Nothing beats the first sip of a perfectly chilled mojito on a hot summer day—except maybe when that mojito has a playful kiwi twist! I still remember my first kiwi mojito at a backyard barbecue last July. The moment that sweet-tart kiwi flavor hit my tongue, mingling with the fresh mint and zesty lime, I was hooked. It’s like someone took all the best parts of summer and put them in a glass. Now it’s my go-to drink whenever I want something refreshing with just the right kick. The bright green color alone makes me happy, and that burst of tropical kiwi flavor? Pure sunshine in liquid form.
Why You’ll Love This Kiwi Mojito
This kiwi mojito checks all the boxes for the perfect summer sip. First, that refreshing combo of tropical kiwi and mint will cool you down in seconds—seriously, it’s like air conditioning for your taste buds! Second, it couldn’t be easier to make. You probably have most ingredients already, and no fancy equipment needed. My favorite part? You can make it boozy with rum or keep it light with extra club soda for a mocktail—everyone gets to enjoy. Plus, that vibrant green color just screams summer in a glass. One sip, and you’ll be hooked!
Kiwi Mojito Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference with this kiwi mojito. Here’s what you’ll need for that perfect balance of sweet, tart, and refreshing:
- 2 ripe kiwis – peeled and sliced (trust me, the riper they are, the sweeter your drink will be)
- 10 fresh mint leaves – plus a few extra for that Insta-worthy garnish
- 2 tbsp white sugar – adjust to your sweet tooth’s desire
- 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tbsp) – roll it first for maximum juice!
- 2 oz white rum (optional) – skip it for a killer mocktail version
- 1 cup club soda – the bubbly magic that brings it all together
- Ice cubes – lots of ’em for that frosty chill
- Lime slices and kiwi slices – because we drink with our eyes first
How to Make a Kiwi Mojito
Alright, let’s make this kiwi mojito magic happen! First, grab your favorite sturdy glass—I like using a highball or a classic mojito glass if I’m feeling fancy. Start by dropping in those juicy kiwi slices, fresh mint leaves, and sugar. Now, here’s where the fun begins: take your muddler (or the back of a wooden spoon in a pinch) and press those ingredients together firmly but gently for about 30 seconds. You want to release all that kiwi juice and minty oils without turning everything into mush!
Next, pour in the lime juice—give it a good squeeze right over the muddled goodness—and add the rum if you’re going for the cocktail version. Give it a quick stir to blend everything beautifully. Fill the glass almost to the top with ice—I like using crushed ice for extra chill factor—then slowly top it off with that bubbly club soda. A gentle stir here blends it all without losing those precious bubbles. Finish with a garnish of fresh kiwi slices and maybe an extra mint sprig because pretty drinks just taste better, don’t they? Sip immediately and feel that summer vibe hit you!
Pro Tip for Muddling
When muddling, press straight down and twist slightly instead of smashing aggressively—this keeps mint leaves intact so they release flavor without turning bitter.
Want another fruity cocktail idea? Check out my apple cider margarita for a seasonal twist that’s just as refreshing!
Kiwi Mojito Variations
One of my favorite things about this kiwi mojito is how easily you can change it up! For a fun mocktail version just skip the rum—my niece loves this fizzy, fruity drink at family BBQs. Want some heat? Add a few thin slices of fresh jalapeño when muddling—the spicy kick balances the kiwi’s sweetness perfectly. Got a blender? Try it frozen by blending all ingredients (minus the soda) with a cup of ice until slushy, then top with bubbles. It’s like a tropical vacation in every sip!
Serving Suggestions for Your Kiwi Mojito
This vibrant kiwi mojito deserves some equally fresh company! I love serving it alongside my plant-powered greens salad bowl—the crisp veggies and tangy dressing pair perfectly with the drink’s tropical sweetness. At parties, I make a big pitcher (just multiply the recipe) and let guests garnish their glasses with extra kiwi slices and mint sprigs. For backyard cookouts, try it with grilled shrimp skewers or fish tacos—the bright flavors cut through rich dishes beautifully. Pro tip: freeze kiwi slices in ice cubes (just drop them in the tray before adding water) for a pretty, functional touch that keeps drinks chilled without diluting them!
Kiwi Mojito FAQs
Can I use frozen kiwi for this mojito?
Absolutely! Frozen kiwi works in a pinch, but fresh is always better. Frozen kiwi tends to get a bit mushy when muddled, and it won’t give you those pretty little flecks in your drink. If you must use frozen, let it thaw slightly first—otherwise, you’ll end up with a kiwi slush at the bottom of your glass!
Can I prep kiwi mojitos ahead for a party?
Totally! I do this all the time—just keep things separate until serving. Muddle the kiwi, mint, and sugar, then store it covered in the fridge. Have your lime juice, rum (if using), and chilled club soda ready to go. When guests arrive, just assemble with ice and bubbles. The mint stays bright, and the flavors stay fresh. Easy peasy!
What’s the best substitute for rum in this recipe?
If you’re not into rum or want a mocktail, vodka works surprisingly well—it lets the kiwi and mint shine. Some folks love coconut rum for a tropical twist! For non-alcoholic versions, just skip the booze altogether and add a splash of ginger ale with the club soda for extra zing. Trust me, no one will miss the alcohol when the flavors pop this much!
Nutritional Information
Nutrition varies based on ingredients and brands, but here’s the gist for this kiwi mojito: about 180 calories and 18g sugar per serving. Perfectly light for summer sipping—though if you’re tracking for weight loss programs, you might skip the sugar swap for a zero-calorie sweetener. Cheers to balance!
More Refreshing Drink Ideas
If this kiwi mojito hit the spot, you’ve got to try my easy autumn sangria next – it’s become our family’s favorite transition-into-fall cocktail. For more thirst-quenching inspiration, I’m constantly pinning new drink ideas (including fun mocktails!) on my Pinterest board. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just want to jazz up your weeknight dinner, there’s always a refreshing pour waiting to be discovered!
PrintKiwi Mojito
A refreshing twist on the classic mojito, featuring fresh kiwi, mint, and citrus for a bright summer drink.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Total Time: 5 min
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Cuban
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
- 10 fresh mint leaves
- 2 tbsp white sugar
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 oz white rum (optional for mocktail)
- 1 cup club soda
- Ice cubes
- Lime slices and kiwi slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a glass, muddle kiwi slices, mint leaves, and sugar until well combined.
- Add lime juice and rum (if using). Stir to mix.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with lime and kiwi slices.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a mocktail, skip the rum and use extra club soda.
- Use ripe kiwis for the best flavor.
- Adjust sugar to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 10
- Fat: 0
- Saturated Fat: 0
- Unsaturated Fat: 0
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 1
- Cholesterol: 0