Mint Julep
The mint julep cocktail is made with bourbon and sweetened with simple syrup. I like to use a minty homemade simple syrup which you can make ahead with this recipe and store in the refrigerator. This refreshing cocktail deserves to be served in frozen silver goblets or the most elegant glasses you have — perfect for Kentucky Derby viewing!
Ingredients
Mint Simple Syrup:
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups white sugar
- ½ cup roughly chopped fresh mint leaves
Cocktails:
- 8 cups crushed ice or as needed
- 32 fluid ounces Kentucky bourbon
- 8 sprigs fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
- Gather the ingredients.
- Make the simple syrup ahead of when you plan to serve: Bring water, sugar, and chopped mint to a boil over high heat in a small saucepan.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar is completely dissolved, 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool .
- Pour syrup through a strainer to remove mint leaves.
- To make the mint juleps: Fill eight glasses with crushed ice; pour 4 ounces bourbon and 1/4 cup mint syrup into each cup.
- Top each drink with a mint sprig.
Notes
Cook’s Note
Add extra syrup for anyone with a sweet tooth.
If you use silver goblets, chill them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before serving. Handle frozen goblets with a clean towel, holding them by their edges so you don't mar the lovely frosted surface.