Mint Julep Recipe (Derby Day cocktail!)

These Mint Juleps are perfect for Derby Day. Or any other hot day, for that matter.

Mint Juleps are super easy to make, too. Just muddle some mint leaves with simple syrup, pour in some bourbon, and top with lots of crushed ice. Garnish with another sprig of mint for the minty aroma and because it makes the drink look classy AF. I used chocolate mint because that's what I have growing on my back deck.

Need drinks for the rest of the Triple Crown? Try my Belmont Jewel and Black Eyed Susan recipes!

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🌟 Why You'll Love This Recipe
💭 What is a Mint Julep?
📝 Ingredients
👩🏻‍🍳 How to make a Mint Julep
🔗 More bourbon cocktails
❓ FAQs
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✨ Recipe
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🌟 Why You'll Love This Recipe

It's a classic. This is a classic for a reason, too.
It's easy to make. Though it looks fancy, it's so easy to make.
It requires few ingredients. Bourbon and mint simple syrup? Sign me up!

💭 What is a Mint Julep?

A Mint Julep is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby!

According to the Kentucky Derby's website, nearly 120,000 mint juleps are served during the course of the 2 day celebration. And it's easy to see why. They're delicious, sweet, and very refreshing.

But brace yourselves: they're basically all bourbon. (not that I'm complaining)

📝 Ingredients

Mint simple syrup: It's so easy to make your own at home.
Bourbon: Use your favorite!
Fresh mint: You don't want to forget the fresh mint garnish.

👩🏻‍🍳 How to make a Mint Julep

I really like this recipe, but it's worth acknowledging that there is no single accepted Mint Julep recipe. Many variations exist.

One thing that is agreed upon, though, is that they should be served in Julep Cups. The ones that I used in these pictures are not exactly traditional, but I think they qualify.