Mint Julep Cocktail | Kentucky Derby Style
Best known as Kentucky’s signature cocktail, the mint julep is far too refreshing to save just for Derby Day. This mint julep cocktail combines bourbon, simple syrup, and fresh mint for a crisp, easy-to-enjoy whiskey cocktail.
I had my first mint julep years ago at my cousin’s house on Derby Day. They offered me one, and even though I usually stick to the same familiar drinks, I decided to give it a try.
While I’m pretty adventurous with food and happy to try all kinds of flavors, I tend to play it safe with cocktails and make the same few over and over. This bourbon cocktail was a step outside that routine.
One sip was all it took. The balance of mint, sweetness, and bourbon was so refreshing that it completely won me over. Since then, I’ve been much more open to trying new drinks, and it all started with that first mint julep.
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How to make a mint julep cocktail
What you’ll need
You will be building this cocktail in the metal cup or glassware.
The glassware, measuring glass, and muddler.
The ingredients are bourbon, simple syrup, and mint.
Muddle the mint in the bottom of the glass with the simple syrup.
Measure out the bourbon.
Add crushed ice to the glass and pour the bourbon over it.
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Add at least one fresh mint sprig to the cocktail, but I love lots of fresh mint leaves as garnish.
See how much the ice melts?
And the vertical view.
Look at that frosty cup! I’m so excited to drink this.
I hope you enjoyed this mint julep cocktail recipe!
Other popular bourbon recipes
And as always, may all your dishes/drinks be delish!
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Mint Julep Cocktail
Ingredients
- 10 leaves of mint (hold a few aside for garnish)
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- 2 1/2 ounces bourbon
Instructions
- In your stainless steel cup, place the mint and syrup.10 leaves of mint, 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- Muddle the mint with a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon until the mint is bruised and fragrant. You should be able to smell the mint without sticking your nose in the cup.
- Fill the cup 3/4 full with crushed ice.
- Pour bourbon on ice.2 1/2 ounces bourbon
- Add more ice, add some mint on top, stick your straw in and stir.
- Get on your Kentucky Derby hat, sip, smile, and enjoy.
Equipment
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Helpful tips
- Use the freshest mint you can find; it keeps well in the refrigerator for about a week.
- Muddle the mint gently with the simple syrup right in the glass, just until the leaves are bruised and fragrant.
- With only three ingredients, choose a good-quality bourbon.
- Make your own simple syrup; it’s quick and economical. Heat equal parts sugar and water, simmer for 5 minutes, then cool completely.
- This recipe is written for one cocktail, even if you see more pictured.
Nutrition
Originally published April of 2016.
Love…love…love this mint julep..simple, fun, and very tasty!
Me too! Thanks, Vince.
I love to drink this on the patio. We served it at a party and everyone loved it.
Thank you, Gloria.
This mint julep is such a classic cocktail. I love that I can use my homegrown mint for this too. I’ll be making it again.
I definitely have to plant some mint for the future. Thanks Sharon!
This was fun and refreshing! We have mint in our garden. I know a few friends who would love this drink too. I’ll send them to your site.
Yay. I get so envious of people with herb gardens. I think I’m going to have to get an aerogarden so I can have one too! 🙂 Thanks Sam!
This mint julep cocktail was absoloutly perfect and amazing! i love mint and will never stop loving it. thank you for sharing this recipe.
Thanks, Ramona.
This is a perfect mint julep! So refreshing, and the blend of ingredients is spot on!
Thanks Denise! I appreciate it.
Yum! This was so refreshing and tasty!
Thanks, Marwin! Cheers!