Here's How to Make a Classic Mint Julep Cocktail... with A Bonus Fruit Version!

​The Mint Julep is a classic Southern cocktail, best known as the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby. It’s a refreshing bourbon-based drink served over crushed ice and flavored with fresh mint and a bit of sweetness. Here's a classic version of the recipe, along with another recipe that adds a fruity twist! Try one or both of these  refreshing cocktails for your Derby party!

Classic Mint Julep Recipe
Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (or 1 tsp sugar + a splash of water)
• 8–10 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
• Crushed ice

Instructions:

1. Muddle the mint: In a Julep cup or highball glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup (or sugar and water). Don’t mash the mint too hard—you want to release the oils, not shred the leaves.
2. Add bourbon: Pour in the bourbon.
3. Add ice: Fill the glass with crushed ice and stir well until the outside of the glass feels frosty.
4. Top with more ice: Pile on more crushed ice to form a mound.
5. Garnish: Slap a sprig of mint to release the aroma and place it as a garnish.

Optional tip: Chill the glass ahead of time for an extra-frosty presentation.
 
🍑 Peach Mint Julep
Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz peach purée or peach nectar
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 6–8 mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
• Crushed ice
• Optional: peach slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Muddle the mint: In a Julep cup or highball glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup.
2. Add peach: Stir in the peach purée or nectar.
3. Pour in the bourbon: Mix to combine.
4. Add crushed ice: Fill the glass with crushed ice and stir until chilled.
5. Garnish: Add a mound of crushed ice on top, then garnish with a mint sprig and peach slice.

Other great fruit variations you might like:

• Strawberry Julep (muddle fresh strawberries with the mint and syrup)
• Blackberry Julep (same method—great with a splash of lemon juice)
• Pineapple Julep (pineapple juice + mint = tropical vibes)