Fitness / September 17, 2023

Classic Mint Julep

Sip some Southern charm with our recipe for the Classic Mint Julep—a spirited blend of fresh mint, powdered sugar, a splash of water and, of course, the robust kick of bourbon.

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Ever had a drink and instantly felt like you’re sitting on a Southern porch basking in the sun? If you did, I’m willing to bet that drink was the Classic Mint Julep; that’s what it was like for me. It’s fresh mint and a smack of bourbon all stirred up in a tall glass. It’s sunshine with Southern charm. It’s… the next drink you HAVE to try. Trust me on this one.

Now, you may wonder what separates the Mint Julep from a mint cocktail like a Mojito or a Southside? Fair, but trust me when I say that the Classic Mint Julep is in its own league. It’s got that strong bourbon touch, balanced perfectly with a bit of sugar and lots of fresh mint. Not a fad drink, the Mint Julep is always in style.

INGREDIENTS

Simple yet tasty. Just how I like it!

2 1/2 oz. bourbon
6 fresh mint leaves
1 tsp powdered sugar
2 tsp water

Equipment Needed

highball glass
muddler
bar spoon
jigger or measuring tool
straw

INSTRUCTIONS

Muddle

In a highball glass gently muddle the mint, sugar, and water.

Fill

Fill the glass with cracked ice and bourbon. Stir well until the glass is frosty.

Garnish

Garnish with a mint sprig. Serve with a straw.

ENJOY!

How to Make a Healthy/Low-Calorie Mint Julep

Switch that powdered sugar for a low-cal sweetener or honey.
Cut back on the bourbon and up your mint and ice factor.
For a Mint Julep Mocktail, simply drop the bourbon or go in search of a non-alcoholic version.

Tips & Tricks to Making a Perfect Mint Julep

Use premium bourbon for a smoother, richer taste.
Use fresh mint for the best refreshing flavor.
Speaking of mint, when muddling the mint with the sugar and water, apply light pressure and be careful not to shred the leaves.
Use cracked ice instead of regular ice cubes to chill evenly without over-diluting the bourbon.
Stir well to make the glass frosty, which will keep your drink cold longer.

FAQs

How many calories are in a Mint Julep?

A Classic Mint Julep has 160–200 calories.

How should one drink a Mint Julep?

A Mint Julep is best when you take it slow, in a stainless steel or copper glass. You need to sip it leisurely through a straw.

How Can I replace sugar in the Mint Julep?

Yes, lots of bartenders and cocktail lovers swap in sweeteners to trim down those calories. I like honey or agave syrup.

Do I have to use Bourbon for this cocktail?

The traditional Mint Julep uses bourbon but you can try whiskey or rum.

Is there any specific time of year to enjoy Classic Mint Julep?

Nope. While it is associated with the Kentucky Derby (in May, FYI), it is a winner all-year round.

how to prep and store a Classic mint Julep

If you’re playing host for a big crowd, you can prepare the mint, sugar, and water mix a day ahead. Just remember to add the bourbon and ice right before you serve it up.

Because of the diluting power of the ice, a Classic Mint Julep won’t store well, so distribute what’s left to your guests. If you have some of that mint, sugar, and water mix left, you can store it in the fridge for a day or two.