19 Mint Julep Recipe Southern Living Delight In These Amazing Recipes!
Published on: Mar 13, 2024
Mint julep is a refreshing and beloved cocktail that has become synonymous with the southern charm and hospitality. Originally a drink made with just whiskey, sugar, water, and mint, it has evolved over the years to become a staple at social gatherings and events in the southern United States. While the classic recipe is still widely enjoyed, there are countless variations and twists that have been created to cater to different tastes and preferences. In this article, we will explore the history of the mint julep, its traditional recipe, and some popular variations that you can try at home.
Main Ingredients: Bourbon, Mint Leaves, Simple Syrup, Ice Cubes, Crushed
The Classic Kentucky Mint Julep is a timeless recipe that has been enjoyed by many for years. Made with bourbon, sugar, mint leaves, and crushed ice, this cocktail is a refreshing and delicious way to cool down on a hot summer day. It's also the perfect drink to serve at a Kentucky Derby party, as it is the official drink of the famous horse race.
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Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Water, White Sugar, Mint Leaves, Bourbon, Mint
A variation of the Classic Kentucky Mint Julep, this recipe adds a twist by using honey instead of sugar. The sweetness of the honey pairs perfectly with the mint and bourbon, creating a well-balanced and flavorful cocktail. Serve this at your next backyard BBQ or summer gathering for a crowd-pleasing drink.
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Kentucky Colonel Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Mint Leaves, Sugar Cubes, Makers Mark Whisky, Mint
This recipe takes the Mint Julep to the next level by adding a splash of peach schnapps, giving it a fruity and slightly floral taste. The peach and mint flavors complement each other beautifully, making this cocktail a must-try for any julep lover.
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Classic Southern Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Mint, Superfine Sugar, Bourbon, Crushed Ice
The Classic Southern Mint Julep is a simple and straightforward recipe that lets the bourbon shine. With just a few ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening. Serve it in a traditional silver julep cup for the full experience.
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Kentucky Derby Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Crushed Ice, Simple Syrup, Bourbon, Mint
No list of Mint Julep recipes would be complete without the official Kentucky Derby Mint Julep recipe. This recipe uses simple syrup instead of sugar and adds a touch of seltzer water for a bubbly twist. It's a classic and delicious way to enjoy the famous horse race.
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The Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Bourbon, Branca Menta, Mint, Simple Syrup
This recipe keeps it simple with just bourbon, sugar, and mint, but it also adds a splash of club soda for a refreshing and fizzy kick. The combination of the mint and club soda makes this cocktail a great choice for a hot summer day.
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Honey Peach Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Peach, Sugar, Water, Mint, Honey, Bourbon, Fresh Mint
Another variation of the Classic Kentucky Mint Julep, this recipe adds a twist by using peach juice and honey instead of sugar. The result is a sweet and fruity cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a warm day. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of peach for a beautiful presentation.
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Mint Julep Watermelon
Main Ingredients: Bourbon Whiskey, Fresh Mint, Chopped Fresh Mint, Sugar
This unique recipe takes the Mint Julep to a whole new level by adding watermelon juice to the mix. The watermelon adds a subtle sweetness and a refreshing taste to the cocktail, making it a perfect choice for a summer party or BBQ.
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Marvelous Kentucky Derby Style Mint Julep Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Mint, Bourbon, Simple Syrup
This recipe stays true to the classic Mint Julep recipe with bourbon, sugar, and mint, but it also adds a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist. The orange adds a bright and tangy flavor to the cocktail, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less sweet julep.
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Whole-Wheat Mint Julep Cake with Bourbon Whipped Cream
Main Ingredients: Bourbon Whiskey, Fresh Mint, Whole Wheat Pastry Flour
For a unique twist on the traditional Mint Julep, try this recipe for a delicious and moist whole-wheat cake with a bourbon whipped cream frosting. The cake is infused with mint syrup and topped with a light and fluffy whipped cream that is spiked with bourbon. It's the perfect dessert for any julep lover.
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Blackberry Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Bourbon, Water, Fresh Mint Leaves, Blackberries, Ice
This recipe adds a fruity twist to the classic Mint Julep by using blackberry syrup instead of sugar. The blackberry adds a beautiful color and a sweet and tangy flavor to the cocktail. Serve it with a few fresh blackberries for a garnish.
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Peach Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Peach, Fresh Mint Leaves, Bourbon, Angostura Bitters
This recipe takes the classic Mint Julep to a whole new level by adding peach schnapps and peach juice to the mix. The result is a delicious and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot day. Garnish with a slice of peach and a sprig of mint for a beautiful presentation.
