This classic bourbon cocktail is synonymous with the first weekend of May and the Kentucky Derby, but with fresh mint, a touch of simple syrup, and your favorite bourbon it’s a refreshing drink you can enjoy all year. While this site usually shares family-friendly beverages like pina colada smoothies and homemade iced mochas, this mint julep recipe is for adults.
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Why this mint julep recipe is the best
This is a straightforward, reliable mint julep that delivers every time. With just a few simple ingredients—bourbon you enjoy, clean simple syrup, fresh mint, and crushed ice—you’ll get an authentic, balanced cocktail. Focus on quality mint and bourbon, use crushed ice, and the result will be a perfect julep.
“Some folks will tell you a mint julep has powdered sugar and some people tell you to buy a bottle of pre-made mint julep mix that you just pour over ice and add a sprig of mint too. But those of us raised in Kentucky know the tried and true recipe…”
-Karen Katz, Louisville native, foodie and awesome person all around
Ingredients
A few quick notes on the ingredients:
- Simple syrup: You can buy it or make it at home. Simple syrup is equal parts water and sugar. I make it with one cup water and one cup sugar, bring it to a simmer until the sugar dissolves, then cool. Store in the fridge for up to a month.
- Bourbon: Use a bourbon you like to drink. It doesn’t need to be the most expensive bottle—since it’s mixed, a mid-shelf bourbon you enjoy will work beautifully.
How to make a classic mint julep
Step-by-step photos are included to guide you through each stage.
Begin with a mason jar or a traditional mint julep cup. Place the mint leaves in the bottom of the glass and muddle them gently to release the essential oils—avoid crushing the leaves into bits.
Add the simple syrup and the bourbon, then stir briefly to combine.
Fill the glass with crushed ice, pack it slightly, then add a splash more bourbon on top and garnish with a sprig of mint.
Serve immediately—mint juleps are best enjoyed cold and fresh. They’re perfect for watching the Kentucky Derby or for any warm-weather gathering.
For exact measurements and a printable recipe card, see the recipe section below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choose the best bourbon you can comfortably afford and enjoy. Some commonly recommended bottles for mixing include Elijah Craig, Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel, or Knob Creek Single Barrel, but any bourbon you like will work.
Muddle gently to release the oils and aroma without shredding the leaves. Use a muddler if you have one; the end of a wooden spoon or spatula will also work.
Yes—with care. Mix the simple syrup and bourbon together in advance in the same ratio as the recipe and store in the fridge. When serving, muddle fresh mint in each glass, add the bourbon mixture, top with crushed ice, and garnish. Don’t add ice to the pitcher, and muddle mint fresh for each drink to preserve flavor.
How to make crushed ice
If your refrigerator makes crushed ice, collect and store it in a freezer bag so you’re ready when guests arrive. A blender or food processor will also crush ice quickly—pulse until you reach the desired texture. You can buy bags of crushed ice from many convenience stores, or crush ice at home by placing cubes in a sealed bag and pounding them with a mallet.
Make a kid friendly mocktail
To make a non-alcoholic version, substitute the bourbon with ginger ale or a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative. Combine with simple syrup, fresh mint, and crushed ice for a refreshing mocktail everyone can enjoy.
One more simple tip
If you have extra mint, make mint-infused simple syrup by adding mint leaves to the pot while cooking the syrup. It’s great in juleps, iced tea, cocktails, or even mint chocolate chip ice cream when finely chopped and mixed in.
Looking for more Kentucky-inspired recipes? Try Not Derby Pie or Strawberry Coffee Cake for more Southern flavors.
If you make this recipe and enjoy it, please leave a comment or a five-star rating—your feedback is appreciated!
📖 Recipe
Classic Mint Julep
Marni Katz
Ingredients
- 1 oz simple syrup more or less depending on your taste
- 2 oz bourbon
- 4-5 mint leaves
- crushed ice enough to fill glass
Instructions
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Add mint leaves to the glass and muddle gently to release the oils.
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Add the simple syrup and bourbon and stir to combine.
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Pack the glass with crushed ice until full.
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Add a splash more bourbon on top and garnish with a sprig of mint. Serve immediately.
Notes
To make simple syrup: combine equal parts water and sugar in a small pot, bring to a simmer until the sugar dissolves, cool, and refrigerate. Use in cocktails, iced tea, or iced coffee.
Nutrition
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