Kentucky Derby Mini Mint Julep (Printable)

A crisp blend of fresh mint, lemon, and sparkling ginger ale for a festive cooling drink.

# What You Need:

→ Mint Syrup

01 - 1/2 cup water
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, lightly packed

→ Mocktail Assembly

04 - 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
05 - 2 cups crushed ice
06 - 2 cups chilled ginger ale, gluten-free
07 - Fresh mint sprigs for garnish
08 - Lemon slices for garnish

# How to Make It:

01 - In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Add mint leaves and simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Let steep for 10 minutes, then strain through fine mesh and cool completely.
02 - In a pitcher, combine the cooled mint syrup and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well to incorporate.
03 - Divide crushed ice evenly among 6 mini julep cups or small glasses.
04 - Pour the mint syrup and lemon juice mixture over the ice, filling each glass to the halfway point.
05 - Top each glass with chilled ginger ale, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
06 - Garnish each mocktail with a fresh mint sprig and lemon slice. Serve immediately with short straws.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to make in just 10 minutes, perfect for last-minute entertaining
  • Family-friendly and inclusive, so everyone can enjoy Derby Day together
  • Fresh mint syrup delivers authentic mint julep flavor without any alcohol
  • Customizable to suit different taste preferences and dietary needs
  • Beautiful presentation in mini glasses makes every sip feel festive
  • Vegan and gluten-free, accommodating a variety of dietary requirements
02 -
  • Chill your mini julep cups or glasses in the freezer for 15 minutes before serving for extra-frosty drinks
  • Gently slap or clap the mint sprigs between your hands before garnishing to release their aromatic oils
  • Use a fine mesh strainer when making the mint syrup to ensure no leaf bits end up in your final drink
  • Keep extra crushed ice on hand so guests can refill their glasses and keep drinks cold
  • For a crowd, multiply the recipe and pre-mix the mint syrup and lemon juice in a large pitcher, then add ginger ale just before serving
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