Perfect Mint Julep
- PREP 5min
- TOTAL 5min
A mint julep cocktail is refreshing and strong. It is traditionally made with fresh mint, bourbon, and simple syrup. I use this recipe for homemade simple syrup. It’s easy, I promise!
You Will Need
10 mint leaves, plus one sprig for garnish
1 ounce simple syrup, or more to taste (2 tablespoons)
2 ounces Kentucky bourbon whisky (1/4 cup)
Crushed ice
Sugar, for garnish, optional
Directions
Place mint and 3/4 ounce of simple syrup in a julep cup or rocks glass (at least 8 ounces). You’ll add the remaining simple syrup to taste in a moment.
Gently crush the mint leaves using a wooden muddler or the end of a wooden spoon. Then, push some of the mint pieces up the sides of the glass.
Add crushed ice to the glass, loosely filling it close to the top.
Pour the bourbon over the ice and lightly stir with a long spoon to mix. Taste, and then drizzle over the remaining simple syrup, if needed. (I like my cocktail on the sweeter side, so I use the full 1 ounce, sometimes more.)
Garnish with a mint sprig. Sip your julep close to where the mint garnish sits to get the minty aroma.
Adam and Joanne's Tips
- Optional garnish: Some mint julep recipes lightly sprinkle the mint sprig with sugar before adding it to the glass, adding a lovely sparkle.
- Simple syrup: 1:1 sugar-to-water is ideal for a classic mint julep, like this recipe. If you have a rich syrup (such as 2:1 sugar-to-water ratio), you will need less in your cocktail. And while they are not traditional, you can use pure maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Non-alcoholic mint julep: Use 2 ounces of non-alcoholic bourbon OR a good-quality ginger ale. If you use ginger ale, you will need a bit less simple syrup. Also, consider a fresh slice of lemon.
- The nutrition facts provided below are estimates.