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Refreshing Classic Mint Julep Recipe with Easy Fresh Mint Simple Syrup

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A classic Southern cocktail featuring bourbon and a bright, fresh mint simple syrup that elevates the traditional mint julep into a refreshing summer favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves (for syrup and garnish)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 ounces bourbon whiskey per serving
  • Crushed ice (enough to fill the glass)
  • Mint sprigs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat.
  2. Add about 1 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves to the hot syrup. Stir quickly, cover, and steep for 20-30 minutes.
  3. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a clean container, pressing gently on the leaves. Discard leaves and let syrup cool completely. Refrigerate if not using immediately.
  4. Fill a julep cup or old-fashioned glass tightly with crushed ice to chill.
  5. Pour 2 ounces bourbon over the ice, then add 0.5 to 1 ounce fresh mint simple syrup depending on sweetness preference. Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine and chill.
  6. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig, gently slapped between your hands to release aroma. Optionally add a straw and serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh, bright green mint leaves for best flavor. Steep mint in syrup for 20-30 minutes to avoid bitterness. Crushed ice is essential to keep the drink cold without diluting quickly. Store syrup refrigerated up to two weeks. For more mint aroma, lightly muddle garnish mint sprig before adding. Variations include using honey instead of sugar, adding herbs like basil or rosemary, or making a low-alcohol version with sparkling water.

Nutrition

Keywords: mint julep, bourbon cocktail, fresh mint syrup, summer drink, classic cocktail, easy cocktail recipe

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