Best Strawberry Mint Julep Cocktail
recipe using fresh strawberries
Easy homemade recipe for strawberry mint julep for a delectable derby cocktail idea to impress your Kentucky derby party guests.
Kentucky Derby Cocktail Idea
The Kentucky Derby is not just a horse race, it’s a cultural event steeped in tradition and indulgence. And what better way to indulge than with a refreshing, handcrafted cocktail? Look no further than the classic mint julep, with a twist. Introducing the Strawberry Mint Julep – a modern twist on a beloved classic, using fresh, juicy strawberries to add a burst of flavor.
Strawberry season comes around the same time as the Kentucky derby, so I thought what perfect way to add a flavor twist to a mint julep than to add a burst of sweet strawberry flavor.
These strawberry mint juleps are made with homemade strawberry simple syrup, fresh mint and Kentucky bourbon…and don’t forget the crushed ice!
So, grab your fancy hat and let’s learn how to make this must-try classic Kentucky Derby drink with a strawberry twist!
Ingredients for strawberry mint julep
- strawberry simple syrup (1 cup each: sugar, chopped strawberries, water – recipe to follow)
- 1 cup chopped strawberries
- 3-5 fresh mint leaves
- bourbon
- crushed ice
Note: you will also need a muddler and extra mint sprigs for garnish if desired.
How to make a strawberry mint julep cocktail
Instructions:
First, make the homemade strawberry simple syrup with fresh strawberries:
Add 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water and 1 cup chopped strawberries to a sauce pot. Simmer on med-low for approximately 20-22 minutes, until liquid is dark red and slightly thicker.
Remove from heat and use a fine mesh strainer to strain liquid into a measuring cup or bowl and let cool in fridge for at least 30 minutes. TIP: You can use leftover strawberries for topping yogurt or ice cream!
To make strawberry mint julep:
To a cocktail shaker, add 3-5 fresh mint leaves, equal parts strawberry simple syrup and bourbon (I usually do 2 oz each per drink.) Use a muddler and muddle mint with ingredients for at least 15 seconds, then add ice and place top on shaker. Shake vigorously for 5 seconds and then strain into a serving glass or mint julep cup. Top with crushed ice, fresh sliced strawberries and a fresh mint spring.
I also like to drizzle a tiny bit of strawberry simple syrup right on top of the crushed ice for a pink hue and sweet kick! To find the mint julep cups and muddle stick like I used, click HERE to purchase on Amazon. (Discloser: Inspiration Apron LLC may receive a small affiliate commission for any purchase made.)
Click HERE for more derby party ideas that are budget friendly and easy to make!
Learn how to make your own Kentucky Derby hats, delicious derby foods and drinks and more!
Enjoy!
💜Julie
Best Strawberry Mint Julep Cocktail
Ingredients
- strawberry simple syrup recipe below
- fresh mint leaves
- Kentucky bourbon
- crushed ice
Disclaimer:
Nutritional Information is provided as a courtesy only and should be viewed as an estimate. Ingredients can vary with brands and size and Inspiration Apron makes no guarantees to the accuracy of this information.
Instructions
- First, make the strawberry simple syrup: Add 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water and 1 cup chopped strawberries to a sauce pot. Simmer on med-low for approximately 20-22 minutes, until liquid is dark red and slightly thicker.
- Remove from heat and use a fine mesh strainer to strain liquid into a measuring cup or bowl and let cool in fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- To a cocktail shaker, add 3-5 fresh mint leaves, equal parts strawberry simple syrup and bourbon (I usually do 2 oz each per drink.)
- Use a muddler and muddle mint with ingredients for at least 15 seconds, then add ice and place top on shaker. Shake vigorously for 5 seconds and then strain into a serving glass or mint julep cup. Top with crushed ice, fresh sliced strawberries and a fresh mint spring. Serve immediately.