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Mint Julep Bundt Cake
Main Ingredients: Fresh Mint, Sugar, All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder
If you're a fan of both Mint Juleps and cake, then this recipe is for you. This delicious bundt cake is infused with bourbon and mint and topped with a mint glaze. It's a unique and tasty dessert that is sure to impress your guests.
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Mint Julep Iced Tea
Main Ingredients: Fresh Mint Leaves, Lemon, Lime, Bourbon, Tea, Mint
This recipe combines two classic southern drinks – the Mint Julep and sweet tea. The result is a refreshing and delicious iced tea with a hint of mint and bourbon. It's the perfect drink to enjoy on a hot summer day.
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Sweet Tea Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Water, Sugar, Mint Leaves, Tea Bags, Bourbon, Crushed
This recipe is a variation of the Mint Julep Iced Tea, but it adds a twist by using sweet tea vodka instead of bourbon. The sweet tea vodka adds a unique and delicious flavor to the cocktail, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter and sweeter drink.
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Mint Julep Bread Pudding
Main Ingredients: Bread Pudding, Challah Bread, Raisins, Large Eggs, Half
This recipe combines two southern favorites – Mint Juleps and bread pudding. The result is a rich and flavorful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The bourbon and mint add a delicious twist to the traditional bread pudding recipe.
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Simple Sweet Tea Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Sweet Tea, Fresh Mint Leaves, Bourbon, Ice, Slice Of
This recipe is a simplified version of the Mint Julep Iced Tea, using just a few ingredients – sweet tea, bourbon, and mint. It's a quick and easy way to enjoy a refreshing and delicious cocktail without a lot of fuss.
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Brown Sugar-Peach Mint Julep
Main Ingredients: Water, Dark Brown Sugar, Fresh Mint Leaves, Peaches
This recipe adds a twist to the traditional Mint Julep by using brown sugar and peach schnapps instead of white sugar. The brown sugar adds a rich and caramel-like flavor, while the peach schnapps adds a fruity twist to the cocktail.
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Dark Chocolate Mint Julep Pie
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Sea Salt, Caster, Butter, Cold Water
If you're a fan of both Mint Juleps and chocolate, then this recipe is for you. This delicious pie combines a chocolate crust, a creamy mint filling, and a bourbon whipped cream topping. It's a decadent and unique dessert that is sure to impress your guests.
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Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Chicken Skewers
Main Ingredients: Bourbon, Brown Sugar, Fresh Mint Leaves, Balsamic
This recipe puts a unique twist on the classic Mint Julep by using it as a marinade for chicken skewers. The result is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for your next backyard BBQ or summer party. Serve it with a minty yogurt dipping sauce for a complete meal.
The Origins of the Mint Julep
The exact origins of the mint julep are unknown, but it is believed to have been created in the southern states of the US in the 18th century. It was initially used as a medicinal drink, believed to cure ailments such as stomach aches and headaches. However, it quickly gained popularity as a refreshing and delicious cocktail, especially in the hot and humid climate of the South. The word "julep" is derived from the Persian word "gulab," meaning rose water, which was a common ingredient in early recipes. Over the years, the mint julep has become a symbol of southern hospitality and is often associated with the prestigious Kentucky Derby horse race.
The Traditional Recipe
The classic mint julep recipe is simple yet elegant, using only a few ingredients that come together to create a perfectly balanced drink. To make one serving, you will need:
2 ounces of bourbon
1 tsp of granulated sugar
2 tsp of water
8-10 fresh mint leaves
Crushed ice
To prepare the drink, start by muddling the mint leaves, sugar, and water in a glass or silver julep cup. Add crushed ice and pour in the bourbon. Stir gently until the glass becomes frosted on the outside. Garnish with a mint sprig and serve immediately. This classic recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic taste of a mint julep.
Popular Variations
While the traditional recipe remains a favorite, there are many variations of the mint julep that have been created over the years. Some popular ones include:
The Peach Julep: This variation adds a fruity twist to the classic recipe by using peach schnapps or peach-flavored whiskey instead of regular bourbon.
The Mojito Julep: This fusion drink combines the sweetness of a traditional mojito with the boldness of a mint julep. It uses white rum, mint, lime juice, and sugar instead of bourbon and water.
The Chocolate Mint Julep: For those with a sweet tooth, this variation adds a decadent twist to the classic recipe by incorporating chocolate liqueur and chocolate bitters.
With endless possibilities for experimentation, the mint julep is a versatile cocktail that can be customized to suit different tastes and occasions.
In conclusion, the mint julep is more than just a drink; it is a representation of the rich history and culture of the southern states. Whether you prefer the traditional recipe or one of the many variations, this refreshing cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the true essence of southern living. So why not gather some friends, put on your best hat, and enjoy a delicious mint julep together? Cheers!