Mint Juleps
A refreshing cocktail featuring mint and bourbon, perfect for warm evenings and gatherings, combining sweet, minty, and spirited flavors for a classic Southern sip.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sugar and water together for 5 minutes to make a syrup.
- Place mint leaves in a 1-quart container.
- Pour the cooled syrup over the mint leaves.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 12 hours and no more than 24 hours.
- Cover the container tightly and keep refrigerated.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra burst of flavor, gently muddle the mint leaves before adding the syrup to release their essential oils. If you prefer a sweeter drink, adjust the sugar in the syrup to your taste. For a non-alcoholic version, you could replace bourbon with sparkling water or ginger ale for a refreshing minty mocktail.
Serving Suggestions
Serve mint juleps over crushed ice in a traditional silver or pewter cup for the best experience. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a straw for easy sipping. These refreshing drinks pair wonderfully with Southern dishes, making them a perfect complement to barbecued ribs or a light salad, such as Low-Fat Macaroni Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover mint syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keep in mind that the mint flavor may intensify over time. If you have mixed any drinks, they are best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep them in the fridge for a short period if necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mint Juleps contains roughly 32 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).
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 make mint juleps ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mint syrup ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just remember to add the bourbon and crushed ice right before serving for the best taste and texture.
What type of bourbon is best for mint juleps?
A smooth, high-quality bourbon is ideal for mint juleps. Look for options with a sweeter profile, such as Maker's Mark or Woodford Reserve, to complement the mint's freshness.
Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?
Fresh mint is recommended for the best flavor, but if you don’t have any, you can use dried mint. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Keep in mind that the flavor will be different.
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).