Classic Mint Julep
A classic mint julep is a refreshing bourbon cocktail made with fresh mint, simple syrup, and plenty of crushed ice. It’s light, icy, and just sweet enough to balance the bold bourbon, making it perfect for easy entertaining.
A classic mint julep is one of those cocktails that never goes out of style. Bourbon, fresh mint, plenty of crushed ice… simple, refreshing, and it just feels like an occasion in a glass.
I like to lean into that mint flavor a little more by adding a mint simple syrup. Totally optional, but if you love mint—and if you’re here, I’m guessing you do—why not give it that extra little boost?
It also happens to be the official Kentucky Derby cocktail, which makes it the perfect excuse to have a few people over. Even if you’re not there ordering one trackside, you can absolutely bring that same vibe home. Any excuse to gather… and a theme party? I’m in. Not sure you’ll catch me in a big fru-fru hat… but never say never.
Keep it easy. A good cocktail, a simple dip, some crackers. Nothing fussy. Just clinking glasses, maybe a raised pinky or two.
Classic Mint Julep Ingredients
- Bourbon – this cocktail is bourbon-forward, so go for the good stuff. We’re big fans of Buffalo Trace at the cabin (when we can get our hands on it), but Woodford Reserve is always a great choice too
- Fresh mint leaves – for muddling and garnish, this is where all that fresh, bright flavor comes in
- Mint simple syrup – this is where I like to lean in a little extra on the mint. I’ll show you how to make it below, but totally optional. You can absolutely swap in regular simple syrup
- Crushed ice – don’t skip this. It’s what gives you that icy, frosty cup and slowly mellows the bourbon as you sip.
How To Make a Classic Mint Julep
You’re going to start with the mint simple syrup. It’s incredibly easy and worth having on hand. Just combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan, add a handful of fresh mint sprigs, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it steep for about 10–15 minutes, then strain out the mint and cool. Store it in the fridge and you’re good to go for cocktails all week.
If you have a copper julep cup, now’s the time to use it. I love these from Amazon. The copper gets ice cold and helps keep your drink perfectly chilled from first sip to last. If not, no big deal, any glass will do the job.
Add about 7–8 fresh mint leaves (just the leaves, not the stems) to your cup. Pour in your simple syrup and gently muddle. You’re not trying to shred the mint, just press enough to release those oils and that fresh mint aroma.
Next, pour in your bourbon and give it a stir. Fill the cup all the way to the top with crushed ice, letting it mound up a bit. Finish with a fresh mint garnish.
Tips for the Perfect Classic Mint Julep
- Don’t over-muddle the mint – you’re gently pressing to release oils, not shredding it. Think press, not smash
- Use crushed ice – this is key. It chills fast and softens the bourbon as it melts
- Chill your cup if you can – especially if using a copper julep cup, that frosty exterior is part of the experience
- Go with a good bourbon – this drink is simple, so you want a smooth bourbon
- Garnish matters – give your mint a little clap before adding it (yes, really). It wakes up the aroma
Julep Talk: FAQ’s
This really comes down to preference, but if you want a couple go-to options, we love Buffalo Trace at the cabin (when we can find it). Woodford Reserve is another one that’s always a solid choice.
Yes… if you want that true julep experience. It gives you that signature frosty cup and slightly mellows the drink as you sip.
You can prep the simple syrup ahead, but the cocktail itself is best made fresh so the ice and mint stay bright.
Hats Optional: Cocktail Required
Hosting a Kentucky Derby party? You absolutely need this as your signature sip.
And if there’s a big, frilly hat involved… I need to see it. I’m serious—send the picture.
I’ll be honest, I always kind of poo-poo the whole dress-up thing for a theme party, the production of it all, but once I’m in it, it’s actually so much fun.
If you’re planning any kind of theme party and need cocktail ideas, I’m your gal. Come join the Cozy Crew to get more easy cocktail recipes, hosting ideas, and a few good excuses to gather.
Classic Mint Julep
Equipment
- Saucepan for mint simple syrup
- muddler
Ingredients
Mint Simple Syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 3-4 mint sprigs
Classic Mint Julep
- 7-8 mint leaves
- ¾ oz mint simple syrup
- 2 oz bourbon
- crushed ice to fill the glass
- mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
Mint Simple Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water.
- Add the mint sprigs and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and let steep for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain out the mint and let cool. Store in the fridge until ready to use.
Classic Mint Julep
- Add mint leaves and simple syrup to a julep cup or glass.
- Gently muddle to release the mint oils.
- Pour in the bourbon and stir to combine.
- Fill the cup completely with crushed ice, letting it mound slightly on top.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and serve immediately.
