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
