Easy Mint Julep Recipe
Not just any Mint Juleps, but Easy Mint Juleps. This isn’t some fancy pants, mixologist-level drink that requires a degree in cocktail alchemy. Nope. This is the kind of julep you whip up on a hot afternoon when you need something cold, refreshing, and maybe just a tad bit boozy. Trust me, you need this in your life.
Okay, so confession time: my husband, bless his heart, used to think a “fancy drink” was a beer with a lime. Then I introduced him to this julep. Now? He acts like he’s been sipping them on a veranda his whole life! Last summer, he actually tried to grow mint in a pot. It… didn’t go well. But hey, points for effort! Now, every Derby Day, we have a little Mint Julep tradition, even if it’s just us on the couch yelling at the TV. It’s our thing, and it’s delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Mint Julep Recipe
- It’s ridiculously easy. Like, “I can make this after a long day with screaming kids” easy.
- It’s SO refreshing. That minty-sweet kick is perfect for a hot day.
- It makes you feel fancy, even if you’re wearing sweatpants (which, let’s be honest, you probably are).
- Impress your friends! They’ll think you’re some kind of cocktail wizard. (Don’t tell them how easy it is!)
How to Make It
Alright, here’s the lowdown. First, you gotta muddle your mint. Don’t go crazy, just a gentle press to release those oils. Then, you’ll add your sugar (or simple syrup if you’re feeling real fancy) and bourbon. Now, here’s the secret: use good bourbon. Not the top-shelf stuff you save for special occasions, but something decent. The cheap stuff will give you a headache, trust me, I’ve learned that the hard way. Fill the glass with crushed ice – the more, the merrier – and stir until that glass gets frosty. Top with more ice, garnish with a mint sprig, and boom! You’re basically a bartender now.
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Ingredient Notes
- Fresh Mint: Don’t skimp! It’s the heart of this drink. If your mint is looking a little sad, give it a good smack before muddling. Wakes it right up!
- Bourbon: This is not the time for that bottom-shelf stuff, okay? Splurge a little. You deserve it. I usually grab something mid-range; it’s a good balance between taste and budget.
- Sugar: I usually just use regular granulated sugar, but you can use simple syrup if you’re feeling bougie. Honestly, the granulated works just fine and saves me a step.
- Crushed Ice: This is key for that super-cold, refreshing vibe. If you don’t have an ice crusher, you can put ice cubes in a ziplock bag and whack it with a rolling pin. It’s surprisingly therapeutic.
Recipe Steps:
- Muddle: Gently press mint leaves with sugar in a sturdy glass.
- Add: Pour in bourbon.
- Fill: Pack the glass with crushed ice.
- Stir: Mix until the glass is frosty.
- Top: Add more crushed ice.
- Garnish: Decorate with a fresh mint sprig.
What to Serve It With
Honestly? Nothing. It’s perfect on its own. But if you must have something, maybe some salty snacks like pretzels or peanuts. Or, you know, a whole plate of barbecue. Because why not?
Tips & Mistakes
- Don’t over-muddle the mint! You don’t want it to get bitter. Just a gentle press is enough.
- Use enough ice! The colder, the better.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the sweetness. If you like it less sweet, use less sugar. It’s your drink, make it how you like it!
- Accidentally used gin instead of bourbon once. Don’t do that. Just…don’t.
Storage Tips
Okay, so technically, you’re supposed to drink this right away. But if you really have leftovers (which, let’s be real, never happens), you can store it in the fridge. It’ll get a little watery, but it’s still drinkable. And hey, I’ve totally been known to sip a cold julep for breakfast. Don’t judge!
Variations and Substitutions
- Honey instead of sugar: Totally works! Gives it a different flavor profile.
- Different bourbon: Go wild! Experiment! Just don’t use the really cheap stuff.
- Mint extract: Okay, I’ve never actually done this, but if you’re desperate, I guess you could use a tiny bit. Fresh mint is always better, though.
- Skipped the garnish once because I was out of mint. It was still good, just not as pretty.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Easy Mint Julep Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 leaves fresh mint plus extra for garnish
- 0.5 oz simple syrup or to taste
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 cup crushed ice
- 1 piece lemon peel optional, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Muddle the mint leaves with simple syrup in a glass.
- Add the bourbon and stir well.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice and stir until the glass gets frosty.
- Garnish with additional mint leaves and a lemon peel.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
