Mint Julep Syrup
A refreshing mint julep syrup with fresh mint and sugar, perfect for creating classic cocktails. Ideal for bourbon lovers and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low; add chopped mint.
- Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Let the syrup stand overnight, then strain.
- Fill a julep cup (12 ounces) with crushed ice.
- Combine bourbon and mint syrup.
- Pour over the crushed ice.
- Garnish with fresh mint sprigs and serve with a straw.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense mint flavor, consider muddling some fresh mint leaves before adding them to the syrup. If you prefer a less sweet syrup, you can reduce the amount of sugar to 1.5 cups. Alternatively, for a non-alcoholic version, replace the bourbon with ginger ale for a refreshing twist that still pairs beautifully with 7 Layer Salad(Make Ahead).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mint Julep in stylish julep cups filled to the brim with crushed ice for the classic presentation. It pairs wonderfully with Southern dishes, such as fried chicken or BBQ ribs. For a complete experience, consider offering a refreshing drink like Pineapple Ale alongside your Mint Julep to enhance your gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover mint syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If the syrup thickens too much over time, you can gently reheat it on the stove with a splash of water to restore its original consistency before using it again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mint Julep Syrup contains roughly 116 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried mint instead of fresh mint?
While fresh mint is recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried mint in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount of dried mint, as it is more concentrated. Keep in mind that the flavor may not be as vibrant as with fresh mint, but it can still work well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).