Choosing the best sugar for a mojito

A mojito isn’t just a drink—it’s a refreshing, vibrant cocktail that screams summer. The combination of fresh mint, zesty lime, smooth rum, and just the right amount of sweetness makes for the perfect balance of flavours. But here’s the thing—not all sugars are created equal, and the one you choose can completely change your mojito experience.

So, let’s break it down and find out which sugar works best for this classic Cuban cocktail.

White Granulated Sugar

Yes, this is the most standard choice for mojitos, however, its lack of molasses content may result in a somewhat flat flavour profile due it’s refined process. It adds a clean sweetness without interfering with the other ingredients, making it a safe bet if you want a crisp and refreshing drink. That said, it doesn’t add much depth, so if you’re after something with a little more character, you might want to explore other options.

Demerara Sugar (My Personal Favourite!)

If you haven’t tried a mojito with brown sugar, you’re missing out. Demerara sugar has a deeper, caramelised flavour that perfectly complements the rum while balancing out the lime’s tartness. The slight molasses content gives the cocktail a warmer, richer sweetness—especially if you’re using aged rum.

Honestly, once you try it, you won’t go back. Demerara Sugar + Lime + Mint + Rum = Absolute Perfection.

Sugar Cane

A slight step up from white sugar, cane sugar is less refined and still retains a hint of molasses. This adds a delicate caramel note that brings a little more richness to your mojito without overwhelming the fresh lime and mint. It’s a great option if you want to elevate your cocktail while keeping things fairly traditional.

Simple Syrup

An essential ingredient in any home bar, simple syrup is made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. It’s great for mojitos because it provides a smooth, consistent sweetness without any sugar granules settling at the bottom of your glass. Plus, you can tweak the sugar-to-water ratio to suit your taste. Downside? Very boring and inconsistent.

Agave Syrup (A Wild Card That Works!)

I know what you’re thinking—"Isn’t agave for margaritas?" But hear me out. Made from the blue agave plant, this syrup has a naturally smooth sweetness that blends seamlessly into a mojito. Since it’s sweeter than regular sugar, you don’t need as much of it. It dissolves instantly, making it a great alternative for those who want a more subtle, natural sweetness without overpowering the mint and lime.

Think About the Rum

The type of rum you use will also impact the amount of sugar you need.

·        Aged rums develop natural caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit notes as they mature in barrels. These flavours add sweetness on their own, meaning you might need less sugar to balance your mojito.

·        Lighter, unaged rums tend to be drier and more neutral, so a little extra sweetness can help round out the flavours.

Whatever combination you go for, always taste as you go to find the perfect balance. After all, a mojito should be as refreshing as a summer breeze.

Cheers! 🍹