Description
A simple and authentic Southern mint julep cocktail recipe perfect for summer and the Kentucky Derby, featuring fresh mint, bourbon, and crushed ice.
Ingredients
Scale
- 10–12 fresh mint leaves (preferably spearmint)
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar (or ½ ounce simple syrup as substitute)
- 2 ounces bourbon (e.g., Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark)
- Crushed ice (enough to fill the glass)
- 1 tablespoon water (to dissolve sugar)
- Mint sprigs for garnish
- Optional: lemon peel twist
Instructions
- Place fresh mint leaves into a julep cup or glass.
- Add granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of water.
- Gently muddle the mint and sugar together to bruise the leaves and dissolve the sugar without pulverizing the mint.
- Pour 2 ounces of bourbon over the muddled mint and sugar mixture.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Fill the glass to the top with crushed ice.
- Gently press the ice into the mint mixture with a spoon or muddler until the glass frosts.
- Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint, giving it a light slap to release aroma.
- Optionally, add a lemon twist for brightness.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Use fresh mint leaves for best flavor; muddle gently to avoid bitterness. Crushed ice chills and dilutes the drink slowly. Chill your glass beforehand for a colder drink. Simple syrup can replace sugar and water for easier mixing. Bourbon choice affects flavor; mid-range smooth bourbons are recommended.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail (approxim
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 4
- Carbohydrates: 5
Keywords: mint julep, Kentucky Derby cocktail, bourbon cocktail, summer drink, classic cocktail, homemade julep, mint cocktail