Kentucky Derby Mini Mint Julep (Print Version)

A crisp, sweet Southern-inspired mint drink bursting with fresh flavor, perfect for gatherings.

# Components:

→ Mint Syrup

01 - 1/2 cup water
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish

→ Mocktail Assembly

04 - 2 cups crushed ice
05 - 1 1/2 cups cold sparkling water or club soda
06 - 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
07 - 1/2 cup unsweetened or lightly sweetened apple juice
08 - Lemon slices for garnish

# Directions:

01 - In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat, add mint leaves, and allow to steep for 10 minutes. Strain through fine mesh and allow to cool completely.
02 - Fill mini julep cups or small glasses with crushed ice. Add 1 tablespoon of prepared mint syrup per glass.
03 - Pour 1/4 cup sparkling water, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon apple juice per serving into each glass. Stir gently to combine thoroughly.
04 - Top each mocktail with fresh mint sprigs and lemon slices. Serve immediately with straws.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The mint syrup is genuinely refreshing without that artificial sweetness that makes you wince, and you can make it ahead so you're not scrambling during the party.
  • Kids actually get excited about drinking something that feels fancy and special, complete with the little cups and ice.
02 -
  • Don't steep the mint any longer than ten minutes or it becomes bitter and grassy instead of bright and herbaceous—I learned this the hard way by letting a batch sit for twenty minutes while distracted by something on the stove.
  • The mint syrup must be completely cooled before assembly, because warm syrup melts the ice too quickly and waters down your drink into something disappointing.
03 -
  • Make your mint syrup the day before and store it in a sealed jar—this actually improves the flavor as it develops overnight, and it removes all stress from party day assembly.
  • Keep your crushed ice in the freezer in a sealed bag so it doesn't clump together, and don't crush it until right before service or it starts melting into mushy pieces.
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