Cinnamon Free Mint Julep
Few cocktails are as refreshingly elegant as this Southern classic, built around bruised fresh mint, good bourbon, and a homemade simple syrup that comes together in minutes. The beauty here is in the restraint — just a handful of clean, straightforward ingredients with no spice blends, flavored syrups, or pre-made mixes that might sneak in unwanted additives. For anyone who needs to avoid cinnamon, store-bought cocktail syrups and flavored bourbons can be a minefield, but making your own syrup from scratch with just sugar and water puts you fully in control. Muddling the mint gently is the key technique — a few careful presses release the aromatic oils without turning the leaves bitter, giving the drink that signature cool, herbal lift. Packing the cup with crushed ice isn't just for looks; it chills the bourbon quickly and creates that gorgeous frosted exterior that makes this drink so iconic. A dusting of powdered sugar on the mint garnish is optional but adds a lovely finishing touch that feels special without any extra effort.
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Learn more →Ingredients
1 serving
For the simple syrup
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
For the cocktail
- 8 fresh mint leaves, plus 1 sprig for garnish
- ½ oz simple syrup (from above)
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 cup crushed ice
- 1 pinch powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the granulated sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. (The syrup can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.)
- 2
Place the mint leaves in the bottom of a chilled julep cup or rocks glass. Add the simple syrup and muddle gently — press and twist the muddler 3–4 times just until the leaves are bruised and fragrant. Do not shred the leaves.
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