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This Classic Mint Julep Recipe originated in the South. Originally known as “smashers,” juleps are muddled with mint and bourbon. Traditionally a drink for the elite, due to the cost of alcohol and ice before electricity. Mint juleps gained notoriety due to the Kentucky Derby. Starting around 1938, juleps became popular at the event, and voila! This tradition popularized them across the country, especially in summer. Mint Juleps are cold and crisp, perfect for hot summer days by the pool. Using fresh mint leaves and honey instead of sugar makes it even better.
Mint Julep Easy Recipe: The Enchanting Tradition at the Kentucky Derby
Few experiences capture the essence of Southern charm and elegance quite like savoring a Mint Julep at a grand horse race. The tradition of this special bourbon cocktail is steeped in history, dating back to the 19th century, where julep cups are traditionally used to serve this refreshing cocktail, making it synonymous with the Kentucky Derby. Each year, on the first Saturday of May, Churchill Downs transforms into a festive haven where an estimated 120,000 Mint Juleps are enjoyed over the Derby weekend festivities alone.
A Twist on a Summer Tradition
Silver glasses were traditionally used with finely crushed ice when gently muddling mint leaves with simple syrup to prepare a julep. Take a hint from the past when making your cocktails, and use a metallic highball glass to keep everything extra cold. You don’t need to be as fancy as a Derby goer: just have fun with this cocktail!
Although there are many varieties of mint, spearmint was and still is the mint of choice for recipes of this drink, as it offers the most potent and concentrated flavors. Using your own homegrown mint is perfect for this recipe. Mint is easy to grow and quickly regenerates after a harvest.
Other less traditional varieties of mint may be fun to experiment with for a unique drink for guests. Incidentally, bees also love mint, and it’s a strong source of food for them. Growing several varieties will bolster the food sources that are available to pollinators.
Variations to Delight the Palate
While the classic recipe is revered, there are delightful variations that bring an extra layer of indulgence to this beloved tradition. One notable twist is the Mint Julep with Honey, which substitutes sugar syrup with luscious honey, creating a bourbon mixture that perfectly complements the robust bourbon and fresh mint.
How to Make a Mint Julep with Honey
The first thing to do is to gather up the ingredients. You only need a few and it takes just a few minutes to make a mint julep with honey as the simple syrup, using mint and honey simple syrup as key components, though your friends and family will think that you slaved over these, and I bet that they’ll ask what the secret ingredient is!
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boiling water
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mint leaves
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bourbon
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crushed ice
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blossoming mint for garnish (if available)
Mint Infusion
After preparing the mint and honey simple syrup, pour syrup into a glass jar and refrigerate it for future use.
Serving the Delight
When serving, garnish each mint julep with a fresh sprig of mint to enhance both the visual appeal and aromatic experience of the cocktail.
Preparation Steps
Mint Infusion:
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Pour boiling water from a kettle or pot into a small bowl.
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Add fresh mint sprigs and stir until they are wilted, releasing their aromatic essence.
- Add a generous dollop of Bee Inspired Honey and stir until it’s fully dissolved, creating a luscious mint-honey syrup.
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Allow the mixture to stand and cool, letting the flavors meld together.
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Once cooled, strain the mixture to remove mint leaves, discarding them to leave behind a pure, fragrant syrup.
Crafting the Cocktail:
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In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz. of bourbon with the prepared honey mint syrup.
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Add a handful of crushed ice to the shaker.
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Shake well, allowing the ingredients to harmonize into a chilled, flavorful mix.
Serving the Delight:
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Pour the contents of the cocktail shaker over a bed of crushed ice in a frosted silver tumbler or a rocks glass, evoking a touch of timeless elegance.
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Garnish with a fresh mint sprig, adding a final flourish that not only looks stunning but also enhances the drink’s aromatic profile.
Adapting our Classic Mint Julep Recipe with Honey
Feel free to experiment with the varieties of mint that you muddle into the drink! They will give different aromas and flavors that can significantly change the cocktail, and become your signature cocktail. Love whiskey? Check out our other whiskey honey drink recipes!
Some other types of mint to try include:
- Chocolate Mint for a flavor similar to a peppermint pattie
- Apple Mint features softer fragrances and flavors
- Grapefruit Mint is complex in flavor, with undertones of citrus and pepper
We adapted our Classic Mint Julep Recipe from one of the delicious recipes from the Honey Board.
An Invitation to Indulge
Drinking a Mint Julep at the Derby is more than a mere refreshment; it's a joyous celebration of tradition, taste, and timeless elegance. As you take that first sip, let the cool minty breeze sweep you away to a world where every moment is about savoring the finer things in life and creating cherished memories.
Whether you're attending the Derby or hosting your own viewing party, let the Mint Julep be your companion in celebrating this sweet and storied tradition. Raise your cup, immerse yourself in the excitement of the race, and revel in the sensory indulgence that only a Mint Julep can offer.
If you decide to make this Mint Julep easy recipe, don't forget to share a snapshot of your creation on Instagram with the hashtag #beeinspiredmintjulep so we can celebrate this summery cocktail with you and the community!
Here's to making new memories, one sip at a time. Cheers!
