Refreshing Classic Mint Julep Recipe with Easy Bourbon Simple Syrup
A classic mint julep cocktail featuring a bourbon-infused simple syrup for a smooth, refreshing summer drink with bright mint aroma and balanced sweetness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
Scale
- 10–12 fresh mint leaves per drink, plus extra for garnish
- 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon per serving
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar for syrup
- 1 cup (240 ml) water for syrup
- Crushed ice
- Optional: lemon peel or orange peel for citrus twist
- Optional: honey or maple syrup as sugar substitute
Instructions
- Make the Bourbon Simple Syrup (10 minutes): Combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat.
- Add 1/2 cup (120 ml) bourbon to the hot syrup. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Place 10-12 fresh mint leaves in the bottom of a julep cup or glass. Gently muddle with a muddler or back of a spoon to release oils without shredding leaves.
- Pour 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon and 1 oz (30 ml) bourbon simple syrup over the muddled mint.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice almost to the top. Stir gently for about 10 seconds to chill and combine flavors.
- Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint and optionally add a straw angled to the side. Serve immediately.
Notes
Gently muddle mint to avoid bitterness. Use crushed ice for best texture and chill glass beforehand for extra refreshment. Bourbon simple syrup can be made ahead and stored refrigerated up to two weeks. Adjust sweetness by adding syrup gradually.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail (about 6
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 14
- Carbohydrates: 14
Keywords: mint julep, bourbon cocktail, bourbon simple syrup, summer drink, refreshing cocktail, classic julep, mint cocktail