The Mint Julep is a classic bourbon cocktail that’s synonymous with Southern hospitality and the Kentucky Derby. With a refreshing blend of sharp mint and oaky bourbon, this cocktail is perfect for a warm summer evening. In this recipe, we’ll share our favorite Mint Julep recipe, along with a few variations to try.
History of Mint Juleps and the Kentucky Derby
The Mint Julep has a long history with the Kentucky Derby, where it has been the official drink of the race since 1938. Every year, thousands of Mint Juleps are served at the event (a whopping 120,000 juleps are served every year!), and race-goers don their finest attire while sipping on the iconic cocktail.
If you’re hosting a Kentucky Derby party at home, be sure to have plenty of Mint Juleps on hand. To take things up a notch, consider making a large batch of Mint Julep punch, which can be served in a punch bowl with slices of fresh fruit for added flair.
Variations:
Peach Julep: Add a splash of peach liqueur or peach simple syrup to your Mint Julep for a sweet and fruity twist on this classic cocktail.
Berry Julep: Swap out the mint leaves for a handful of fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries. Muddle the berries with the simple syrup, then proceed with the rest of the recipe as written.
Ginger Julep: Add a few slices of fresh ginger to the muddling process for a spicy kick to your Mint Julep.
Classic Mint Julep Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Cocktail Shaker
Ingredients
- 2 oz broubon premium
- 1 oz simple syrup
- crushed ice
- 4-5 fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Begin by gently muddling the mint leaves and simple syrup in the bottom of a Julep cup or a rocks glass.
- Fill the cup with crushed ice, and add the bourbon.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Top with additional crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.