As the sun shines brighter and the temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing mint julep to quench your thirst and cool down. Whether you’re a fan of classic bourbon or prefer a non-alcoholic twist, we’ve got 20 delicious mint julep recipes to help you beat the heat this summer.
From sweet and creamy to tangy and citrusy, our collection of mint juleps is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. So why wait? Grab your favorite glassware, head to your backyard or patio, and get ready to indulge in a refreshing drink that’s perfect for hot summer days. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of mint julep recipes that are easy to make, fun to customize, and sure to become new favorites.
Classic Bourbon Mint Julep
Experience the quintessential Kentucky Derby tradition with this refreshing and potent cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves
– Crushed ice
– Club soda
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 bourbon whiskey and simple syrup to the cup.
3. Fill the cup with crushed ice.
4. Stir the mixture until it’s well-combined and the ice has started to melt slightly.
5. Top with club soda.
6. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just 5 minutes.
Simple Southern Mint Julep
Experience the refreshing charm of the South with this classic mint julep recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or everyday sipping.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• Club soda
Instructions:
1. In a silver or metal julep cup or glass, gently press the crushed ice to form an even layer.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey, chopped mint, and simple syrup on top of the ice.
3. Stir the mixture with a spoon until the ingredients are well combined and the mint is evenly distributed.
4. Top the julep off with club soda.
5. Garnish with additional mint leaves or a sprig, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and enjoy!
Spiced Honey Mint Julep
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic julep, featuring warm spices and a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. In a silver cup or julep cup, combine crushed ice and bourbon whiskey.
2. Add honey syrup, cinnamon, and cardamom; stir until the honey dissolves and the mixture is well combined.
3. Muddle in 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves to release their oils and flavor.
4. Top with club soda and garnish with a sprig of mint.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Sparkling Peach Mint Julep
Transform a classic mint julep into a refreshing summer treat with the addition of peaches and sparkling water.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
– 2 slices of ripe peach, pureed
– Sparkling water
– Fresh mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine crushed ice, bourbon whiskey, and simple syrup.
2. Add the pureed peaches and fresh mint leaves to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled silver cup or julep cup filled with crushed ice.
5. Top with sparkling water and garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Enjoy your Sparkling Peach Mint Julep!
Non-Alcoholic Fresh Mint Julep
A refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, this non-alcoholic version of the Julep is perfect for warm weather and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the fresh mint leaves with a spoon or a muddler to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the sparkling water and lemon-lime soda to the pitcher.
3. Stir in the honey until it’s fully dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve the Julep over ice cubes in tall glasses. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly hands-off time)
Ginger-Infused Mint Julep
Elevate the classic mint julep with the warm, spicy flavors of ginger in this refreshing twist on a cocktail classic.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 6-8 mint leaves
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release oils and flavor.
2. Add bourbon, lime juice, simple syrup, and ginger liqueur to the shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled silver cup filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, no cooking required.
Cucumber-Basil Mint Julep
A refreshing twist on the classic Mint Julep, this recipe combines the cooling flavors of cucumber and basil with a hint of mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Whiskey or bourbon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine crushed ice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the chopped mint, cucumber, and basil to the pitcher.
3. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, stir in whiskey or bourbon (if using).
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves and a slice of cucumber if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply chill and serve.
Maple Syrup Mint Julep
Combine the refreshing flavors of mint and maple syrup with this unique twist on a classic julep.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, torn into small pieces
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. Fill a silver cup or julep cup with crushed ice.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey and lime juice. Stir gently to combine.
3. Drizzle the maple syrup over the mixture, stirring until well combined.
4. Add the torn mint leaves and stir gently to distribute evenly.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Raspberry Mint Julep Twist
A refreshing twist on the classic mint julep, this recipe combines the sweetness of raspberries with the cooling effects of peppermint and bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons crushed ice
– 2 sprigs of fresh peppermint leaves
– 2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– Crushed ice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the raspberries and sugar together to release their juices and combine with the sugar.
2. Add the crushed ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a julep cup or highball glass filled with crushed ice.
4. Add the bourbon whiskey and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh peppermint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, so you won’t need to cook anything.
Lavender Mint Julep Cooler
Experience the refreshing essence of spring with this unique twist on the classic mint julep. This Lavender Mint Julep Cooler combines the cooling flavors of mint and lavender for a drink that’s as delightful as it is sophisticated.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 1 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Sparkling water
– Fresh lavender sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, gently press the mint leaves and lavender buds against the sides to release their oils and flavors.
2. Add the crushed ice, bourbon whiskey, and simple syrup to the pitcher. Stir until well combined.
3. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve over more crushed ice in a tall glass and garnish with a fresh lavender sprig.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled cocktail recipe.
