Sesame Free Mint Julep
Few cocktails carry the same effortless elegance as a properly made julep, and this one delivers that cool, minty sweetness in every sip. The homemade simple syrup is a small but meaningful touch — just sugar and water simmered together — and it gives you total control over what goes into your glass, no store-bought shortcuts needed. Fresh mint leaves are muddled gently so they release their fragrance without turning bitter, which makes all the difference between a good drink and a great one. Crushed ice is the secret weapon here, chilling the bourbon quickly and creating that gorgeous frosted cup that looks as impressive as it tastes. The whole build is clean and straightforward, relying on nothing but whole, recognizable ingredients — no sauces, no flavored syrups, no hidden additives to second-guess. Whether you're hosting a crowd or just treating yourself on a warm afternoon, this is the kind of drink that feels like a genuine occasion.
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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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