The mint julep: a refreshing, classic cocktail that’s perfect for sipping on a warm summer day. But why stick to just one version when you can have 17 more? In this article, we’re shaking things up (pun intended) with 18 easy mint julep recipes, each with its own unique twist and flavor profile. From classic bourbon-based drinks to fruity and bubbly concoctions, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creative cocktails.
Whether you’re a Southern belle or just looking to add some down-home charm to your next gathering, these refreshing drinks are sure to hit the spot. So grab your mint leaves, bourbon (or alternative spirits), and sugar – it’s time to get julep-ing!
Classic Bourbon Mint Julep
A refreshing twist on the traditional cocktail, this classic bourbon mint julep is perfect for warm weather gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup
– 1/2 cup crushed ice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Crushed ice (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a julep cup or highball glass, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the simple syrup and bourbon whiskey. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
3. Fill the cup with crushed ice. Stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (serves chilled)
Sparkling Honey Mint Julep
A refreshing twist on the classic mint julep, this sparkling honey version adds a touch of sweetness and effervescence to this beloved cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/4 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– 2 sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– Sparkling water, chilled
Instructions:
1. Muddle the mint leaves with the honey syrup in a cocktail shaker.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey and lime juice to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Top off with chilled sparkling water.
6. Garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Peach-Infused Mint Julep
Elevate the classic mint julep by adding sweet and refreshing peach flavor to this summer cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh mint leaves
– 1 ripe peach, sliced
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1 ounce simple syrup
– 2 dashes of peach bitters (optional)
– Crushed ice
– Whipped cream and additional mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or wooden spoon to release oils and flavor.
2. Add sliced peaches to the pitcher and muddle again to combine flavors.
3. Add bourbon whiskey, simple syrup, and peach bitters (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. Fill glasses with crushed ice and pour the peach-infused mint julep mixture over the ice.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in seconds!)
Non-Alcoholic Mint Julep Mocktail
Elevate your summer gatherings with this revitalizing mocktail that captures the essence of the iconic mint julep, minus the booze. With its soothing blend of fresh mint and sweet tea, you’ll be sipping in style without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups brewed sweet tea
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pitcher with ice cubes.
2. Add the brewed sweet tea, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the chopped fresh mint leaves and stir gently to release their fragrance and flavor.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Non-Alcoholic Mint Julep Mocktail over ice in tall glasses, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None! This mocktail is ready to serve as soon as you’ve assembled the ingredients and chilled it for 30 minutes.
Ginger-Orange Mint Julep
This unique julep combines the spicy warmth of ginger with the brightness of orange and the cooling effect of mint, perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you need a refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Orange wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils.
2. Add the grated ginger and stir to combine.
3. Add the orange liqueur, bourbon, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
4. Fill glasses with crushed ice and pour the julep mixture over the ice.
5. Garnish each glass with an orange wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just chill and serve!)
Blackberry Mint Julep
The Blackberry Mint Julep is a unique and revitalizing take on the traditional Kentucky Derby drink. This sweet and tangy cocktail combines the freshness of mint, the juiciness of blackberries, and the smoothness of bourbon to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup blackberry puree
– Crushed ice
– Whipped cream and additional mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add bourbon, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with crushed ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with blackberry puree and garnish with whipped cream and additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Lemonade Mint Julep
This sweet and tangy twist on the traditional mint julep is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a refreshing pick-me-up. The addition of lemonade adds a bright and citrusy flavor to this classic cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup freshly brewed mint tea, cooled
– 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Lemon slices or mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine crushed ice, bourbon whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and mint tea.
2. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the ice has melted slightly.
3. Add the chopped fresh mint leaves and stir gently to distribute evenly.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
5. Pour into glasses filled with crushed ice and garnish with lemon slices or mint sprigs.
Cooking Time: None, just chill and serve!
Basil-Enhanced Mint Julep
This Basil-Enhanced Mint Julep combines the cooling flavors of mint and basil with the smoothness of bourbon, creating a unique and refreshing twist on a classic cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Crushed ice
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, gently press the mint and basil leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavors.
2. Add the bourbon and simple syrup to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Fill the mixing glass with crushed ice and stir for 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with additional mint and basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Coconut Mint Julep
Combine the cooling flavors of mint and coconut with this unique spin on the traditional julep. Perfect for warm weather or any time you need a refreshing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz coconut cream
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– Handful of fresh mint leaves
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a julep cup or highball glass, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the bourbon, lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill the glass with crushed ice.
