Looking for a simple way to make a big-batch drink that feels fresh and fun without the alcohol? This virgin mojito pitcher recipe is your perfect match for any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, baby shower, or weekend brunch, this mocktail hits that bright, citrusy note everyone can enjoy. It’s crisp, fizzy, and ready to serve in under 10 minutes.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to create a virgin mojito pitcher recipe that’s flavorful, balanced, and anything but boring. You’ll also learn how to make it with or without Sprite, how far in advance you can prep it, and why this drink always disappears faster than expected. If you’re searching for a go-to mojito mocktail for a crowd, this recipe will deliver every single time.
Table of Contents
virgin mojito pitcher recipe
Equipment
- large pitcher
- muddler or wooden spoon
- citrus juicer
- measuring cups
- stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves (packed)
- 0.5 cup fresh lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
- 0.5 cup simple syrup
- 4 cups sparkling water or Sprite
- 2 cups ice (or more as needed)
- 8–10 slices lime (for garnish)
- 4–6 extra mint sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, gently muddle the mint leaves using the back of a spoon or muddler. Avoid shredding them—just release the oils.
- Add the fresh lime juice and simple syrup. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
- Pour in the sparkling water (or Sprite, if using). Stir gently to keep the carbonation.
- Add plenty of ice and garnish with lime slices and mint sprigs.
- Serve immediately. If prepping ahead, chill the base and add soda and ice just before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
When One Glass Just Isn’t Enough
A few summers ago, I was prepping drinks for a friend’s outdoor baby shower in Maine. The forecast said sun, but the temperature had other plans—it was one of those days where even the ice cubes were sweating. I had planned for single-serve mocktails, but guests kept asking for refills faster than I could stir. That’s when I realized: I needed a pitcher. And I needed it fast.
So I grabbed a big glass jug, tossed in freshly picked mint from my garden, squeezed in the limes I had on hand, and added soda water from the cooler. I sweetened it lightly with cane syrup, gave it a good muddle, and poured it over crushed ice. What started as a quick fix turned into the drink of the day—and my go-to virgin mojito pitcher recipe ever since.
Since then, this virgin mojito pitcher recipe has become a staple at nearly every gathering I’ve catered or hosted. It’s easy, bright, and works whether you’re serving four people or fifteen.
Why This Pitcher-Style Mojito Mocktail Works
It’s not just about scale—it’s about balance. This virgin mojito pitcher recipe gives you a base that’s refreshing, not sugary. You get the tang of lime, the zing of mint, and just enough sweetness to keep things smooth. And because it’s alcohol-free, it’s perfect for kids, teens, expecting moms, or anyone choosing not to drink.
This drink also plays well with variations. Want a tropical twist? I sometimes swap in coconut water or blend in pineapple juice like I do in my Coconut Mojito Mocktail. Hosting a frozen drinks kind of crowd? This recipe is easy to adapt, just like my Frozen Mojito Mocktail.
Making the Perfect Virgin Mojito Pitcher Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
This virgin mojito pitcher recipe starts with simple, fresh ingredients. Everything can be found at your local grocery store or garden, and the recipe scales up beautifully.
Here’s a quick ingredient chart based on how many people you’re serving:
| Ingredient | 4 Servings | 8 Servings | 12 Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh mint leaves | ½ cup (packed) | 1 cup (packed) | 1½ cups (packed) |
| Fresh lime juice | ¼ cup | ½ cup | ¾ cup |
| Simple syrup | ¼ cup | ½ cup | ¾ cup |
| Sparkling water | 2 cups | 4 cups | 6 cups |
| Ice | As needed | As needed | As needed |
| Lime slices (garnish) | 4–6 slices | 8–10 slices | 12–16 slices |
Optional: Substitute Sprite for the sparkling water + syrup combo for a lighter, fizzy variation (explained below).
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
- Muddle the Mint
In a large pitcher, gently press the mint leaves with the back of a spoon or muddler. Don’t shred them—just enough to release the oils. - Add Lime and Sweetener
Pour in the freshly squeezed lime juice and simple syrup. Stir gently to combine. If using Sprite instead, skip the syrup and go straight to pouring. - Top with Sparkling Water (or Sprite)
Add cold sparkling water or chilled Sprite to the pitcher. Stir again, but gently—especially if using carbonated drinks. - Add Ice and Garnish
Fill the pitcher with ice. Add lime slices and a few more mint sprigs for that clean, party-ready look. - Serve Immediately or Chill First
For the freshest flavor, serve right after mixing. If prepping ahead, hold off on the ice and soda until just before serving to avoid dilution.
