Hazelnut Free Mint Julep

Total time10 min

Prep time5 min

Cook time5 min

4.7

(30)

Few cocktails feel as effortlessly elegant as a cold, frosted julep cup sweating in your hand on a warm afternoon. This classic bourbon drink is built on just a handful of clean, simple ingredients — fresh mint, homemade simple syrup, and good bourbon — so there's nothing hidden to worry about. Nut-based syrups and flavored spirits can sneak unexpected allergens into bar drinks, but making this one from scratch puts you completely in control of every drop. The technique matters here: muddling the mint leaves gently rather than shredding them keeps the flavor bright and fragrant instead of bitter. Packing the cup with crushed ice and stirring until the outside frosts isn't just for show — it chills the drink down to that perfect, almost slushy temperature that makes a julep so satisfying. A tucked-in mint sprig and a dusting of powdered sugar finish it off with that signature look that feels like a small celebration every single time.

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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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