Mojito Moonshine Drink combines the bright lime, sugar and fresh mint you love in a mojito with the bold kick of moonshine. The result is a tangy, refreshing flavored moonshine with plenty of punch—perfect for warm weather and backyard gatherings.
You might also enjoy Pineapple Moonshine or Peach Pie Moonshine.
Why this Flavored Moonshine Recipe Works
This mojito-flavored moonshine is ideal for summer. Although I usually make moonshine for the holidays, this recipe is my go-to for warm days. It’s great served over ice or mixed with ginger ale, Sprite, or club soda and finished with fresh mint. You don’t need special distilling equipment to make this flavored moonshine—just simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools.
- Quick prep: Only minutes to assemble; simple syrup takes a short simmer.
- Rest: Best after resting and mellowing for about a month.
- Adaptable: Easily modified—try coffee, fruit, or other flavor profiles.
- Great gifts: Bottled moonshine makes a memorable party favor or gift for friends who enjoy adult beverages.
What is Homemade Moonshine?
Moonshine generally refers to clear, unaged whiskey. Historically it was made from malted barley in Scotland and Ireland or corn mash in the United States. For flavored moonshine like this recipe, neutral high-proof alcohol is combined with juices, syrups and fresh herbs to build flavor.
Ingredient Notes
- Fresh mint: One bunch—fresh leaves give the best aroma and flavor.
- Limeade: Two 59-ounce containers (or adjust to taste).
- High-proof grain alcohol: Everclear (191 proof) or another neutral spirit—use responsibly.
- Light rum: About 1 cup to add classic mojito warmth.
- Simple syrup: Equal parts sugar and water simmered with mint.
- Limes: Fresh lime juice is recommended; bottled juice can substitute in a pinch.
See the recipe card below for exact measurements and details.
Variations and Substitutions
This moonshine base is flexible—use it as a mixer or tweak ingredients to craft new flavors. Mix a shot into cola, ginger ale, or club soda, or try fruit additions for seasonal twists.
- Alternate sweetener: Adjust sugar in the simple syrup for a sweeter or drier result.
- Mixers: Lemonade, iced tea, grapefruit or orange juice all pair well.
- Other spirits: Use straight moonshine or blend with vermouth or flavored liqueurs for different profiles.
- Flavor additions: Vanilla extract, berries, or watermelon brighten the drink; apple juice with a cinnamon stick gives a fall twist.
- Hydration reminder: High-proof alcohol can dehydrate—drink water between alcoholic beverages and enjoy responsibly.
Equipment Needed
Minimal equipment is required—most items are common kitchen tools.
- Large stock pot or a covered container for steeping the mixture.
- Mason jars or bottles for storing the finished moonshine.
- Funnel for pouring into jars.
- Cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer to remove solids.
How to Make the Moonshine
You can enjoy this moonshine neat, over ice, or mixed with a soft drink. The steps below summarize the process; consult the recipe card for full details.
1. Make the Simple Syrup
In a small saucepan combine sugar, water and mint. Bring to a simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves. Allow the syrup to cool, then strain out the mint pieces.
2. Combine and Chill
In a large pot or container muddle the mint with the handle of a wooden spoon to release its oils. Add the limeade, Everclear (or neutral spirit), light rum and the cooled simple syrup. Add juice from three limes and toss in the spent lime halves. Cover and refrigerate for three days to marry the flavors.
3. Strain and Bottle
After chilling, strain out the solids and pour the liquid into clean mason jars, leaving about ½ inch headspace. Seal and store in a cool, dry place for about one month to mellow before enjoying.
Recipe FAQs
Add a shot to any mixer over ice—cola, ginger ale, or soda all work. Rim the glass with salt for a salty-sweet balance or experiment with fruit syrups and liqueurs.
This recipe uses commercially available high-proof alcohol or neutral spirits. Distilling spirits at home is regulated and may be illegal in many places—follow local laws and safety guidelines if you pursue distilling.
The final alcohol content depends on the proof of the moonshine or neutral spirit you start with and any additional mixers. Adjust spirit amounts to reach your desired strength and always drink responsibly.
Expert Tips
A well-balanced mojito-style moonshine should taste fresh rather than overly sweet or boozy. Mint and lime provide brightness while the rum adds depth. Here are a few practical tips to help you get the best result:
- Add mixers: Ginger ale, Sprite or club soda are great choices. Garnish with mint and lime and serve over ice.
- Short cut: Bottled lime juice works if fresh limes aren’t available—use equal amounts.
- Flavor variations: Add berries or watermelon for a fruity twist; strawberries or raspberries are especially refreshing.
- Sugar adjustments: Adjust the simple syrup to taste—add more or less sugar for a sweeter or tarter drink.
Mojito Moonshine Drink
Equipment
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stock pot or large container
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cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
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juicer (optional)
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wooden spoon and mason jars
Ingredients
Moonshine
- 1 bunch fresh mint
- 118 ounces limeade (about 2 bottles)
- 375 ml Everclear (191 proof)
- 1 cup light rum
- 1 batch simple syrup (recipe below)
- 3 limes (juice)
Simple Syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 handful mint, roughly chopped
Instructions
Simple Syrup
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In a small saucepan combine sugar, water and a handful of mint. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
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Boil for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat and cool. Strain out the mint before using.
Moonshine
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In a large stock pot or container, add the bunch of mint and muddle with a wooden spoon to release oils.
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Add limeade, Everclear, light rum and the cooled simple syrup. Stir in the juice of three limes and toss in the lime halves.
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Cover and refrigerate for 3 days to infuse.
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After 3 days, strain out solids and pour the moonshine into clean mason jars, leaving ½ inch headspace.
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Seal jars and store in a cool, dry place for about 1 month to mellow before drinking. Enjoy responsibly.
Notes
- Add mixers: Ginger ale, Sprite, club soda or cola are great over ice with a mint garnish.
- Shortcut: Use bottled lime juice if fresh limes aren’t available.
- Variations: Add fresh berries or watermelon for a fruity twist.
- Alternate method: Use an Instant Pot on sauté to make the simple syrup if desired.
- Sugar: Adjust to taste.
Nutrition
Nutrition information are estimates. Verify with your own trusted resource if needed.
This recipe is a personal adaptation intended to highlight flavors and make the drink accessible. It is not presented as an authentic traditional recipe.