adds a zesty, slightly sour brightness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

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How to Make a Cranberry Spice Mojito

Ingredients

For the Cranberry Spice Syrup:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Mojito:

• 6 fresh mint leaves
• ½ lime, cut into wedges
• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz cranberry spice syrup (from above)
• Club soda or sparkling water
• Ice cubes

For Garnish:

• Fresh cranberries
• Mint sprigs
• Lime wedges
• Cinnamon stick (optional, for stirring)

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cranberry Spice Syrup

1. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Once the cranberries start to burst (about 5 minutes), remove from heat.
4. Stir in vanilla extract, then strain the syrup into a bowl, discarding the solids.
5. Let cool before using.

Step 2: Muddle the Mint & Lime

1. In a highball glass, add mint leaves and lime wedges.
2. Muddle them gently using a muddler or the back of a spoon, releasing the lime juice and mint oils.

Step 3: Add the Rum & Syrup

1. Pour in 2 oz white rum and 1 oz cranberry spice syrup.
2. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Fill with Ice & Sparkling Water

1. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
2. Top with club soda or sparkling water, stirring gently.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Garnish with fresh cranberries, a sprig of mint, and a cinnamon stick.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, spiced, and festive flavors of the season!

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make this mojito non-alcoholic?

Yes! Just omit the rum and add extra club soda or ginger beer for a refreshing holiday mocktail.

2. What’s the best rum to use?

Use a light, smooth white rum such as:

• Bacardi Superior (classic and versatile)
• Havana Club 3-Year (slightly fruity and well-balanced)
• Flor de Caña 4-Year (light and crisp)

3. Can I make a large batch for a party?

Yes! To make a pitcher for 6-8 servings, mix:

• 1 ½ cups white rum
• ¾ cup cranberry spice syrup
• 3 limes, cut into wedges
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves
• Club soda to top
• Stir well and serve over ice!

4. How can I make this mojito even more festive?

• Add a splash of cranberry juice for extra tartness.
• Use ginger beer instead of club soda for a spiced kick.
• Rim the glass with sugar and crushed dried mint for extra holiday flair.

5. Can I make the cranberry spice syrup in advance?

Yes! Store the syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

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Variations

• Cranberry Ginger Mojito: Use ginger beer instead of club soda for a spicy twist.
• Spiked Cranberry Mojito: Add a splash of orange liqueur (like Cointreau) for extra citrus depth.
• Frozen Cranberry Mojito: Blend all ingredients with ice for a frozen version.
• Holiday Pomegranate Mojito: Swap cranberries for pomegranate seeds and juice for a different festive take.
• Rum & Cranberry Punch: Make a big batch and serve in a punch bowl with floating orange slices.

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When to Serve It

Christmas Parties & Holiday Gatherings

A fun, festive cocktail that adds a bright pop of color to any celebration.

New Year’s Eve Toasts

A refreshing alternative to champagne with a sparkling, bubbly finish.

Winter Girls’ Night or Cozy Date Night

A light and fruity cocktail perfect for sipping while watching holiday movies.

Brunch or Afternoon Drinks

Pairs beautifully with Christmas brunch or holiday appetizers.

Pairing with Holiday Dishes

Pairs well with roast turkey, cranberry sauce, or spiced desserts.

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Conclusion

This Cranberry Spice Mojito is a refreshing, tart, and slightly spiced holiday cocktail, blending zesty lime, cool mint, tart cranberries, and warming cinnamon into a drink that’s as festive as it is delicious. Whether you enjoy it at a Christmas party, on New Year’s Eve, or just as a fun winter cocktail, this mojito is guaranteed to bring holiday cheer!

Try it out, customize it to your liking, and let me know how you love it! Cheers to a minty, spicy, and cranberry-filled holiday season! 🍹🎄❄️