Refreshing Mint Julep Cocktail
A classic Southern cocktail featuring fresh mint and smooth bourbon, perfect for warm weather and easy to make at home.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Cocktail
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8–10 fresh mint leaves
- 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon whiskey (e.g., Buffalo Trace or Maker’s Mark)
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water)
- Crushed ice
- Optional splash of water
Instructions
- Prepare the simple syrup by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves. Let cool and store in the fridge.
- In a julep cup or old-fashioned glass, place 8-10 fresh mint leaves and 1/2 oz simple syrup. Gently muddle the mint to bruise the leaves and release oils, about 20 seconds.
- Add 2 oz bourbon to the glass and stir gently to mix.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice, mounding slightly above the rim.
- Stir gently to chill the drink evenly.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig, gently slapped between palms to release aroma.
- Serve immediately while cold and frosty.
Notes
Use gentle muddling to avoid bitterness from mint stems. Crushed ice is essential for proper chilling and dilution. Chill the glass beforehand for best results. Adjust sweetness with simple syrup to taste. Fresh mint is key; dried mint is not recommended.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail (about 6-
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 6
- Carbohydrates: 6
Keywords: Mint Julep, bourbon cocktail, refreshing drink, Southern cocktail, easy cocktail recipe, bourbon, mint, simple syrup