Sip some Southern charm with our recipe for the Classic Mint Julep—a spirited blend of fresh mint, powdered sugar, a splash of water and, of course, the robust kick of bourbon.
Ever had a drink and instantly felt like you’re sitting on a Southern porch basking in the sun? If you did, I’m willing to bet that drink was the Classic Mint Julep; that’s what it was like for me. It’s fresh mint and a smack of bourbon all stirred up in a tall glass. It’s sunshine with Southern charm. It’s… the next drink you HAVE to try. Trust me on this one.
Now, you may wonder what separates the Mint Julep from a mint cocktail like a Mojito or a Southside? Fair, but trust me when I say that the Classic Mint Julep is in its own league. It’s got that strong bourbon touch, balanced perfectly with a bit of sugar and lots of fresh mint. Not a fad drink, the Mint Julep is always in style.
How to Make a Healthy/Low-Calorie Mint Julep
- Switch that powdered sugar for a low-cal sweetener or honey.
- Cut back on the bourbon and up your mint and ice factor.
- For a Mint Julep Mocktail, simply drop the bourbon or go in search of a non-alcoholic version.
Tips & Tricks to Making a Perfect Mint Julep
- Use premium bourbon for a smoother, richer taste.
- Use fresh mint for the best refreshing flavor.
- Speaking of mint, when muddling the mint with the sugar and water, apply light pressure and be careful not to shred the leaves.
- Use cracked ice instead of regular ice cubes to chill evenly without over-diluting the bourbon.
- Stir well to make the glass frosty, which will keep your drink cold longer.
How to make ahead and store?
If you’re playing host for a big crowd, you can prepare the mint, sugar, and water mix a day ahead. Just remember to add the bourbon and ice right before you serve it up.
Because of the diluting power of the ice, a Classic Mint Julep won’t store well, so distribute what’s left to your guests. If you have some of that mint, sugar, and water mix left, you can store it in the fridge for a day or two.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 ounces bourbon
- 6 fresh mint leaves
- 1 teaspoon powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoon water
Instructions
- In a highball glass gently muddle the mint, sugar, and water.
- Fill the glass with cracked ice and bourbon. Stir well until the glass is frosty.
- Garnish with a mint sprig. Serve with a straw.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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