Crisp, vibrant, and kissed with citrus, this Clementine Mock Mojito is a bright twist on a timeless classic. The natural sweetness of fresh clementine blends seamlessly with mint, a splash of lemon, and a hint of floral orange blossom water, creating a drink that sparkles with flavor and charm.
Ingredients Breakdown
Clementine forms the heart of this mocktail. Its juicy segments and zesty juice offer a sunny sweetness and mellow acidity that define the drink’s vibrant personality. Using both juice and chopped flesh ensures a full-bodied citrus experience that’s bursting with freshness.
Lemon adds complexity and brightness. A single chopped wedge brings just the right amount of tartness to balance the sweetness of the clementine. Its oils and juice also enhance the aromatic dimension of the drink when muddled.
Demerara sugar, with its subtle molasses undertones, offers more than just sweetness. It provides depth and richness, gently rounding out the citrus and tying the flavors together with a soft caramel finish.
Mint leaves contribute a cool, clean lift to the overall flavor profile. When bruised gently, they release natural oils that infuse the drink with a refreshing herbal tone—perfectly balancing the fruit-forward components.
Orange blossom water introduces a floral essence that feels delicate and luxurious. Just a few drops are enough to perfume the glass, transforming a simple mocktail into a sensory experience.
Ice gives the drink its chill and helps dilute the muddled ingredients slightly, mellowing their intensity. Sparkling water is the final touch—adding effervescence, cleansing the palate, and turning the mocktail into a lively, sophisticated refreshment.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Begin by halving the clementine. Juice one half and finely dice the other. The juice provides a smooth citrus foundation, while the chopped pieces bring texture and bursts of fresh flavor. Add the juice to your glass and stir in the demerara sugar until fully dissolved, allowing its rich sweetness to integrate.
Next, toss in the diced clementine and chopped lemon wedge. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press the fruit, releasing juices and essential oils. Avoid excessive pressure to prevent bitterness, especially from the lemon rind.
Once muddled, fill the glass generously with ice. Scatter the mint leaves over the ice, then add a few aromatic drops of orange blossom water. The scent should be subtle yet noticeable with each sip.
Slowly pour in the sparkling water to top up the drink. Pouring gently helps preserve the carbonation and maintain a delicate effervescence. Give the drink one final gentle stir to distribute the flavors without flattening the bubbles.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing ripe clementines for optimal sweetness:
Look for clementines that feel heavy for their size and have a bright, glossy skin. They should give slightly when pressed and smell fragrant at the stem.
How to avoid over-muddling mint:
Press the mint just enough to bruise it without tearing. Over-muddling can release bitter chlorophyll, which may overpower the delicate citrus and floral notes.
Adjusting sweetness: when to add more sugar:
If your clementines are especially tart, add an extra ¼ teaspoon of sugar. Taste before topping with sparkling water to adjust to your liking.
Enhancing the floral note without overpowering the citrus:
Use no more than 2–3 drops of orange blossom water. If you prefer a stronger floral aroma, add it just before serving rather than muddling it in.
Can I use bottled clementine juice?
Yes, though fresh juice is preferred for flavor. If using bottled, opt for one without added sugars or preservatives for the most natural taste.
What can I substitute for orange blossom water?
Rosewater can be used sparingly, or skip it altogether and add a twist of orange peel for a fragrant citrus aroma.
How far in advance can I prep this mocktail?
The citrus and sugar can be muddled a few hours in advance and chilled. Add ice, mint, and sparkling water just before serving.
Can I make a large batch for a party?
Yes. Muddle the citrus and sugar in a pitcher, stir in orange blossom water, then refrigerate. Add ice and sparkling water in individual glasses when ready to serve.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This mocktail pairs beautifully with light, crisp appetizers. Try serving it alongside cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches, puff pastry cheese twists, or almond-stuffed dates for a stylish and effortless spread.
At brunch, it complements citrus scones, lemon poppy seed muffins, and mint-infused fruit salads. The bright acidity and gentle sweetness cut through richer brunch fare, keeping the palate refreshed.
In the evening, serve with a mezze platter—think marinated olives, roasted red pepper hummus, grilled halloumi, and pita chips. Grilled shrimp skewers or herbed goat cheese crostini also make excellent companions.
Creative Variations
Add a splash of color and sweetness by muddling a few fresh raspberries or strawberries with the citrus. These berries bring a juicy burst of flavor and a rosy hue.
Swap the mint for basil or lemon balm to add a different herbal note. Basil’s slightly peppery edge pairs beautifully with the clementine’s sweetness.
For a frozen twist, blend all ingredients with a handful of crushed ice to create a slushy-style mock mojito—perfect for warm summer days or poolside sipping.
Clementine Mock Mojito is more than just a pretty drink—it’s a refreshing, citrus-forward mocktail layered with texture, aroma, and flavor. Quick to prepare, endlessly versatile, and effortlessly charming, it’s the kind of drink you’ll reach for whenever you want something special, bright, and completely satisfying.
Ingredients
1 Clementine
1 Lemon wedge, chopped
½ teaspoon Demerara sugar
A few drops Orange blossom water
Small handful Mint leaves, woody stalks removed
Ice, as needed
Sparkling water, to top up
Instructions
Cut the clementine in half. Juice one half and finely chop the other. Pour the freshly squeezed juice into a serving glass and stir in the demerara sugar until dissolved.
Add the chopped clementine and chopped lemon wedge to the glass. Using a muddler or the end of a wooden spoon, gently press the fruit to release the juices and essential oils.
Fill the glass with ice, then scatter in the mint leaves and add a few drops of orange blossom water. Slowly top up with sparkling water and stir gently to combine. Serve immediately for a refreshing, citrusy mocktail.
Clementine Mock Mojito Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Clementine
- 1 Lemon wedge chopped
- ½ teaspoon Demerara sugar
- A few drops Orange blossom water
- Small handful Mint leaves woody stalks removed
- Ice as needed
- Sparkling water to top up
Instructions
- Cut the clementine in half. Juice one half and finely chop the other. Pour the freshly squeezed juice into a serving glass and stir in the demerara sugar until dissolved.
- Add the chopped clementine and chopped lemon wedge to the glass. Using a muddler or the end of a wooden spoon, gently press the fruit to release the juices and essential oils.
- Fill the glass with ice, then scatter in the mint leaves and add a few drops of orange blossom water. Slowly top up with sparkling water and stir gently to combine. Serve immediately for a refreshing, citrusy mocktail.
