Easy Mint Julep Recipe

Take your taste buds on a trip to the South with this refreshing and minty cocktail that has been a staple of Southern charm for centuries – the classic Mint Julep.

While the Kentucky Derby is an annual event held on the first Saturday in May in Louisville, Kentucky, you don’t have to wait until then to enjoy a refreshing Mint Julep. This classic cocktail can be made all year round with the recipe provided below.

Even though I have visited Churchill Downs before, I have not been there during the “Run for the Roses” to taste the iconic Mint Julep. Hence, I decided to bring a bit of the Derby to me and put my own spin on the traditional recipe. This cocktail is easy to make and a must-try for any bourbon enthusiast.

So, grab your fancy attire and oversized hats, and let’s get started with making the perfect Mint Julep!

What is a Mint Julep?

A Mint Julep is a popular cocktail made with mint and bourbon and is famously served at Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby.

The history of the Mint Julep is fascinating. It dates back to the early 1800s and was initially believed to be a remedy for stomach ailments and other illnesses. The word “julep” comes from the Persian word “golab,” meaning “rose water,” which was once used as medicine in ancient times.

Bourbon and mint are the key ingredients that have made the Mint Julep popular in the Southern United States. Today, it is enjoyed worldwide and is considered a classic cocktail.

Ingredients in Mint Julep

• Simple syrup – can swap for 1 teaspoon of sugar.
• Mint leaves, no stems, more for garnish
• Bourbon
• Crushed ice

Recipe Variations

• Swap bourbon for another spirit such as rum, gin, or brandy.
• Use flavored syrups such as honey or maple syrup in place of simple syrup to sweeten the drink.
• Add fruit or herbs such as strawberries, raspberries, and basil.
• Use different types of mint such as peppermint or chocolate mint.

Equipment Needed

• Jigger or measuring cup – to accurately measure the ingredients.
• Muddler – to crush the mint leaves. Can use the back of a spoon if you don’t have one.
• Cocktail shaker – to mix the ingredients together and strain into a glass.
• Crushed ice – traditionally, the Mint Julep is served over crushed ice. You can achieve this with an ice crusher, blender or putting ice in a bag and hitting with a mallet.
• Julep cup or highball glass – to serve the drink in.

How to Make a Mint Julep

1. Add the simple syrup and mint leaves into the cocktail shaker.
2. Muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup to release the oils.
3. Add ice cubes and bourbon to shaker.
4. Shake well for 30 seconds to combine or until well chilled.
5. Add crushed ice to glass and strain drink over ice.
6. Garnish with mint leaves, add a straw and cheers!

FAQs

What goes with a mint julep?

As a Southern cocktail, the Mint Julep pairs nicely with Southern food such as fried chicken, as well as appetizers such as pimento cheese and deviled eggs.

What is the difference between a mint julep and a mojito?

The main difference between the Mint Julep and the Mojito is the use of ingredients. While the Mint Julep uses bourbon and no citrus juice, the Mojito uses rum and lime juice. Both cocktails use fresh mint and simple syrup.

What is the best bourbon to use for a mint julep?

If you want the official Kentucky Derby mint julep recipe, use Woodford Reserve bourbon. However, there are many good bourbons to choose from, such as Maker’s Mark, Old Forester, Jim Beam or your favorite brand.

If you enjoyed this Mint Julep recipe, be sure to check out our other refreshing cocktail recipes like the Cosmopolitan or Peach Bellini, both perfect for any occasion.

Recipe