Jill’s Vanilla Mojito

This recipe for vanilla mojitos comes courtesy of my Aunt Jill.  Jill, my mother’s older sister, is a wonderful person, a caring aunt, and a huge supporter of this blog.  She’s the first to recommend recipes (she helped me think this one out), always tells me what she thinks of my dishes, and never fails to encourage and cheer me on.  She’s incredibly special and important to me, and this Mother’s Day I’d like to give her a big virtual hug.

Aunt Jill, not a particularly big rum fan, dreamed up this mojito recipe.  Now Dan and I are very fond of the classic mojito, so we were skeptical.  I wasn’t sure if vanilla would make sense with the lime and mint, and if I would be okay giving up rum for vodka.  We decided to do a side-by-side taste testing, one version made with vanilla vodka and the other made with rum + vanilla extract.  The verdict? Both are wonderful.  The vodka is subtle and very refreshing, perfect for a picnic.  I have every intention of enjoying some of these when we make our way up to New Jersey this summer to visit Aunt Jill.

From left: my cousin Taylor (five days younger than me), Aunt Jill, Uncle Ron, and my cousin Jessie

Christmas in our family. Note, please, both my Aunt Jill and my Mom (front row left and first in).  This is why I’m the way I am.  Also, Jessie’s total deadpan kills me.

Vanilla Mojito Two Ways

Vodka:

Slice two limes.  Muddle them with a handful of mint leaves in the bottom of a pitcher.  Combine 1 cup lime simple syrup and 1 cup of vanilla vodka.  Chill.  When you arrive at your picnic destination, add 16 oz of club soda to the pitcher and serve!

Rum:

Slice two limes.  Muddle them with a handful of mint leaves in the bottom of a pitcher.  Combine 1 cup lime & vanilla simple syrup and 1 cup of white rum.  Chill.  When you arrive at your picnic destination, add 16 oz of club soda to the pitcher and serve!

Lime Simple Syrup

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

Juice of two limes

Combine all ingredients in a medium pan.  Boil until sugar dissolves.  Cool.

Lime & Vanilla Simple Syrup

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

1 tbsp vanilla extract

Juice of two limes

Combine all ingredients in a medium pan.  Boil until sugar dissolves.  Cool.