Classic Mint Julep Recipe

Classic Mint Julep Recipe: A Southern Staple for Derby Day & Beyond

Thank you so much for being here! I’m genuinely thrilled to share this one with you—because some drinks are more than just drinks… they’re tradition. Right after the H1, let me say it clearly: Classic Mint Julep Recipe is the iconic cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, but it’s also a refreshing, simple sipper that belongs on every porch and patio all summer long.

Whether you’re hosting a Derby Day party, looking for a signature cocktail for warm-weather gatherings, or just want to treat yourself to something crisp and classy, this recipe will not let you down. Be sure to subscribe below so you can get this one (and more Southern classics) sent straight to your inbox!

What Is a Classic Mint Julep?

A Classic Mint Julep is a chilled bourbon cocktail made with just a few ingredients: fresh mint, sugar (or simple syrup), crushed ice, and Kentucky bourbon. It’s traditionally served in a frosty silver cup and sipped slowly in the heat of spring and summer—most famously at Churchill Downs during the Kentucky Derby.

Elegant, cooling, and deceptively simple, the Mint Julep has been a symbol of Southern hospitality since the 18th century. It’s sweet, strong, and minty—a combination that makes it instantly iconic.

Reasons to Love This Mint Julep Recipe

• Just 4 ingredients, and ready in minutes.

• Deeply refreshing, especially on hot days.

• Traditional and timeless—a piece of Southern heritage.

• Easy to batch for parties and Derby Day gatherings.

• Looks gorgeous in a silver julep cup or any frosty glass.

What Does a Mint Julep Taste Like?

The Mint Julep is the perfect balance of bold and refreshing. You get:

• The warm, oaky kick of bourbon

• A sweet, cool syrupy base

• An herbal note from muddled mint

• And that glorious mountain of crushed ice, which makes it almost slushy-like as it melts and dilutes just slightly with time

It’s not for the faint of heart—but it’s incredibly smooth, especially if you love bourbon.

Health Benefits (Yes, Really!)

Okay, okay—this is a cocktail, not a green juice. But here’s the upside:

• Mint can aid digestion and freshen breath.

• Crushed ice = hydration (kind of?)

• Simple, clean ingredients—no artificial syrups or colors.

It’s about enjoyment, tradition, and treating yourself the Southern way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 oz Kentucky bourbon (Woodford Reserve is traditional)

• ½ oz simple syrup (or 1 sugar cube with a splash of water)

• 8–10 fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish

• Crushed ice (lots!)

• Optional: powdered sugar (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Julep cup or rocks glass

• Muddler or wooden spoon

• Cocktail spoon

• Straw (preferably metal or reusable)

• Ice crusher or mallet & bag (for crushed ice)

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Want to put a twist on tradition?

• Use maple syrup or honey instead of simple syrup for a richer flavor.

• Add a splash of peach bitters for subtle fruitiness.

• Try rye whiskey if you prefer something spicier than bourbon.

• Infuse your simple syrup with mint leaves for an even more aromatic version.

How to Make a Classic Mint Julep (Step-by-Step)

1. Muddle the mint: In the bottom of your julep cup or glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup. Don’t over-crush—you want to release the oils, not shred the leaves.

2. Add bourbon: Pour in the bourbon and give it a stir to combine.

3. Fill with crushed ice: Mound the glass with crushed ice all the way to the top. Pack it in gently to create that frosty dome.

4. Stir well: Use a cocktail spoon to stir until the glass is frosty and cold to the touch.

5. Garnish: Add a sprig of mint, slap it gently between your palms to release the aroma, and nestle it into the ice. Optional: dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

6. Serve immediately with a short straw so you get the full aroma of mint with each sip.

What to Serve with a Mint Julep

This cocktail shines at Derby Day gatherings and summer soirées alike. Pair it with:

• Kentucky Hot Brown Sliders

• Pimento Cheese Deviled Eggs

• Bourbon-glazed chicken wings

• Derby Pie or chocolate pecan tarts

And of course—sip it while wearing a fabulous hat and watching the races!

Tips for the Best Mint Julep

• Use quality bourbon—it’s the star here.

• Crush your ice finely—it chills the drink and gives it that signature texture.

• Fresh mint only—no dried stuff!

• Chill your glass or julep cup ahead of time for extra frostiness.

• Don’t over-muddle—bruising the mint can make it bitter.

How to Store and Batch

Simple syrup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Batch for a party:

• Combine 2 cups bourbon + ½ cup simple syrup in a pitcher.

• Add mint just before serving.

• Stir into individual glasses with crushed ice and garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this alcohol-free?
Yes! Try replacing bourbon with brewed black tea or apple juice for a minty mocktail.

What’s the best bourbon for a Mint Julep?
Woodford Reserve is traditional, but Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, or Old Forester are great too.

Do I really need crushed ice?
Yes! It chills the drink properly and gives the julep its unique, slushy-like texture.

Can I make it sweeter or less strong?
Absolutely—adjust the simple syrup to your taste and add more ice to dilute it slightly.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Mint Julep

The Classic Mint Julep Recipe is more than just a drink—it’s a Southern icon. With its cool, minty freshness and bold bourbon flavor, it’s the kind of cocktail that turns ordinary moments into special ones. Whether you’re toasting the Derby or just soaking up a sunny afternoon, this julep is a tradition worth keeping.

More Southern Sips to Try

• Bourbon Peach Smash

• Sweet Tea Vodka Lemonade

• Strawberry Basil Mojito

Share Your Mint Juleps!

I’d love to see how you make yours! Share your creations on Pinterest or tag me in your Derby Day photos. Don’t forget to leave a review below if you try this recipe—your feedback makes my day!

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 180

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Sugar: 5g

• Alcohol: 14g

• Sodium: 0mg

Classic Mint Julep Recipe

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 cocktail 1x

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Description

Classic Mint Julep Recipe is the iconic cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, but it’s also a refreshing, simple sipper that belongs on every porch and patio all summer long. With bold bourbon, cooling mint, and a slushy mountain of crushed ice, this Southern staple is tradition in a glass.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 oz Kentucky bourbon (Woodford Reserve is traditional)
• ½ oz simple syrup (or 1 sugar cube with a splash of water)
• 8–10 fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
• Crushed ice (lots!)
• Optional: powdered sugar (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a julep cup or rocks glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with simple syrup. Avoid over-crushing to prevent bitterness.
2. Pour in the bourbon and stir to combine.
3. Fill the glass to the top with crushed ice, gently mounding it into a dome shape.
4. Stir well until the glass becomes frosty and chilled.
5. Garnish with a sprig of mint, gently slapped between palms to release aroma, and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
6. Serve immediately with a short straw to enjoy the full mint aroma.

Notes

Use high-quality bourbon for the best flavor. Chill your glass or julep cup in advance for maximum frostiness. Fresh mint is essential—never use dried. If batching for a party, combine 2 cups bourbon with ½ cup simple syrup in a pitcher and add mint just before serving.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Drinks
• Method: Stirred
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cocktail
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: classic mint julep recipe, bourbon cocktail, kentucky derby drink, southern cocktails