A couple weeks ago, my husband and I headed out for a spontaneous date. Spontaneous outings are quite rare these days, but that evening my brother-in-law was staying with us and our toddler was sleeping sweetly in her crib. So, feeling free as birds, we hopped on the bus and headed to the beach.

After a gorgeous walk on the lake, we went to dinner, where I proceeded to order the most delicious mojito I’ve ever had. I begged our server to find out how I could make such a thing at home, and she returned with instructions that I promptly typed into my phone. They were a little vague, but they revolved around this flavored rum:

I experimented a little, and here is what I concocted at home–an amazing little drink.

The finished beverage came into being right as Alice was getting sleepy and ready for her bedtime, so she approached me with her blankie.

Stop drinking, Mom, and put me to bed!

You’ll be happy to know that I complied.

Ingredients

(makes 1 drink)

For the mojito

1 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 large sprigs of fresh mint

For the mojito

8 fresh mint leaves
2 chunks fresh pineapple
1 TBS mint-infused simple syrup
1 oz fresh lime juice + 1 lime wedge
2 oz Bacardi Pineapple Fusion (pineapple-coconut flavored rum)
3 oz club soda/seltzer water

1. For the simple syrup, bring the water, sugar and mint to a boil in a small pot. Stir to combine, then turn off the heat and let the mixture cool. Store refrigerated in a glass container for up to a month.
2. For the mojito, muddle the mint, lime wedge and pineapple with the simple syrup and lime juice.
3. Mix in the chilled rum, with ice if you want it extra cold.
4. Stir in the chilled club soda. Enjoy!

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