While we were out in Kentucky, one thing was obvious…people love their bourbon! And, with that comes the love of a good bourbon cocktail. That’s why this week I’m sharing with you simply the best Mint Julep recipe!
The mint julep is a mixed cocktail, which consists primarily of bourbon, sugar, water, crushed ice, and fresh mint. Most people associate this drink with Louisville, Kentucky and the Kentucky Derby, as it’s the cocktail during Derby weekend. I hope you enjoy!
Photo © Makers Mark
Mint Julep Recipe
Please note: The below recipe is meant to be prepared the day before you plan on serving.
Ingredients
– 4 cups bourbon – I prefer using Makers Mark, Makers 46 or Jim Beam Bourbon
– 2 bunches fresh mint
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– Powdered sugar – for garnish
– Crushed Ice
First, you’ll want to prepare your mint extract. Remove about 40 small mint leaves, and wash and place in a small bowl. Cover with 3 ounces of your bourbon of choice and soak for 15 minutes. Then gather the leaves in paper toweling and thoroughly wring the mint over the bowl of whisky. Dip the bundle again and repeat the process several times. This is easier than it sounds. I promise.
Next you’ll need to prepare simple syrup, so mix 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of distilled water in a small saucepan. Heat to dissolve sugar. Stir constantly so the sugar does not burn and then once mixed, take off the heat and set aside to cool completely.
Next we will begin to prepare the mint julep mixture. Pour 3 1/2 cups of bourbon into a large glass pitcher and add 1 cup of the cooled simple syrup.
Now add about 3 tablespoons of the mint extract to the glass pitcher. Cover the mixture and place inside the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
Serving: Start off by filling each glass (preferably a silver mint julep cup) full with shaved ice. Next, place a mint sprig in the top of your glass.
Finally, when frost forms on the cup, pour the refrigerated julep mixture over the ice, leaving a “cap” of ice at the top. Dash a sprinkle of powdered sugar to the top of the ice and ENJOY!
XO,
M
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