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This classic mojito cookie recipe transforms the refreshing summer cocktail into a delectable treat that delivers all the familiar flavors in a satisfying, chewy cookie form. The combination of rum, mint, and lime creates an unexpected twist on traditional cookies that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
I first created these mojito cookies for a beach-themed dinner party last summer, and they disappeared faster than any other dessert on the table. Now they've become my signature contribution to summer gatherings, always generating smiles and recipe requests.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: The foundation of these chewy cookies, providing richness and helping create that perfect soft texture
- Granulated and brown sugars: The combination gives both sweetness and moisture, contributing to the chewy centers
- Egg: Acts as a binder while adding structure to the cookies
- Milk: Adds tenderness to the dough
- Rum extract: Delivers that authentic mojito flavor without actual alcohol, making these family-friendly
- Spearmint extract: Provides the cooling mint note essential to a mojito experience
- All-purpose flour: The base structure for our cookies
- Baking soda: Creates lift and helps develop the perfect texture
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
- Lime zest: Adds bright citrus notes and beautiful visual appeal
- Fresh mint leaves: The perfect garnish that completes the mojito experience
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cream butter and sugars:
- Beat these ingredients together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air into the mixture, which is crucial for the right texture. Make sure your butter is properly softened but not melted for the best results.
- Add wet ingredients:
- Mix in the egg, milk, rum extract, and spearmint extract. Beat for a full 2 minutes until the mixture becomes even lighter and increases in volume. This step builds the foundation for soft, chewy cookies.
- Incorporate dry ingredients:
- Add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing just until combined. Overmixing at this stage will develop too much gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as no dry flour is visible.
- Form and chill dough:
- Use a cookie scoop to create uniform balls, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is non-negotiable as it allows the flavors to meld and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
- Bake to perfection:
- Space the chilled dough balls on your baking sheet and bake until just set at the edges. The centers will look slightly underdone at 11 minutes, but this ensures they remain soft and chewy after cooling.
- Garnish while warm:
- Add the lime zest and mint leaves while the cookies are still warm. The residual heat helps release the aromatic oils in both garnishes, intensifying the mojito flavor profile.
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The inspiration for these cookies came from a vacation in Key West where I fell in love with the classic mojito. Something about the combination of mint and lime feels incredibly nostalgic to me, and these cookies let me enjoy those vacation memories anytime. My favorite part is watching people take their first bite and seeing their eyes light up at the unexpected flavor profile.
Flavor Variations
These mojito cookies provide an excellent base for experimentation. For a more pronounced lime flavor, add 1 tablespoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of lime zest directly to the dough. If you prefer a stronger mint presence, increase the mint extract by ⅛ teaspoon, but be careful as mint can quickly overpower. For an adult-only version, replace the milk with 2 tablespoons of actual white rum, which will add authentic flavor while the alcohol bakes out.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies shine when served alongside complementary flavors. Pair them with a scoop of coconut ice cream for a tropical dessert experience, or serve them as part of a Cuban-inspired dessert platter with fresh fruits and coffee. For special occasions, use them to garnish the rim of an actual mojito cocktail for a meta dessert-drink combination that will impress guests.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your cookies spread too much during baking, your dough likely wasn't chilled enough. Return remaining dough to the refrigerator for another 30 minutes. If the mint or rum flavors aren't pronounced enough, remember that these flavors develop and intensify after the cookies have cooled completely and rested overnight. For the best texture contrast, be careful not to overbake the cookies they should look slightly underdone in the center when you remove them from the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh lime juice instead of lime zest?
Lime zest is recommended for a more concentrated flavor, but a small amount of lime juice can be used if necessary. Adjust the other liquid ingredients to avoid overly wet dough.
- → What can I substitute for rum extract?
If you don't have rum extract, you can use vanilla extract or almond extract as alternatives. Adjust the quantity to suit your flavor preference.
- → Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling the dough is essential for the best texture. It allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- → How should I store these cookies?
Store ungarnished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Garnished cookies are best enjoyed fresh.
- → Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can store unbaked cookie dough in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This allows you to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.