Mojitos are a classic drink for the summer – there is really nothing more refreshing than the combo of mint and lime! The next time you make a classic mojito, we highly recommend jazzing it up with Member’s Mark™ Crushed Red Pepper! You will love how the simple spiciness of red pepper adds a whole new dimension to this cocktail. Note: be sure to plan this recipe in advance – you need to infuse the rum with the Member’s Mark™ Crushed Red Pepper a day ahead of time.
Not into a Spicy Mojito? Try These Infused Rum Options Instead!
🍍 Fruits
-
Pineapple (classic, sweet tropical flavor)
-
Mango (sweet, exotic notes)
-
Berries (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries – bright and tangy)
-
Citrus (orange, lime, lemon, grapefruit peels or segments – zesty!)
-
Apple or pear (smooth, mellow notes)
-
Watermelon or cantaloupe (light, refreshing flavor)
-
Banana (creamy, tropical sweetness)
🌿 Herbs
-
Mint (great for mojitos!)
-
Basil (subtle, slightly sweet)
-
Lemongrass (citrusy, aromatic)
-
Thyme or rosemary (earthy and fresh)
🍂 Spices
-
Cinnamon sticks (warm, cozy flavor)
-
Star anise (licorice-like)
-
Cloves (earthy, warming)
-
Cardamom pods (fragrant, spicy-sweet)
-
Ginger slices (zippy, spicy kick)
🍬 Sweet Stuff
-
Vanilla beans (rich, creamy undertones)
-
Coffee beans (deep, roasty flavors)
-
Cocoa nibs or chocolate pieces (for a hint of chocolatey goodness)
🍹 Unique / Creative Combos
-
Spicy Mango: mango + jalapeño or habanero slices
-
Pineapple Ginger: pineapple chunks + ginger
-
Berry Vanilla: mixed berries + vanilla bean
-
Tiki Spice: cinnamon, star anise, allspice berries
-
Tropical Herb: pineapple + mint or basil
Tips for infusing:
-
Wash and prep everything well.
-
Taste daily; some infusions (like chili peppers) can get very strong fast!
-
Strain and bottle when it’s just right.

Red Pepper Mojito
Ingredients
For the Infused Rum
- 1 tsp Member's Mark™ Crushed Red Pepper
- 1 750-milliliter bottle white rum
For the Mojito
- 40 Fresh mint leaves, plus additional sprigs for garnish
- 1/4 cup Fresh lime juice
- 3 tbsp Sugar
- 1 cup Member's Mark™ Crushed Red Pepper-infused rum
- 2 cups Club soda
- 4 Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions
For the Infused Rum
- Place Member's Mark™ Crushed Red Pepper in the bottle of rum, seal, and allow to steep for 24 hours. Be sure to invert the bottle every so often to agitate the chiles. Strain out the Member's Mark™ Crushed Red Pepper flakes, and store the rum in an airtight bottle.
For the Mojito
- In a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, lightly muddle the mint leaves. Add the lime juice and sugar; stir to dissolve. Add 1 cup of the Member's Mark™ Crushed Red Pepper-infused rum and a few ice cubes; stir to combine (about 30 stirs). Top off with club soda and stir 3 times. Divide the cocktail among 4 glasses. Garnish with a mint sprig and a wedge of lime, and serve with a straw.