The Mint Julep is a classic Southern cocktail that’s cool, crisp, and refreshingly simple. Made with fresh mint, bourbon, and crushed ice, it’s famously served at the Kentucky Derby—but I love making it anytime I want something smooth, cold, and a little indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this drink because it’s incredibly easy to make and feels instantly fancy. The sweet mint syrup pairs beautifully with the boldness of bourbon, and the crushed ice turns it into a slow-sipping experience. It’s refreshing, bold, and perfect for hot afternoons or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Fresh mint leaves
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Bourbon
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Sugar (granulated or simple syrup)
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Water (if making mint syrup)
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Crushed ice
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Mint sprig (for garnish)
Directions
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I start by making a simple mint syrup if I’m not using premade. I heat equal parts sugar and water with a handful of mint leaves until dissolved, then let it steep and cool.
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In a glass or julep cup, I muddle a few fresh mint leaves with a spoonful of the syrup to release the oils.
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I fill the cup with crushed ice—almost to the top.
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I pour in the bourbon and give it a quick stir.
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I top with more ice to mound it slightly, then garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
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I serve it immediately with a straw or sip straight from the frosty glass.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 1.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time (if making syrup): 5 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Variations
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I use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a unique twist.
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I add a splash of club soda for a lighter version.
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I infuse the syrup with lemon or orange zest for a citrusy note.
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I make it non-alcoholic by using iced tea or apple cider instead of bourbon.
storage/reheating
I store leftover mint syrup in the fridge for up to 1 week. I don’t store the assembled cocktail—it’s best enjoyed fresh over ice.
FAQs
Can I use crushed mint instead of syrup?
Yes, but I prefer using syrup for smoother flavor and better balance.
What’s the best bourbon for a Mint Julep?
I go for a smooth, mid-range bourbon—something with enough character to shine through the mint and sugar.
Do I need a special julep cup?
Not at all. I use any short glass or metal cup—though the traditional silver cup does keep it extra cold.
Can I make a big batch?
Yes, I scale up the syrup and bourbon, then pour over ice in individual glasses just before serving.
Is this a strong drink?
It is bourbon-forward, but the ice and mint mellow it out nicely. I adjust the amount of bourbon to suit my taste.
Conclusion
Mint Julep is the kind of cocktail that feels both refreshing and refined. I love how simple it is to mix up, yet it always impresses with its classic look and bold, minty flavor. Whether I’m enjoying one on a hot day or making a batch for friends, it’s a timeless favorite in my cocktail rotation.
Print
Mint Julep
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for syrup)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1
- Category: Drinks, Cocktail
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
The Mint Julep is a classic Southern cocktail made with bourbon, fresh mint, and crushed ice. Traditionally served at the Kentucky Derby, it’s a cool, refreshing, and elegant drink that’s easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 8–10 fresh mint leaves
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (or 1 tsp sugar + splash of water)
- Crushed ice
- Mint sprig, for garnish
Instructions
- If making simple syrup: combine equal parts sugar and water with mint leaves in a small pot. Heat until sugar dissolves. Let steep, then strain and cool.
- In a glass or julep cup, muddle fresh mint with the syrup to release oils.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice, almost to the top.
- Pour in the bourbon and stir gently to combine.
- Top with more crushed ice to form a dome.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use maple syrup or honey for a unique twist.
- Add club soda for a lighter variation.
- Infuse syrup with citrus zest for added depth.
- Make it non-alcoholic with iced tea or apple cider in place of bourbon.
- Store leftover mint syrup in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