The Sprite Version: Fizzy & Fast
Using Sprite instead of syrup + sparkling water gives you a super quick option, especially for last-minute parties. It’s a little sweeter and kid-friendly, perfect for a casual backyard setup.
Many readers love pairing this version with citrus-heavy meals, especially when they’re serving tropical appetizers or fruity snacks. For more ideas, check out these must-have Tropical Mocktail Ingredients to upgrade your drink table.
You can even make a whole batch in your drink dispenser. When I do this for summer events, I like to offer two pitchers: one made with Sprite, and one with the original recipe.
Small Touches That Make a Big Difference
If you want to get fancy, try rimming glasses with a mix of lime zest and sugar. Or swap your mint for fresh basil for a twist, like in my go-to Tropical Frozen Mojito Variation.
Planning for a larger event? You can triple the base mix (mint, lime, syrup) ahead of time and just pour over soda water when it’s time to serve.
Party-Perfect Serving & Make-Ahead Tips
Keep It Fresh Through the Whole Event
When you’re serving a virgin mojito pitcher recipe at a party, timing and presentation make all the difference. The drink should feel bright, cold, and freshly mixed—no one wants a wilted mint leaf floating around in warm soda.
To keep your pitcher mocktail crisp throughout the event:
- Add soda water last: Mix your mint, lime, and syrup together early, but only top with sparkling water right before serving.
- Use frozen lime slices instead of ice to chill the drink without watering it down.
- Serve in glass if possible: It keeps the drink cooler and shows off the vibrant colors.
If you’re hosting outdoors or setting up a self-serve station, keep your pitcher nestled in a shallow ice bucket to maintain temperature. And always have extra garnishes—people love adding more mint or citrus to their glass.
Prep in Stages (Without Losing Flavor)
This virgin mojito pitcher recipe holds up surprisingly well when prepped in advance—if you do it right. The trick is separating the base and the bubbles.
Here’s a simple prep plan that works great for events:
- Up to 1 day before: Muddle mint, lime juice, and syrup together. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Just before serving: Add sparkling water (or Sprite), pour over ice, and garnish.
- Serving multiple batches? Double or triple the base, keep cold, and mix fresh pitchers on the spot as needed.
This approach helps you avoid the biggest mojito mocktail mistake—flat soda or soggy mint. It’s also a lifesaver when you’re short on time before guests arrive.
Want a closer look at the original single-serve version of this drink? You’ll love the classic Virgin Mojito recipe that started it all—it’s a great option for personalizing each glass at smaller get-togethers.
Frequently Asked Questions: Virgin Mojito Pitcher Recipe
How to make a virgin mojito pitcher?
Start by muddling fresh mint leaves with lime juice and simple syrup at the bottom of a large pitcher. Add sparkling water or Sprite, toss in a few lime slices and mint sprigs, then serve over ice. This method works whether you’re serving 4 or 14 guests. You’ll find the full instructions and serving-size chart earlier in this virgin mojito pitcher recipe guide.
What are the ingredients in a virgin mojito?
The basics include fresh mint, lime juice, sweetener (like cane syrup or agave), and something fizzy—usually soda water or Sprite. Optional garnishes include lime wheels and extra mint. For a pitcher version, you’ll want to scale up each component and mix just before serving.
How do you make a mojito in a jug?
Use the jug as your mixing bowl. Gently muddle mint with lime juice and sweetener at the bottom. Add chilled soda or Sprite, give it a light stir, and toss in plenty of ice and lime slices. Make sure not to over-muddle the mint—it can turn bitter. Prep the base in advance, but always add carbonation last for the best flavor and fizz.
How to make virgin mojito with Sprite?
Replace both the simple syrup and soda water with Sprite. Start by muddling mint and lime juice in your pitcher, then pour in the cold Sprite. It’s a little sweeter and has a lemon-lime kick that many guests love. It’s especially handy if you don’t have syrup or soda water on hand.
Conclusion: A Mocktail Everyone Will Remember
Whether you’re planning a brunch, a beach day, or a backyard BBQ, this virgin mojito pitcher recipe gives you a crowd-pleasing mocktail that feels festive and fresh—no alcohol needed. It’s quick to prep, easy to scale, and refreshing every single time.
You’ve now got the full toolkit: from ingredient ratios to make-ahead tips and even a fizzy Sprite version. Plus, if you’re feeling creative, revisit the classic Virgin Mojito for a more personalized touch.
This pitcher drink doesn’t just fill glasses—it makes guests feel included. And that’s what truly great hosting is about.
