Black Cherry Mojito Recipe: Refreshing Cherry Rum Cocktail

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This Black Cherry Mojito is a refreshing, easy-to-make flavored mojito. Made with a simple syrup from real black cherries, it’s a fruity twist on the classic mojito that’s perfect for warm weather.

If you enjoy mojitos, try other unique variations like a lychee mojito or a Blue Curaçao mojito. For more rum-based summer cocktails, consider a frozen hurricane, a strawberry daiquiri on the rocks, or a mango rum cocktail.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with real cherries — All the black cherry flavor comes from a homemade syrup made with fresh cherries, not artificial flavoring.
• No bar equipment required — You don’t need a cocktail shaker. A muddler is useful, but common kitchen tools can substitute if you don’t have one.
• Refreshing summer drink — This fruity take on a classic mojito is light, bright, and ideal for warm days and backyard gatherings.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Black Cherries: Sweet black cherries work best. If using tart cherries, you might want extra simple syrup to balance the acidity.
• Sugar & Water: These make the cherry syrup. Brown sugar can be substituted for a deeper, slightly caramel note.
• Rum: Use a white rum you like; a good mid-shelf rum (for example, Bacardi) is a solid choice for flavored cocktails. A splash of coconut rum (Malibu) can add a tropical hint, but avoid replacing all the white rum with it to prevent excess sweetness.
• Mint: Fresh mint is essential — dried mint won’t deliver the same aroma or flavor. Any common mint variety will work.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is best. If you must, use a high-quality bottled lime juice.
• 7Up or Club Soda: Traditional mojitos use club soda for a neutral fizz, but 7Up or Sprite adds a touch of sweetness and pairs nicely with the cherry syrup.

How To Make A Black Cherry Mojito

Step 1: Make the black cherry syrup. Combine cherries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally for 5–10 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the cherries burst.

Step 2: Remove from heat and let the syrup cool briefly. Strain through a fine mesh to remove cherry solids and pits, leaving a smooth syrup.

Step 3: In a highball glass, muddle mint leaves with black cherry syrup and fresh lime juice until the mint releases its aroma. Add ice, white rum, then top with 7Up or club soda. Stir gently and garnish with mint and a cherry.

Expert Tips

• Muddle gently: Press down on the mint rather than tearing it. Muddle until the leaves are fragrant — overworking the mint can make the drink bitter.
• Make a mocktail: Omit the rum for a delicious non-alcoholic version that works for kids or guests who prefer no alcohol.
• Store extra syrup: The recipe yields more syrup than a single cocktail needs. Once cooled, keep leftover syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to seven days. Use it to flavor other drinks or cocktails.

Recipe FAQs

📖 Recipe