Cinnamon Free Classic Nojito
Fresh, bright, and endlessly refreshing, this alcohol-free mojito-style drink is built on muddled mint, real lime juice, and a quick homemade simple syrup — nothing more, nothing less. That matters more than you might think, because plenty of flavored syrups and cocktail mixes sneak in unexpected spices that can be a real headache to track down on an ingredient label. Making the syrup yourself with just sugar and water takes about two minutes and puts you completely in control of what goes into the glass. The muddling step is where the magic happens — pressing and twisting the mint releases those bright, herbal oils that give the drink its signature fragrance and pale green color. A generous pour of chilled sparkling water keeps everything light and effervescent, and a final garnish of fresh mint and lime makes it look like something you'd order at a rooftop bar. It's the kind of drink that works just as well at a backyard cookout as it does at a dinner party, and it comes together with almost no effort.
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Learn more →Ingredients
2 servings
For the simple syrup
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
For the drinks
- 16 fresh mint leaves, plus 2 sprigs for garnish
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 2 cups sparkling water, chilled
- 2 cups ice cubes
For serving
- 2 lime wheels or wedges (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool for 5 minutes — the syrup should be clear and slightly thickened.
- 2
Divide the mint leaves evenly between two tall glasses. Add half the lime juice and half the simple syrup to each glass. Muddle firmly with a cocktail muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon, pressing and twisting 8–10 times until the mint is bruised and fragrant and the liquid turns pale green.
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