Vanilla Bean Mint Julep
Escape to the Kentucky Derby with this refreshing twist on the classic mint julep.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz vanilla bean extract
– 2 tsp fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
– Crushed ice
– Lemon twist or sprig of mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with crushed ice, combine bourbon, simple syrup, and vanilla bean extract.
2. Add the fresh mint leaves to the shaker and muddle gently to release oils and flavor.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled silver cup or julep cup filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or sprig of mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (a quick mix and serve cocktail!)
Pineapple Coconut Mint Julep
A refreshing twist on the classic mint julep, this Pineapple Coconut Mint Julep combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creamy richness of coconut and the invigorating zing of mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon or whiskey
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– Handful of fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
– Crushed ice and pineapple wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add bourbon or whiskey, lime juice, pineapple juice, and coconut cream.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a pineapple wedge.
Cooking Time: None! Just shake, strain, and serve.
Dark Rum Mint Julep
A twist on the classic Kentucky Derby cocktail, this Dark Rum Mint Julep combines the bold flavors of dark rum and mint with a refreshing crunch.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Dark Rum
• 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• 2 cups Crushed Ice
• Fresh Mint Leaves for garnish
• Club Soda
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with crushed ice.
2. Add the dark rum and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint leaves.
6. Top with a splash of club soda, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Cherry Lime Mint Julep
A refreshing twist on the classic julep, this Cherry Lime Mint Julep combines sweet and tangy flavors with a hint of mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed ice
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup cherry juice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a silver cup or julep cup with crushed ice.
2. In a small bowl, mix together bourbon, lime juice, and simple syrup until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture over the ice in the cup.
4. Add cherry juice and stir gently to combine.
5. Place fresh mint leaves on top of the drink.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Bourbon-Free Vegan Mint Julep
Discover a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, perfect for warm weather and outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup plain unsweetened almond milk or other non-dairy milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the mint leaves with a spoon until they’re well-chopped.
2. Add the almond milk, sugar, and lime juice to the pitcher. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Bourbon-Free Vegan Mint Julep over the ice.
5. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Iced Green Tea Mint Julep
Refresh your senses with this unique twist on the classic mint julep, featuring the subtle taste of green tea.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups brewed green tea, chilled
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup crushed ice
– Sparkling water (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the mint leaves and sugar together until well combined.
2. Add the chilled green tea to the pitcher and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Fill a glass with crushed ice and pour the green tea mixture over the ice.
4. Top with sparkling water, if desired, for added fizz.
5. Garnish with an additional mint leaf, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready to serve in just minutes.
Orange Blossom Mint Julep
Experience the refreshing essence of citrus and mint in this unique twist on the classic julep recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz orange blossom water
– Handful of crushed ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a julep cup or metal cup with crushed ice.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey, orange juice, simple syrup, and orange blossom water.
3. Stir gently for 30 seconds to combine ingredients and chill the mixture.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None (ready to serve)
Rosemary-Lemon Mint Julep
Rosemary-Lemon Mint Julep Recipe
Experience the refreshing essence of a summer evening with this unique twist on the classic julep.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– 3-4 sprigs of fresh rosemary leaves
– Handful of ice
– 1/2 cup crushed ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the rosemary sprigs to the shaker and muddle gently to release oils and flavors.
3. Fill the shaker with handful of ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a julep cup filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (this is a cocktail, after all!)
Spiked Watermelon Mint Julep
Beat the summer heat with this refreshing twist on the classic mint julep.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups watermelon chunks (seedless)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Ice cubes
– Club soda, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon chunks until smooth.
2. Add the fresh mint leaves to the blender and blend until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher.
4. Add the bourbon whiskey and sugar to the pitcher; stir until dissolved.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the spiked watermelon mint julep over the ice.
6. Top each glass off with club soda and garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.
Quick and Easy Mint Julep Mocktail
Perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a refreshing drink, this minty mocktail is easy to make and delightful to serve. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be sipping on a cool and creamy treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or 7-Up)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey syrup (equal parts water and honey, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, gently muddle the mint leaves with a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the lemon-lime soda, lime juice, and honey syrup. Stir until well combined.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the mocktail mixture over the top.
5. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep and chill time)
Summary
Beat the heat with these refreshing mint julep recipes! From classic bourbon to non-alcoholic twists, we’ve got 20 easy and delicious variations to quench your thirst. Try our Simple Southern Mint Julep for a taste of tradition or get creative with Spiced Honey Mint Julep or Raspberry Mint Julep Twist. You’ll also find refreshing drinks like Cucumber-Basil Mint Julep and Sparkling Peach Mint Julep, perfect for summer gatherings. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or innovative, we’ve got a mint julep recipe to suit your taste.