Whether you’re marking the Kentucky Derby (rescheduled to September 4, 2020) or simply craving a cool, refreshing adult summer cocktail, this mint julep recipe delivers. You can easily adjust the sweetness and bourbon strength to suit your taste. At our house we prefer them on the sweeter, lighter side. For children or those avoiding alcohol, make a virgin version using iced tea or another non-alcoholic substitute.
Link You May Need:
Fresh Mint Ice Cream Recipe
Is Bourbon Gluten Free?
Bourbon is typically made from gluten-containing grains, but the distillation process removes gluten proteins for most people with gluten sensitivity. If you are sensitive to gluten or prefer to avoid bourbon, substitute brandy or use iced tea for a non-alcoholic mint julep. Both alternatives offer a similar color and work well in the recipe.
Mint Julep
Host a relaxed gathering and serve this surprisingly delicious mint julep. Guests can easily tailor sweetness and spirit strength, making it a crowd-pleasing, customizable cocktail.
Ingredients
-
1
recipe simple syrup
increase sugar if you prefer a sweeter drink -
Fresh mint
leaves removed from stems as needed -
Kentucky bourbon
Maker’s Mark is a popular choice; substitute brandy if avoiding bourbon, or iced tea for a virgin version - Crushed ice
-
Water
optional, to dilute slightly if desired
Instructions
-
At least one day before serving, prepare the simple syrup. If you like a sweeter cocktail, increase the sugar when making the syrup. Chill the syrup in the refrigerator overnight.
-
Place 4 to 6 fresh mint leaves and 1 to 2 ounces of the sweet simple syrup in each glass. Adjust quantities to taste and to the glass size. Use a cocktail muddler (or a pestle or wooden spoon) to gently crush the mint leaves and release their essential oils.
-
Add 1 to 2 ounces of bourbon, and about 1 tablespoon of water if you prefer a milder drink. Fill the glass halfway with crushed ice, then stir vigorously until the outside of the glass frosts. Pack ice to the top, garnish with a sprig or leaf of mint, and insert a straw suited to the glass height. Serve immediately with a cocktail napkin.
-
For refills, you can leave the muddled mint in the glass. Simply add more syrup and spirit as needed and muddle again. The mint tends to settle at the bottom over time.
-
If you have extra mint, consider making fresh mint ice cream (see the link above) or using it with lamb dishes. To preserve mint, place a few small stems in a glass of water in a sunny spot, changing the water weekly. Once roots form—typically in about two weeks—plant the mint in soil.