This classic Mint Julep recipe is fragrant and satisfying, built simply with good bourbon, muddled fresh mint leaves, and a touch of simple syrup. It’s the traditional cocktail of the Kentucky Derby and a refreshing choice for warm-weather gatherings.
Mint Julep Season!
Spring and early summer are perfect for a chilled mint julep. The recipe is straightforward and fast: fresh mint, a balanced simple syrup, and good bourbon, built over crushed ice. Whether you’re hosting a Derby watch party or enjoying a quiet evening, this drink is elegant, aromatic, and easy to prepare at home.
What is a Mint Julep?
A mint julep is a classic American cocktail made primarily with bourbon, sugar, fresh mint, and ice. The mint is gently muddled with sweetener to release its oils, the bourbon is added, and the drink is served very cold, often over crushed ice. It’s closely associated with the Kentucky Derby but is equally at home at any spring or summer gathering.
What You Need
- Fresh mint leaves (4 large leaves per serving)
- Simple syrup (about ½ ounce, or to taste)
- Bourbon (2 oz. per serving)
- Crushed ice
- Lowball or julep cup for serving
How to Make a Mint Julep
This mint julep recipe is simple and quick. If you already have simple syrup on hand, you can make the cocktail in under five minutes.
- Add the mint leaves and simple syrup to the bottom of a lowball glass or julep cup. Gently muddle until the mint is fragrant and slightly broken up — do not pulverize. If you don’t have a muddler, use the back of a wooden spoon to press the leaves lightly.
- Pour in the bourbon (about 2 ounces per serving).
- Fill the glass with crushed ice and stir briefly to combine and chill. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and serve immediately.
How to Make Simple Syrup
Simple syrup is a 1:1 mixture of sugar and water and is the most convenient way to sweeten cocktails evenly. It’s easy to prepare:
- Combine ½ cup water and ½ cup granulated sugar in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the sugar is fully dissolved and the liquid is clear.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. Use within 7–10 days.
Note: If you prefer a honey flavor, swap the granulated sugar for honey to make a honey simple syrup. Honey syrup pairs especially well with bourbon and gives the julep a floral, mellow sweetness.
Try it!
Honey Simple Syrup
Honey simple syrup (equal parts honey and water, warmed until combined) is an excellent natural sweetener for cocktails and is especially nice in a mint julep.
Best Bourbon for Mint Juleps
- Maker’s Mark — milder, sweeter profile
- Basil Hayden’s — light and approachable
- Woodford Reserve — rich, balanced flavors
- Rye whiskey is an alternative if you prefer a spicier, more earthy drink, though it will be less sweet than bourbon.
Can I Batch-Make This Cocktail?
Yes. To make a pitcher, multiply the ingredients proportionally and prepare a larger batch of simple syrup. Muddle the mint and simple syrup in a container, add bourbon, then chill. When serving, fill glasses with crushed ice and top with the chilled mixture, garnishing each with a fresh mint sprig. For the best flavor, add the mint just before serving or briefly infuse and then strain to avoid over-muddling for large batches.
Serving Tips
- Use fresh mint: Choose fragrant, healthy sprigs—spearmint or garden mint work well.
- Make good simple syrup: A 1:1 syrup keeps the sweetness even; honey syrup is a great alternative.
- Pick a quality bourbon: The spirit is the star—use one you enjoy sipping.
- Serve over crushed ice: Crushed ice chills and slightly dilutes the drink for a smooth finish.
- Garnish with mint: A sprig slapped between your palms releases aroma before placing it on the drink.
- Avoid over-muddling: Press gently to avoid a bitter, grassy flavor.
- Traditional presentation: A metal or silver julep cup is classic, but any chilled lowball glass works well.
Ingredients (per serving)
- 4 large mint leaves
- ½ ounce simple syrup, or more to taste
- 2 ounces bourbon
- Crushed ice
Instructions
- Add mint leaves and simple syrup to a lowball glass. Gently muddle until the mint is fragrant and slightly broken up.
- Add the bourbon.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice and stir to combine and chill. Garnish with a mint sprig and serve immediately.
Tips & Notes
- Recommended bourbons include Maker’s Mark, Basil Hayden’s, and Woodford Reserve. Choose based on your preferred flavor profile.
- To make simple syrup: combine equal parts water and sugar, heat until sugar dissolves, cool, and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to ten days.
- Nutrition information varies by ingredient and serving size; any values should be considered approximate.
Nutrition (approximate)
Calories: 193 kcal; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Sugar: 12 g. Nutrition is an estimate and will vary with ingredient choices and portion sizes.
Enjoy this refreshing classic—perfect for Derby day, backyard gatherings, or whenever you want a simple, elegant bourbon cocktail. Cheers!