Classic Mint Julep Recipe

This simple mint julep recipe is fast, refreshing, and delicious! The Kentucky Derby’s signature cocktail is perfect for cooling off all summer. Ready in 5 minutes!

What’s in a mint julep?

Kentucky bourbon, fresh mint, simple syrup, ice, and club soda.

This Kentucky Mint julep recipe can be served on the rocks or over crushed ice… whatever is easiest for you.

I thought we had a muddler somewhere, but I couldn’t find it, so I improvised and muddled the mint with a pestle (from my pestle + mortar). 😛

How to make mint julep simple syrup

Add equal parts granulated sugar and water to a small pan. Boil until the sugar has absorbed. Let it cool and then transfer it to a sealed container (such as a mason jar). It makes more than enough for this recipe, and you can store the rest in the fridge for about a month.

How to make a mint julep drink

Add the fresh mint leaves to your glass; pour in the sugar syrup and muddle to release the aroma from the mint. Add the ice to the glass and then pour in the bourbon. Top up with club soda and garnish with a sprig of mint.

Do you like the mint julep cocktail? Let me know in the comments below if you’ve made this easy mint julep recipe!

Questions? Feel free to ask!

5 from 1 vote

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Classic Mint Julep Recipe

This simple mint julep recipe is fast, refreshing, and delicious! The Kentucky Derby's signature cocktail is perfect for cooling off all summer.

Course Drink

Cuisine American

Keyword classic mint julep, mint julep recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Servings 1 drink

Author Salt & Lavender

Ingredients

• 10 mint leaves
• 1 ounce simple syrup (see note on how to make it)
• 1 ounce Kentucky bourbon
• Club soda for topping up
• Crushed or shaved ice

Instructions

1. In a glass, add the mint leaves. Tear any large leaves in half. 
2. Pour in your simple syrup.
3. Muddle the leaves in the glass to release the mint flavor. The muddling takes a good 2-3 minutes. I used a pestle to do this since I couldn't find my cocktail muddler.
4. Fill the glass with the crushed ice almost to the top.
5. Add in your favorite Kentucky bourbon.
6. Top up with club soda; stir to mix everything together. Garnish with a sprig of mint and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

• This recipe is for a 6 ounce glass. If you're using a 9 ounce glass, use 1.5 ounces simple syrup and 1.5 ounces bourbon. 
• How to make simple syrup: Add equal parts sugar and water to a small pan (I did 3/4 cup sugar and 3/4 cup water - it makes plenty of syrup). Boil until dissolved; let it cool and transfer to a sealed container (e.g. mason jar) and store in the fridge for up to about a month. 

If you like refreshing cocktails, you may also like my grapefruit Irish Mule recipe.