Traditional summer cocktails often come loaded with heavy syrups that leave you feeling sluggish and weighed down after just one glass. This keto mojito recipe strips away the sugar while keeping the classic Cuban highball spirit completely intact. Expect a blast of ice-cold lime, fragrant fresh mint, and a crisp finish that feels incredibly light and satisfying.
Why This Sip Hits the Spot
I know how disappointing it is to order a “skinny” drink only to get something watery and bland. This recipe changes the game by focusing on technique and the right ingredients.
- Smooth Sips Every Time
Using powdered sweetener instead of granular crystals is the secret here. It dissolves instantly into the lime juice, ensuring you never get that gritty, crunchy texture at the bottom of your glass. - Instant Cooling Factor
We skip standard cubes for crushed ice. This chills the drink lightning-fast and provides that perfect amount of dilution to balance the zesty lime and strong rum. - No Bitter Aftertaste
The method calls for gentle muddling rather than shredding the mint. This releases the sweet, aromatic oils without letting out the bitter chlorophyll, keeping the flavor clean and bright.
A Low Carb Mojito That Fits Your Life
Finding a cocktail that aligns with a low-carb lifestyle can feel like a chore, but this sugar free mojito makes it effortless. I love serving this at backyard gatherings because it feels indulgent without that heavy, sluggish feeling later. It allows me to enjoy the moment with friends while staying on track with my wellness goals.
Whether you are strictly keto or just watching your intake, this drink is a winner. It comes in at just 3g of net carbs per serving, making it a guilt-free option for unwinding.
Bartender Tips for the Perfect Pour
You don't need professional tools to make a great drink, but a few small tweaks make a huge difference in the final taste.
- Choose Your Sweetener Wisely
I usually reach for powdered allulose for this keto mojito recipe because it dissolves seamlessly. If you use erythritol, just know it has a slight cooling effect—which actually pairs beautifully with the mint! - Wake Up Your Mint
Before adding the mint to the glass, give it a quick clap between your hands. This simple trick wakes up the aromatics so you smell the fresh herbs before you even take a sip. - Switch Up the Base
If rum isn't your favorite, this base works wonders with other spirits. You can swap the rum for vodka for a minty twist, or if you prefer ginger flavors, try this Zesty Keto-Friendly Moscow Mule. - Berry Twist
Want to add a pop of color? Muddle a single strawberry or blackberry with the lime. If you love fruity drinks, you might also enjoy my Sparkling Strawberry Basil Keto Smash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this keto mojito recipe in a pitcher?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of guests (e.g., by 4 or 6). Muddle the lime and mint in the bottom of the pitcher first, add the rum and sweetener, and stir well. Wait to add the ice and sparkling water until just before serving to keep it carbonated and fresh.
What creates the best keto mojito with erythritol?
The key is using the powdered version. Granular erythritol doesn't dissolve well in cold alcohol, which can leave your drink feeling sandy. Powdered sweeteners blend perfectly into a syrup-like consistency when mixed with the lime juice.
Is white rum keto-friendly?
Yes, unflavored hard liquors like white rum are generally zero-carb. However, always check the label on flavored rums, as they often contain hidden sugars that turn a low carb mojito into a high-sugar one.
Print
Zesty Low-Carb Mint Mojito (Sugar-Free)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 Cocktails
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook / Mixology
- Cuisine: American / Caribbean Inspired
Description
This refreshing cocktail captures the classic vibrancy of a traditional Cuban Highball without the heavy syrup. Designed to serve two, this recipe uses powdered sweetener to eliminate the grainy texture often found in low-carb drinks, ensuring a smooth sip every time. It uses fresh lime and aromatic mint for a crisp, cooling finish that is completely keto-friendly and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 large lime (cut into 8 wedges, divided)
- 3 tablespoons powdered erythritol or allulose (approx. 36g, see notes on sweetness)
- 16 fresh mint leaves (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 3 ounces white rum (approx. 90ml)
- 1 cup crushed ice (or small cubes)
- 6 ounces lime-flavored sparkling water (chilled) (approx. 175ml)
Instructions
- Muddle the base: Place 4 lime wedges and half of the powdered sweetener (about 1.5 tablespoons per glass) into each of two sturdy highball glasses. Using a muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon, press down firmly on the limes to release their juice and dissolve the sweetener (about 20 seconds) until the mixture looks cloudy and syrup-like.
- Taste and adjust: Dip a clean spoon into the lime mixture and taste it. It should be tart but sweet. If it is too sour, stir in an extra teaspoon of sweetener now until dissolved, before adding the alcohol.
- Release mint oils: Add 8 mint leaves to each glass. Gently press the mint into the lime mixture just 3-4 times—do not shred the leaves. Stop when you smell a strong, fresh mint aroma.
- Add spirits and chill: Pour 1.5 ounces of white rum into each glass. Fill the glasses to the rim with crushed ice.
- Top and serve: Pour the lime-flavored sparkling water over the ice until filled to the top. Stir gently with a long spoon to lift the lime and mint from the bottom. Garnish with the remaining fresh mint sprigs.
Notes
- Sweetener Note: We recommend powdered erythritol or allulose because granular versions can leave a gritty texture in cold drinks. If using erythritol, be aware it can have a mild “cooling” sensation and may recrystallize slightly if the drink sits for too long; allulose dissolves more seamlessly.
- Why it works:
- Crushed Ice: Cools the drink faster and dilutes it slightly as you sip, balancing the strong rum and acidity.
- Gentle Muddling: Pressing the mint lightly rather than pulverizing it prevents the release of bitter chlorophyll, keeping the flavor clean.
- Key success warnings:
- Avoid Over-muddling: If the mint looks shredded or black, the drink will taste bitter.
- Allergy alert: This recipe is naturally free of common allergens (nuts, dairy, gluten, soy). Ensure your rum is distilled and gluten-free if you have high sensitivity.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 Cocktail | Cal: 109 | Net Carbs: 3g | Fat: 0g (Sat: 0g) | Protein: 0g | Total Carbs: 4g (Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 1g).
Nutrition Note: All nutritional values are estimates provided for your convenience. Actual figures may vary based on the specific brands and portion sizes you use. Please consult a medical professional for strict dietary needs.
I hope this drink brings a little extra sparkle to your evening! It’s become a staple on my patio because it’s just so simple to whip up. Remember, these are just my kitchen adventures—chat with your doctor for personalized tips!
