Kentucky Derby Mini Mint Julep (Printable version)

Crisp and sweet mini mint julep with fresh mint and sparkling water; perfect for Derby Day refreshment.

# Needed ingredients:

→ 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

# How to make it:

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 let 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 mint syrup to each glass.
03 - Pour 1/4 cup sparkling water, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon apple juice into each glass. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
04 - Top each mocktail with fresh mint sprigs and lemon slices. Serve immediately with straws.

# Expert advice:

01 -
  • It captures all the Southern charm and minty freshness of a classic without any alcohol, so everyone at your table can celebrate together.
  • The homemade mint syrup takes just 10 minutes and tastes infinitely better than anything store-bought, making you feel like a proper mixologist.
  • These are naturally vegan and gluten-free, which means you're not scrambling to find substitutes last-minute for guests with dietary needs.
02 -
  • Don't skip cooling the mint syrup completely before using it—warm syrup melts ice too quickly and dilutes the whole drink within minutes.
  • The freshness of your mint matters tremendously; store-bought mint from winter months sometimes tastes dusty compared to spring and summer varieties, so taste as you steep.
03 -
  • Prep your mint syrup the morning of your event so it's completely chilled and ready to go without any last-minute rushing.
  • If your guests are mixing their own drinks, keep the syrup, juices, and ice in a designated station with clear labels—people love feeling creative and in control of their drink's sweetness.
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