Would you like to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Mint Julep Recipe
This Mint Julep Recipe is the perfect classic Southern cocktail, blending fresh mint leaves, sugar, crushed ice, and smooth bourbon into a refreshing summer drink that channels all the charm of the Kentucky Derby.
Ever since I first tasted one at a Derby party under a hot May sky, I knew this iconic alcoholic drink—steeped in Southern tradition—was destined to become my go-to for backyard gatherings. A true cocktail star, the mint julep boasts just four ingredients, yet it never fails to feel festive. It’s light, crisp, and cooling, with that subtle sweetness from sugar and the herbal zing of mint—exactly what you want when temperatures climb.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast to make—ready in under 10 minutes
- Uses simple pantry items: sugar, water, bourbon
- Ultra-refreshing thanks to tons of crushed ice
- Classic Southern tradition perfect for Derby parties
- Customizable sweetness and mint intensity
- Minimal cleanup—just a shaker and julep cup (or glass)
- Elegant enough for special occasions, easy enough for weeknights
- A true conversation starter: “Where did you learn that trick?”
Ingredients
• 2 ounces good-quality bourbon (try Woodford Reserve or Buffalo Trace)
• ½ ounce simple syrup (see Notes for homemade method)
• 8–10 fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
• Crushed ice (about 1 heaping cup)
• Optional: a dash of club soda for a lighter finish
Tip: For best flavor, choose bright green mint leaves—avoid any that look wilted or dark.
Directions
- Gently muddle. In a julep cup or sturdy glass, place mint leaves and simple syrup. Lightly press with a muddler or wooden spoon—just enough to release oils without shredding the leaves into bits.
- Add bourbon. Pour in 2 ounces of bourbon. Give it a gentle swirl so the syrup, mint, and bourbon mingle.
- Pack with crushed ice. Fill the cup to the brim with crushed ice; pack it in firmly to create a frosty mound.
- Stir to chill. Using a long spoon, stir vigorously for about 10 seconds, coating the inside with frost. You’ll see tiny ice crystals cling to the sides—perfect.
- Top it off. Add a little more crushed ice to maintain that icy dome. If you like, splash a teaspoon of club soda for extra lift.
- Garnish. Tuck a fresh mint sprig into the top—give it a quick slap between your palms first to bloom those aromatic oils.
- Sip and savor. Serve with a straw standing up the mint garnish. Lean back, take a slow sip, and let the sweet, herbaceous flavors wash over you.
Servings & Timing
Makes: 1 classic Mint Julep (easily scale for a crowd)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill/Rest Time: none—serve immediately
Total Time: 5 minutes from countertop to cheers
Variations
• Peach Julep: Muddle a few peach slices with mint for a fruity twist.
• Honey-Mint Julep: Substitute honey syrup (1:1 honey to water) for simple syrup.
• Spicy Julep: Add a thin jalapeño slice when muddling for heat.
• Non-Alcoholic Mocktail: Swap bourbon for Seedlip Spice 94 or your favorite non-alcoholic spirit.
• Lavender Julep: Stir in ½ teaspoon lavender syrup instead of plain simple syrup.
• Berry-Infused: Mash a handful of blackberries with the mint before adding bourbon.
Storage & Reheating
• Prepared Mint Juleps are best enjoyed fresh—ice will melt and dilute the flavor.
• Simple syrup keeps in a sealed jar in the fridge up to 2 weeks; use it for cocktails, iced tea, or lemonade.
• Store extra mint sprigs in a glass of water in the fridge for up to 3 days—change the water daily.
• Bourbon lasts virtually forever when sealed; keep it upright in a cool, dark cabinet.
Notes
• Crushed ice is essential: larger cubes won’t chill as evenly or create that velvety frost. A blender, ice crusher, or even a zip-top bag and rolling pin will do the trick.
• Simple syrup shortcut: Combine equal parts sugar and water over low heat until sugar dissolves—cool completely before using.
• Slapping mint before garnishing releases those bright oils—trust me, it makes a difference.
• Cup vs. glass: A traditional silver julep cup chills faster and looks dramatic, but any sturdy glass works fine.
• On Derby Day, more than 120,000 Mint Juleps are served, so this hoity-toity drink really is a people pleaser.
FAQs
Q: What bourbon works best?
A: Choose mid-shelf with character—Woodford Reserve or Buffalo Trace are great for their smooth, oaky notes.
Q: Can I use granulated sugar instead of syrup?
A: Yes, but syrup dissolves more evenly; if you use granulated sugar, stir extra well to avoid gritty bits.
Q: How do I make crushed ice without special tools?
A: Fill a sturdy bag, crush with a rolling pin or the bottom of a saucepan until you hear that satisfying crackle.
Q: Why is crushed ice so important?
A: It chills and dilutes at the right rate, giving you that classic frosted cup and balanced sweetness.
Q: Can I prep juleps ahead for a party?
A: You can make simple syrup and chill mint-bourbon mix a few hours before, but assemble just before serving.
Q: What’s the history behind the mint julep?
A: Dating back to the 18th century, it began as a medicinal tonic and evolved into the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby.
Q: Are there regional twists?
A: In the South, some folks add a splash of peach liqueur or swap in cane sugar for a deeper flavor.
Q: How do I prevent mint from turning bitter?
A: Avoid crushing leaves too hard; gentle muddling is enough to wake up the aroma without chasing out the sweet side.
Conclusion
This Mint Julep Recipe captures the essence of a classic Southern tradition—simple, elegant, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re hosting a Derby watch party or lounging on the porch, it offers cool refreshment and a touch of festive flair. Give it a try, leave a note below, and explore more of my favorite bourbon cocktails for your next summer gathering!
Mint Julep Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces good-quality bourbon try Woodford Reserve or Buffalo Trace
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup see Notes for homemade method
- 1 heaping cup crushed ice about 1 heaping cup
- club soda Optional: a dash for a lighter finish
Instructions
- In a julep cup or sturdy glass, place mint leaves and simple syrup. Lightly press without shredding the leaves.
- Pour bourbon into the cup. Swirl to mix with mint and syrup.
- Fill the cup with crushed ice to create a frosty mound.
- Stir vigorously for about 10 seconds to coat the inside with frost.
- Add more crushed ice. Optionally, splash with a teaspoon of club soda.
- Place a mint sprig on top after lightly slapping it between your palms.
- Serve with a straw, slowly savoring the sweet, herbaceous flavors.
