We are off to the races with this refreshing, iconic Mint Julep recipe! Our perfect ratio involves only a few ingredients and can be enjoyed on a hot day or all year long.
A Mint Julep is most commonly known for being the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby, enjoyed by spectators at the event and by fans around the world. While the event the cocktail is often associated with may be fancy, making the drink at home is quite easy and always a win!
Mint Julep Ingredients
- Mint leaves: What is a mint julep without mint? When muddled or gently crushed, fresh mint leaves release oils that add to the flavor and aroma of this cocktail.
- Sugar or simple syrup: Adds just enough sweetness to the cocktail. While simple syrup (made with just sugar and water) tends to mix better with cold liquids, granulated sugar can also be used.
- Bourbon: Knobb Creek is our go-to for bourbon whiskey, but choose one that you truly love since it is the only liquid in this cocktail.
- Crushed ice: Although we usually don’t consider ice to be an “ingredient”, the mint julep notoriously uses crushed ice rather than ice cubes, which melts into the cocktail and keeps it frosty cold.
How to Make Simple Syrup
How to Make a Mint Julep
Here is a brief overview of how the refreshing mint julep cocktail comes together. For the full recipe including all measurements, see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Muddle mint and sugar in a glass. Use a cocktail muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Pour in the bourbon. Then add plenty of crushed ice and stir until the glass becomes frosty.
- Garnish with fresh mint and enjoy!
How to Serve
A Mint Julep is commonly served in a small tumbler or Collins glass. Garnish with a sprig of mint to add a dash more flavor and color to the cocktail! Tip: gently slap the mint or rub between your fingers before adding to the cocktail to release the oils of the mint, making it more fragrant!
Other Fun Summer Drinks
If you try this Mint Julep recipe for derby day or any of our other cocktails, please leave a comment and let us know what you think. We love hearing from you and how you enjoy our recipes!
Mint Julep
Ingredients
- 4-8 mint leaves
- 2 teaspoons powdered or fine sugar or 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- 2 ounces bourbon
Instructions
- Add the mint leaves and sugar (or simple syrup) to a glass.
- Muddle them together.
- Pour in the bourbon.
- Add crushed ice and stir until the glass is frosted.
- Garnish and enjoy!
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