Strawberry Mint Julep

Strawberry Mint Julep is a simple, fruity twist on the classic cocktail that is simply irresistible. You won’t be able to put this one down this summer!

about this strawberry mint julep

This Strawberry Mint Julep is a fruity, fresh twist on the classic Southern cocktail, and yes, it’s as addictive as it sounds. Made with muddled strawberries, fresh mint, and bourbon, it’s everything you want in a summer sip: cool, sweet, and dangerously easy to drink.

I came up with this one while prepping for a well-earned weekend off. Kentucky Derby prep? Not so much… more backyard picnic in flip-flops. The strawberries bring a juicy pop that softens the bourbon’s bite, while the mint keeps it extra refreshing.

If you’ve never made a traditional mint julep before, this is the best place to start. It’s low effort, high flavor reward, and guaranteed to become a regular on your summer cocktail roster. You could serve it as the official drink of the kentucky derby party OR just sip it on a random weeknight to get your bourbon whiskey fix.

ingredients

Simple syrup – you can pick this up at your local store, but we prefer to make it at home. All you need are equal parts water and sugar. I have a whole guide on how to make simple syrup on the site!

Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed only, please. Bottled lemon juice tends to be too sour.

Strawberries – Hull and slice fresh strawberries. Frozen berries work in a pinch, but fresh is best for muddling for bourbon cocktails.

Mint leaves – Stick with fresh mint for the most flavor.

Bourbon – Go with your favorite mid-range bourbon like Bulleit or Woodford Reserve. Doesn’t need to be top shelf!

Crushed ice – The crushed part matters. It chills the drink fast and gives that signature julep texture.

here’s how to make a strawberry mint julep

muddle

In the bottom of an empty cocktail shaker, add simple syrup, lemon juice, fresh mint leaves, and strawberries. Muddle until the strawberries are broken down and the mint is fragrant.

shake

Add bourbon and ice. Shake well until chilled.

strain

Strain into a julep cup or an old fashioned cocktail glass filled with crushed ice.

garnish

Garnish with mint sprigs and sliced strawberries!

this recipe’s must-haves

For this recipe, you will need your favorite cocktail shaker, a jigger, cocktail strainer, and muddler.

You can serve this cocktail in a cocktail glass or in a julep glass.

tips and tricks

Crushed ice > cubes. The crushed ice chills the cocktail fast and gives you that classic julep texture.

Slap that mint. Gently smack the mint leaves between your hands before adding them to the cocktail shaker to release the oils.

Make it ahead. Muddle the strawberries, mint, syrup, and lemon juice ahead of time, then add bourbon and ice when ready to serve.

Double it. Hosting? This recipe easily doubles (or triples) for a pitcher version.

Finally, if you make this strawberry julep recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

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