Mint Julep

Name: Mint Julep Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 sprig Mint; 1 tsp Powdered Sugar; 2 tsp Water; 2 1/2 oz Bourbon

Jump to ingredients

A mint julep is a classic bourbon cocktail that combines fresh mint, powdered sugar, and water into a refreshing, aromatic drink. The key to a perfect mint julep is gently bruising the mint to release its oils without shredding the leaves.

🏷️Equipment: collins glass

Total

5 min

Servings

4

Recipe Source

Visit Mr. Boston Drinks

From Mr. Boston Drinks · by Mr. Boston Official Bartender's and Party Guide

Ingredients

Check what you already have. We'll leave it off your shopping list.

4 sprig Mint
1 tsp Powdered Sugar
2 tsp Water
2 1/2 oz Bourbon

4 Ingredients

CookOS may earn a commission from Instacart orders.

Powered by Instacart

Prices vary by store

^*Service fees apply. Instacart^® and the Instacart logo are registered trademarks of Maplebear Inc. d/b/a Instacart.

Instructions

1
In silver julep cup, silver mug, or collins glass, muddle mint leaves, powdered sugar, and water.
2
Fill glass or mug with shaved or crushed ice and add bourbon.
3
Top with more ice and garnish with a mint sprig and straws.

Was this recipe helpful?

Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Bruise mint gently by slapping sprigs between your palms—aggressive muddling releases bitter chlorophyll and shreds leaves.
Chill your glass with crushed ice before assembling the drink; a cold vessel keeps the cocktail refreshing longer.
Dissolve powdered sugar in water first to create a simple syrup base before adding bourbon, ensuring smooth, even sweetness.
Serve immediately after assembly—the drink loses its chill and mint aromatics quickly once exposed to warm air.

Substitutions

Bourbon → Rye whiskey (slightly spicier, drier profile)
Powdered sugar → Simple syrup, 1/2 tsp (equivalent sweetness, no dissolution needed)
Fresh mint → Dried mint, 1/2 tsp (less aromatic, use only if fresh unavailable)

Storage & make-ahead

Mint juleps are best served immediately. The drink does not store well and will lose carbonation, chill, and mint aroma within 10–15 minutes.

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · bar spoon · crushed ice maker or Lewis bag

Common Questions

What type of bourbon works best for a mint julep?

Use a smooth, mid-range bourbon with 80-90 proof. Avoid highly peated or heavily oaked bourbons that overpower the mint.

How do you properly prepare mint for a mint julep?

Gently slap the mint sprigs against your palm to bruise them and release oils, but do not muddle aggressively or the leaves will tear and become bitter.