This Maker's Mark Mint Julep recipe is the perfect blend of smooth bourbon, crisp mint, and just the right touch of sweetness. Follow along as we show you how to craft a drink that's sure to elevate any gathering or relaxing moment.
Looking for more drink recipes? Try Baileys Eggnog or Watermelon Kombucha
Though the Mint Julep originated in the American South in the 18th century and is today considered the quintessential cocktail of the South, its creation and popularization are owed much to the often-overlooked contributions of African American slaves and bartenders such as John Dabney, Jasper Crouch, and Jim Cook.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing Flavor: The Mint Julep is a refreshing combination of crisp mint flavors and smooth bourbon. Perfect for warmer weather or a hot summer night.
Classic Heritage: It carries a rich history and cultural significance, including the contributions of African Americans.
Versatile: Whether you're lounging or celebrating a special occasion with good company, the refreshing Julep is a versatile cocktail suitable for various settings and events.
Simple Elegance: It is a refreshingly sweet spring or summer cocktail that's so easy to make and requires only a few ingredients and minimal preparation.
RECIPE INGREDIENTS
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this Makers Mark Mint Julep
INGREDIENT NOTES
Fresh Mint Leaves: Mint adds a cool and crisp taste to the cocktail, which perfectly complements the warmth of the bourbon. If fresh mint leaves are unavailable, you can use mint extract as a substitute, although it won't provide the same visual appeal or freshness.
Bourbon: When choosing bourbon, pick a brand that you like and enjoy drinking. If bourbon is not available.
Crushed Ice: Crushed ice contributes to the signature frosty and refreshing texture of the Mint Julep. It quickly chills the cocktail while diluting it slightly and slowly.
How To make Maker's Mark Mint Julep Step-By-Step
Check out these step-by-step instructions with images. Just so you know, you'll find all the details and exact ingredients of this recipe on the printable recipe card below!
Step 1: Take a sturdy glass (preferably a lowball or rocks glass) and add 7-10 fresh mint leaves.
Step 2: Pour 0.5 ounces or more of simple syrup over the mint leaves. If you don't have simple syrup, you can easily make some by mixing 1 teaspoon of sugar with 0.5 ounces of water.
Step 3: Pour in 2 ounces of bourbon. Choose your favorite bourbon or whatever you have on hand.
Step 5: Fill the glass with crushed ice until it's nearly full. Pack the ice so that it forms a solid piece, ensuring slow dilution. If you don't have crushed ice, you can use ice cubes and give them a gentle crush using a towel or a clean cloth.
Step 6: Using a bar spoon or any long spoon, gently stir the contents of the glass. This helps mix everything together and chill the drink. It also helps release the mint's flavor into the drink.
Step 7: Top off your glass with more crushed ice and garnish your Mint Julep with a fresh mint sprig. This not only looks nice but also adds a pleasant aroma to the drink.
RECIPE TIPS AND TRICKS
Proper Muddling Technique: When muddling the mint leaves, be gentle but firm and avoid over-muddling, which can result in the release of bitter flavors from the mint. The goal is to bruise the leaves slightly to release their aromatic mint notes and oils without tearing them apart.
Perfect Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness level to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add a little bit more simple syrup. If you prefer it less sweet, you can reduce the amount of syrup or not use it at all.
Use Crushed Ice: Crushed ice is essential for a Mint Julep. It helps to dilute the drink while keeping it cold and refreshing. If you don't have a crushed ice maker, you can place ice cubes in a clean towel and crush them gently with a mallet or rolling pin. Be sure to use plenty of ice!
Presentation Matters: If you can, serve your Mint Julep in a classic and traditional silver cup or pewter cup. If you don't have a julep cup, any sturdy glass will work.
ADDITIONS AND SUBSTITUTIONS
Additional Flavors: You can add a splash of hard seltzer or fruit juice such as lemon, lime, or orange for a citrusy twist. Also, try adding a few dashes of Angostura bitters for a more complex flavor profile.
Different Spirits: While bourbon is the traditional spirit used in a classic Mint Julep, you can use different spirits. Try using rye whiskey for a spicier flavor, rum for a tropical twist, or even gin for a refreshing botanical taste.
Sweeteners: Instead of simple syrup, you can use honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to add a different flavor profile to your Mint Julep. Just be sure to adjust the amount used to your preferred level of sweetness.
Sparkling Water: For a lighter, effervescent version of the Mint Julep, top it off with a splash of sparkling water or club soda. Doing this adds a refreshing fizz to your drink.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
A mint julep is a traditional Southern alcoholic cocktail made with bourbon, simple syrup, crushed or shaved ice, and fresh mint. It's a drink that's associated with the Kentucky Derby.
Traditionally, bourbon from Kentucky is used for making mint juleps. Maker's Mark, Jim Beam, and Woodford Reserve are some popular brands. We recommend that you use your favorite whiskey brand for this recipe.
It's a popular Kentucky Derby Day tradition, which is typically held on the first Saturday in the month of May.
Dishes like fried chicken, grilled fish, or summer salads go really well with the Mint Julep.
IN A DINNER RUT?
We hope you love this Maker's Mark Mint Julep! If you make it, be sure to leave a rating so we know how you liked it!
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