Mint julep
Refreshingly classic Mint Julep recipe: Enjoy a perfect blend of fresh spearmint, water, sugar, and smooth whiskey. Ideal for sipping on a warm day or any special occasion. Easy to make and delightfully minty.
- 14 Sep 2025
- Cook time 5 min
- Prep time 5 min
- 4 Servings
- 4 Ingredients
The Mint Julep is a classic cocktail that is synonymous with the American South and is especially popular during the Kentucky Derby. With its refreshing blend of mint, sugar, water, and whiskey, the Mint Julep is a perfect drink to enjoy on a warm day. This recipe will guide you through the simple steps to create this iconic beverage at home.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1.1. Begin by making a simple syrup infused with mint. In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar.
1.2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar fully dissolves into the water.
1.3. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the fresh spearmint leaves to the saucepan.
1.4. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the mint flavor is infused into the syrup.
1.5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cool, strain the syrup to remove the mint leaves, and transfer the syrup into a container. You can refrigerate this mint syrup if you wish to use it later.
2.1. In a julep cup or a highball glass, add a few fresh mint leaves and a small amount of the prepared mint syrup (around 1-2 tablespoons, depending on your sweetness preference).
2.2. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently bruise the mint leaves. This releases the essential oils, enhancing the minty flavor.
2.3. Fill the glass with crushed ice until it’s about three-quarters full.
2.4. Pour the whiskey over the ice and mint syrup mixture.
2.5. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
3.1. Top up the glass with more crushed ice, mounding it slightly over the rim of the glass.
3.2. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
3.3. Insert a straw or sip directly from the glass, savoring the refreshing flavors.
Tips:
- Use fresh spearmint leaves for the best flavor. The freshness of the mint is key to the cocktail's signature taste.
- Crushed ice is ideal for a Mint Julep. It helps to chill the drink quickly and dilutes it at the right pace.
- When muddling the mint, be gentle. You want to release the oils without tearing the leaves too much, which can make the drink bitter.
- A silver or pewter julep cup is traditional and helps keep the drink icy cold, but any glass will work in a pinch.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness by experimenting with the amount of sugar syrup to suit your taste preferences.
Crafting a Mint Julep is a delightful experience that blends simplicity with tradition. By following this recipe and keeping these tips in mind, you can create a refreshing and authentic Mint Julep that’s sure to impress your guests or provide a soothing moment of relaxation for yourself. Enjoy this classic cocktail as you take a moment to unwind.
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 200 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 180kcal | 9% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 0.09g | 0% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 44g | 12% |
| Fiber 0.00g | 0% |
| Sugar 44g | 43% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 0.17g | 0% |
| Saturated 0.01g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 0.00mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 0.00ug | 0% |
| Choline 0.78mg | 0% |
| Vitamin B1 0.01mg | 1% |
| Vitamin B2 0.01mg | 1% |
| Vitamin B3 0.00mg | 0% |
| Vitamin B6 0.00mg | 0% |
| Vitamin B9 0.00ug | 0% |
| Vitamin B12 0.00ug | 0% |
| Vitamin C 2.33mg | 3% |
| Vitamin E 0.00mg | 0% |
| Vitamin K 0.00ug | 0% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 8mg | 1% |
| Copper, Cu 0.01mg | 1% |
| Iron, Fe 0.11mg | 1% |
| Magnesium, Mg 2.11mg | 1% |
| Phosphorus, P 5mg | 0% |
| Potassium, K 130mg | 4% |
| Selenium, Se 0.50ug | 1% |
| Sodium, Na 90mg | 6% |
| Zinc, Zn 0.06mg | 1% |
| Water | |
| Water 130g | - |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |
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