3. Stir until the ice is melted and the mixture is well combined.
4. Top with coconut cream and stir gently to create a layered effect.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just 5 minutes.
Spiced Rum Mint Julep
This refreshing twist on the classic mint julep combines the spicy warmth of rum with the cooling essence of mint, perfect for a warm summer evening. With its subtle spices and hint of sweetness, this cocktail is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz spiced rum
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 2 sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– Crushed ice
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the spiced rum, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with crushed ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Raspberry-Champagne Mint Julep
This sweet and tangy twist on the classic mint julep combines the flavors of fresh raspberries, champagne, and peppermint to create a unique and refreshing cocktail perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1 cup crushed ice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup champagne
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the raspberries with a spoon or muddler to release their juice and flavor.
2. Add the crushed ice, simple syrup, and mint leaves to the shaker. Muddle until the mint is well-combined and the mixture is well-chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a silver cup filled with crushed ice.
4. Top with champagne and stir gently.
5. Add a splash of club soda and garnish with additional fresh raspberries and mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prepare in advance)
Iced Green Tea Mint Julep
This twist on the classic mint julep combines the soothing qualities of green tea with the invigorating flavor of fresh mint, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart brewed green tea
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine brewed green tea, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add crushed ice to the pitcher and stir until the mixture is chilled.
3. Muddle (gently press) 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves into the pitcher using a muddler or the back of a spoon.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Iced Green Tea Mint Julep mixture over the ice.
5. Stir gently and garnish each glass with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Lavender Mint Julep
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic mint julep, infused with the subtle sweetness of lavender. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a delightful drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– Crushed ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves and lavender buds with a muddler or spoon to release their flavors.
2. Add bourbon whiskey, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with crushed ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled julep cup or highball glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lavender bud, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, so no cooking required.
Tropical Pineapple Mint Julep
Escape to a tropical oasis with this refreshing twist on the classic mint julep. This sweet and tangy cocktail combines the bright flavors of pineapple, mint, and bourbon for a truly unique drinking experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz fresh pineapple juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar water)
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Pineapple wedges and mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, pineapple juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add crushed ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a julep cup or highball glass filled with crushed ice.
4. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and mint sprigs.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Cucumber-Mint Julep
Beat the heat with this unique and revitalizing twist on the classic julep recipe. This Cucumber-Mint Julep combines the cooling effects of cucumber and mint with the sweet charm of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– Crushed ice
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. In a julep cup or highball glass, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the bourbon, simple syrup, and lime juice. Fill the cup with crushed ice.
3. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the ice is just starting to melt.
4. Add the diced cucumber and stir gently to combine.
5. Top with a splash of club soda and garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (depending on serving size)
Whiskey and Thyme Mint Julep
Elevate your Derby Day celebrations with this refreshing twist on the classic mint julep, featuring the smoothness of whiskey and the warmth of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon thyme syrup (see note)
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. In a julep cup, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the crushed ice, whiskey, thyme syrup, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
3. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the ice is crushed.
4. Top with club soda and garnish with additional mint leaves and a sprig of thyme, if desired.
Note: To make thyme syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup fresh thyme leaves in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool before using.
Maple Syrup Mint Julep
This refreshing twist on the classic mint julep adds a touch of sweetness and sophistication with the use of pure maple syrup. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique cocktail for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
– 4-6 mint leaves
– Crushed ice
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher or jug, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the bourbon, lime juice, and maple syrup to the pitcher. Stir until well combined.
3. Fill glasses with crushed ice and pour the julep mixture over the ice.
4. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep), 0 minutes (cook)
Berry-Burst Mint Julep
Elevate your Derby Day celebrations with this refreshing twist on the classic mint julep. This berry-infused cocktail combines the coolness of mint with the sweetness of summer berries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz lemon juice
– Crushed ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the oils and flavor.
2. Add the mixed berries, bourbon whiskey, simple syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with crushed ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled silver cup or julep cup.
5. Garnish with additional mint leaves and a few fresh berries.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and serve!
Summary
Experience the refreshing twist on a classic Southern cocktail with these 18 easy mint julep recipes. From the original Bourbon Mint Julep to innovative flavors like Sparkling Honey, Peach-Infused, and Cucumber-Mint, there’s something for every taste. Try substituting whiskey with spiced rum or whiskey and thyme for added depth. Non-alcoholic options include a refreshing mocktail and iced green tea versions. Get creative with herbs like basil and lavender, or indulge in sweet treats like raspberry-champagne and maple syrup mint juleps. Whatever your taste, there’s a mint julep recipe to quench your thirst.
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