A classic Mint Julep is simply bourbon, mint, simple syrup, and LOTS of crushed ice. Eventually, that crushed ice will begin to dilute the cocktail, but it’s worth mentioning that this is definitely a cocktail worth slowly savoring.
I'm sure you’ve heard that Mint Juleps are the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby. Don’t worry, no need to don an outrageous hat to enjoy this cocktail, unless you want to, of course. Traditionally, they’re served in a silver julep cup that becomes frosted over with all the crushed ice. As the ice slowly melts, the liquid infuses with the bourbon and mint oils creating a refreshing cocktail.
I like to add a little twist to this classic cocktail--not surprising, right? If you're making you're own simple syrup, try using coconut palm sugar. It adds a slight caramel taste to the cocktail, which blends nicely with the bourbon.
Ready to mix up a Maker's Mark mint julep?
FAQs:
Simple syrup is as simple as the name. It is simply 1 part water to 1 part sugar. Heat the sugar and water together in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool. You can store homemade simple syrup in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks in an air tight container. If you add flavor to the syrup, store for up to 2 weeks.
Since you’re definitely going to taste the bourbon in this drink, choose one that you like. I made mine with Maker’s Mark, a few others you might consider include: Woodford Reserve, Knob Creek, Old Forester, or Evan Williams.
Technically, no. While crushed ice is traditional in a Mint Julep, you could use cubes if you don’t have access to, or feel like making your own, crushed ice. The reason for the crushed ice is simply that it melts more quickly, adding liquid to the cocktail. If using a traditional julep glass, the crushed ice also facilitates a nice, frosty exterior.
Ingredients for a Maker's Mark Mint Julep:
- Bourbon: I prefer Maker's Mark, but use any whiskey that you like.
- Simple syrup: Adds a bit of sweetness to the cocktail.
- Mint leaves: It's the refreshing part of a mint julep.
- Bitters: Totally optional, but adds a bit more complexity.
How to Mix a Mint Julep:
Recipe Note: I highly recommend making the simply syrup at least the day before so you can refrigerate it. You don’t want to add warm liquid to your ice. For this recipe, simply combine ½ cup water with a ½ cup coconut palm sugar (or use regular white sugar) in a small sauce pan over medium heat. Heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 6-7 minutes. Remove from the heat, and allow to cool. Place in a jar, and store in the refrigerator until ready to use, up to 4 weeks.
- Lightly muddle 5-6 mint leaves with 1 ounce of simple syrup in the bottom of a rocks glass. Don’t muddle the mint too much, or it will become bitter. You just want to release the oils. Think of it more as giving the mint a light massage. Sprinkle in a few drops of bitters (optional), then add crushed ice to the glass, and pour your bourbon over the ice.
- Give the glass a few shakes with a cocktail shaker, then top off with more crushed ice and a sprig of mint. If you’d prefer to take the edge off a bit, top with a splash of club soda. Don’t worry, I won’t tell the purists 😉
Serving Suggestions:
- Best enjoyed on a warm summer day with good friends, Kentucky Derby party optional.
- Savor this one slowly—it’s potent!
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Recipe Notes:
- Consider serving your Mint Julep in a classic julep cup.
- I like the slight caramel flavor coconut palm sugar adds, but you can also use turbinado sugar for a similar flavor, or even white sugar. Note that the flavor will be slightly different depending on your sugar of choice.
- If you’re interested in some variations of the classic Mint Julep, check out Town and Country’s article How to Make the Ultimate Mint Julep. It definitely has some interesting twists.
- If you adhere to a strict gluten-free diet, check out Urban Taste Bud’s guide to gluten-free whiskey.
- Celiac.com also has an interesting article about gluten-free alcoholic beverages.
- Check out all the Cocktail and Drink recipes from Inspired Fresh Life.
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Mint Julep: How to Make this Classic Cocktail
A classic Mint Julep is a refreshing summer cocktail. You only need 3 ingredients: a good bourbon, mint, simple syrup, and LOTS of crushed ice.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup coconut palm sugar
- 16-20 mint leaves (plus a sprig for each garnish)
- 6-8 ounces bourbon
- 4 ounces simple syrup
- dash bitters (optional)
Instructions
- Note: I highly recommend making the simply syrup at least the day before so you can refrigerate it. You don’t want to add warm liquid to your ice. For this recipe, simply combine ¼ cup water with a ¼ cup coconut palm sugar in a small sauce pan over medium heat. Heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 6-7 minutes. Remove from the heat, and allow to cool. Place in a jar, and store in the refrigerator until ready to use, up to 4 weeks.
- Lightly muddle 5-6 mint leaves with 1 ounce of simple syrup in the bottom of a rocks glass. Don’t muddle the mint too much, or it will become bitter. You just want to release the oils. Think of it more as giving the mint a light massage. Sprinkle in a few drops of bitters (optional), then add crushed ice to the glass, and pour your bourbon over the ice.
- Give the glass a few shakes with a cocktail shaker, then top off with more crushed ice and a sprig of mint. If you’d prefer to take the edge off a bit, top with a splash of club soda. Don’t worry, I won’t tell the purists 😉
Notes
I like the slight caramel flavor coconut palm sugar adds, but you can also use turbinado sugar for a similar flavor, or even white sugar. Note that the flavor will be slightly different depending on your sugar of choice.
Nutrition Information
Yield 4 Serving Size 1Amount Per Serving Calories 868
Note: Nutritional information is an approximation. Different brands and/or quantities will change the nutrition profile.
Cathy
This would sure hit the spot tonight.