As the temperatures rise and summer finally arrives, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing glass of mint julep to quench your thirst. This classic cocktail has been a staple of Kentucky Derby parties for over a century, but its popularity extends far beyond just one day at the races. With the simple combination of mint leaves, sugar, water, and crushed ice, it’s easy to see why this drink has become a summer favorite. But why settle for just one recipe when you can try them all? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 unique and delicious mint julep recipes, each with its own twist and flavor profile. From classic Kentucky-style drinks to fruity and spicy variations, there’s something for everyone in this collection of refreshing summer treats.
Classic Kentucky Mint Julep
The quintessential cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, the Classic Mint Julep is a refreshing and flavorful drink that combines bourbon, mint, sugar, and crushed ice. This timeless recipe has been enjoyed by horse racing fans and enthusiasts alike for generations.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces good-quality bourbon
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
– Crushed ice
Instructions:
1. In a silver or stainless steel cup, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the simple syrup and stir until well combined.
3. Pour in the bourbon and fill the cup with crushed ice.
4. Stir briefly to chill and combine the ingredients.
5. Garnish with additional fresh mint sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Bourbon Peach Mint Julep
Experience the refreshing essence of summer with this unique twist on the classic julep recipe, combining the sweetness of peaches and bourbon with the cooling zest of mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 cup fresh peach puree
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 6-8 sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large metal julep cup or Collins glass, gently press the crushed ice into the bottom.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey and peach puree to the cup.
3. Add the simple syrup and stir until well combined.
4. Place 2-3 sprigs of fresh mint leaves on top of the mixture.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (ready in seconds!)
Strawberry Mint Julep
This sweet and tangy twist on the classic mint julep is perfect for warm weather. Fresh strawberries and mint combine to create a refreshing drink that’s sure to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 1/2 cups crushed ice
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 cup club soda
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, gently muddle the mint leaves with a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the sliced strawberries and muddle again to combine.
3. Add the crushed ice, bourbon whiskey, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Top with club soda and stir gently.
5. Serve immediately over crushed ice in tall glasses.
Cooking Time: None
Spiced Honey Mint Julep
This refreshing twist on the classic mint julep combines the sweetness of honey and spices with the cooling freshness of mint, perfect for warm weather sipping.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a julep cup or highball glass with crushed ice.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey, lime juice, and honey syrup. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the ground cinnamon and cardamom. Stir again to distribute evenly.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply stir and serve.
Ginger Lime Mint Julep
This refreshing twist on the classic mint julep combines the spicy warmth of ginger with the brightness of lime and the coolness of mint, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup fresh ginger syrup (see note)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine crushed ice and bourbon whiskey.
2. Add lime juice and ginger syrup; stir until well combined.
3. Add chopped mint leaves; stir gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as needed.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour julep mixture over the ice.
6. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Note: To make fresh ginger syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1/2 cup sugar and 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger in a saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until syrupy. Strain and store in the refrigerator.
Blackberry Basil Mint Julep
This sweet and savory cocktail combines the flavors of blackberries, basil, and mint for a unique and refreshing twist on the classic julep. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion where a flavorful drink is desired.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup fresh blackberry puree
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Ice
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. Muddle the mint and basil leaves together in a cocktail shaker.
2. Add the bourbon, simple syrup, and blackberry puree to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a julep cup or highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with additional mint leaves and a blackberry, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Pineapple Coconut Mint Julep
Escape to the tropics with this unique spin on the classic mint julep, combining sweet pineapple and creamy coconut with refreshing mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 1/4 cup crushed mint leaves
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, lime juice, simple syrup, and pineapple juice.
2. Add crushed ice and shake until well combined and chilled.
3. Strain into a julep cup or highball glass filled with ice cubes.
4. Top with coconut cream and garnish with crushed mint leaves and a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.
Raspberry Rose Mint Julep
Experience the sweet charm of spring with this unique julep recipe, combining the tartness of raspberries, the elegance of rose petals, and the freshness of mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup rose syrup (or 1 tablespoon dried rose petals steeped in 1 cup water)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons bourbon or whiskey
– 2 tablespoons simple syrup
– Crushed ice
– Edible flowers or mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the raspberries until smooth.
2. Strain the raspberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp.
3. In a large glass filled with crushed ice, combine the rose syrup (or infused water), mint leaves, bourbon or whiskey, and simple syrup.
4. Add the strained raspberry puree to the glass.
5. Stir gently for 30 seconds to combine flavors.
6. Garnish with edible flowers or mint sprigs.
Cooking Time: None
Apple Cider Mint Julep
This sweet and tangy Apple Cider Mint Julep is a perfect drink for warm weather. With the flavors of crisp apple cider, cooling mint, and a hint of bourbon, this refreshing cocktail is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Whipped cream and additional mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, apple cider, and lime juice.
2. Fill the glass with crushed ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture.
3. Strain the mixture into a julep cup or highball glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and whipped cream (if desired).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Bean Mint Julep
Escape to the Kentucky Derby with this unique spin on the classic mint julep, featuring the added warmth of vanilla bean. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for hot summer days or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz fresh mint syrup (see below)
– 1/2 oz vanilla extract
– 2 dashes of club soda
– Crushed ice
– Fresh mint leaves and powdered sugar for garnish
Mint Syrup Recipe:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
Combine sugar, water, and mint in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with crushed ice, combine bourbon, mint syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a julep cup or highball glass filled with crushed ice.
