PrintAuthentic Mint Julep Recipe for Your Derby Party
Learn the traditional method for making a classic Mint Julep, featuring homemade mint simple syrup and the correct technique for muddling, perfect for your Kentucky Derby watch party.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Total Time: 5 min
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Muddling and Stirring
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/4 cup fresh mint simple syrup
- 2.5 oz best bourbon for mint juleps (e.g., Woodford Reserve or Maker’s Mark)
- 8–10 fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice
- Garnish: Large, fresh mint sprig
Instructions
- Prepare the mint simple syrup one day ahead. Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup packed fresh mint leaves in a saucepan. Heat gently until sugar dissolves. Do not boil. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Strain the syrup, discarding the leaves, and chill.
- Place 8 to 10 fresh mint leaves in the bottom of a silver julep cup or a sturdy highball glass.
- Pour the prepared mint simple syrup over the mint leaves.
- Gently muddle the mint leaves just enough to release their essential oils. Do not shred or bruise the leaves, as this releases bitter chlorophyll. A few gentle presses are sufficient.
- Add the bourbon to the cup.
- Fill the cup completely with crushed ice.
- Stir the mixture vigorously with a long spoon until the outside of the cup is heavily frosted. This chills the drink and packs the ice.
- Top with more crushed ice to create a slight dome above the rim.
- Garnish with a large, aromatic mint sprig inserted near the straw. Slap the mint sprig against your hand before placing it in the drink to release its aroma.
Notes
- For the best aesthetic, use a genuine silver julep cup; the metal frosts beautifully when chilled.
- If you need an easy mint julep mocktail variation, substitute the bourbon with 2.5 oz of chilled sparkling water or club soda.
- Always use fresh, vibrant mint; older leaves will not provide the necessary bright flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 2
- Fat: 0
- Saturated Fat: 0
- Unsaturated Fat: 0
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 0
- Cholesterol: 0