4. Top with club soda.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: None
Blueberry Lavender Mint Julep
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this refreshing Blueberry Lavender Mint Julep recipe. This unique twist on the classic julep combines the bold flavors of blueberries, lavender, and mint to create a truly unforgettable drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Sparkling water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, gently muddle the blueberries and lavender buds together until well combined.
2. Add the crushed ice to the bowl and stir until the mixture is well chilled.
3. Add the fresh mint leaves and bourbon whiskey to the bowl, stirring until well combined.
4. Stir in the simple syrup until dissolved.
5. Top with sparkling water and garnish with additional blueberries and mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Watermelon Mint Julep
Cool down with this unique twist on the traditional mint julep. The sweetness of watermelon pairs perfectly with the freshness of mint, creating a refreshing summer drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 cup crushed ice
– 2 ounces bourbon whiskey (optional)
– Sparkling water
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. Add the mint leaves and blend until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher.
4. Add sugar and stir to dissolve.
5. Fill glasses with crushed ice and pour in the watermelon mixture.
6. Top with bourbon whiskey, if desired, and finish with sparkling water.
7. Garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Mint Julep
This twist on the classic mint julep combines the cooling effects of peppermint and chocolate for a unique and refreshing drink perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1/4 cup peppermint schnapps
– 1/4 cup Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, muddled
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Whipped cream and additional crushed mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large glass or julep cup with crushed ice.
2. Add the peppermint schnapps, white chocolate liqueur, and muddled mint leaves.
3. Top with simple syrup.
4. Stir gently to combine and chill.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready in just a few minutes.
Cherry Almond Mint Julep
This Cherry Almond Mint Julep combines the sweetness of cherries and almonds with the cooling touch of mint, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a refreshing cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 ounce cherry liqueur
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a julep cup or highball glass, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or spoon to release oils and flavor.
2. Add crushed ice to the cup, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
3. Pour in bourbon whiskey, cherry liqueur, almond extract, and simple syrup.
4. Stir briefly to combine.
5. Garnish with a cherry and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (simply mix and serve)
Lemon Verbena Mint Julep
This citrusy spin on the traditional mint julep is perfect for warm weather gatherings. The brightness of lemon verbena and the cooling effect of mint come together to create a unique and refreshing cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup dried lemon verbena leaves
– Whipped cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher or container, combine crushed ice, bourbon whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add fresh mint leaves and dried lemon verbena leaves to the mixture.
3. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve the Lemon Verbena Mint Julep in a silver cup or highball glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and powdered sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Spicy Jalapeño Mint Julep
Elevate your julep game with this unique and refreshing twist, combining the coolness of mint with the spicy kick of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2-3 slices of jalapeño pepper
– Club soda
– Crushed ice 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 and flavor.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey, simple syrup, and crushed ice to the pitcher. Stir until the ice is fully incorporated.
3. Slice the jalapeños into thin pieces and add them to the pitcher. Muddle gently to combine.
4. Fill highball glasses with crushed ice and pour the julep mixture over the ice.
5. Top each glass off with a splash of club soda.
6. Garnish with additional mint leaves and jalapeño slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Orange Blossom Mint Julep
Combine the bright flavors of orange blossom water with the classic mint julep for a unique and refreshing twist on a summer staple. This Orange Blossom Mint Julep is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz orange blossom water
– 1/4 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Simple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large metal julep cup or highball glass, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release oils and flavor.
2. Add the crushed ice to the glass.
3. Pour in the bourbon whiskey, orange blossom water, and lime juice.
4. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to combine.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding simple syrup if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply serve and enjoy.
Pomegranate Mint Julep
A refreshing spin on the traditional mint julep, this pomegranate-infused cocktail combines the sweetness of fresh fruit with the cooling essence of peppermint. Perfect for warm weather or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup freshly brewed mint tea
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher or jug, combine crushed ice and bourbon whiskey.
2. Add pomegranate juice, mint tea, and simple syrup. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir again to redistribute the ingredients.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required! This cocktail is ready to enjoy as soon as it’s chilled.
Maple Bacon Mint Julep
This refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the smokiness of bacon, perfectly balanced by fresh mint. Perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 cup crushed ice
– 2-3 sprigs of fresh mint
– 4-6 slices of cooked bacon (preferably thick-cut)
– Whipped cream and additional mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, maple syrup, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with crushed ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
4. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs and crispy bacon slices.
5. Top with whipped cream and additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Earl Grey Tea Mint Julep
Escape to the Kentucky Derby with this unique take on the classic mint julep, infused with the citrusy goodness of Earl Grey tea. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Earl Grey tea, brewed and cooled
– 1 cup crushed ice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
– Sparkling water
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine brewed Earl Grey tea, crushed ice, and simple syrup. Stir until the syrup dissolves.
2. Add fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and muddle gently with a spoon to release their oils and flavors.
3. Add bourbon whiskey and stir well.
4. Fill julep cups or glasses with ice and pour the Earl Grey Tea Mint Julep mixture over the ice.
5. Top each cup off with sparkling water and garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus tea brewing time)
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing mint julep recipes! From classic Kentucky-style to unique flavor combinations like bourbon peach and strawberry, there’s something for everyone. Try spiced honey, ginger lime, or blackberry basil for a twist on the traditional recipe. Or go bold with spicy jalapeño or maple bacon for added depth of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a refreshing pick-me-up, these 20 mint julep recipes are sure to please.
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