The mint julep, a sweet and herbaceous bourbon cocktail, has become synonymous with the Kentucky Derby. Every year, attendees drink over 120,000 of them at Churchill Downs! Derby-goers can even partake of a truly special julep priced at $1,000 or $2,500 to benefit the annual Woodford Reserve Mint Julep Charity Program in a yours-to-keep silver or gold cup. While it will be hard for you to top those numbers at your own derby party, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite mint julep–inspired recipes that we promise will go down just as easy.
Prosecco Mint Julep
For a lighter take on the mint julep, try this version with Prosecco from Delish. The bubbles from the sparkling wine complement the caramel notes in the bourbon but still bring forth the bold mint tones. Serve over crushed ice for a cooling refresher!
Treaty Oak Mint Julep
We had to give you at least one tried-and true-recipe, right? Down to the metal cup, this essential Southern cocktail from Treaty Oak Distilling Co. in Dripping Springs is simple and no-fuss. If you’re wanting to stick with the classics, look no further.
Strawberry Mango Mint Julep Fruit Salad with Whipped Marshmallow
Don’t forget to get your daily serving of fruit! How Sweet Eats makes this tropical fruit salad with fresh strawberries, mango, pineapple, bourbon vanilla syrup, and a whipped marshmallow topping. Yes, you read that right: WHIPPED MARSHMALLOW! Easily adaptable to any seasonal fruit, this is perfect for a crowd and the Texas heat.
Mint Julep Lemonade
Let the kiddos in on the Kentucky Derby festivities by giving them a fun drink to sip alongside the adults. This nonalcoholic lemonade from For the Love of Gourmet has all the personality of your favorite mint julep, down to the muddled mint leaves. If you want to spike this drink for adults, the options are endless: bourbon, vodka, tequila, or rum would all be great here!
Pitcher of Mint Juleps
If you’re hosting a Derby Day party, you don’t want to be stuck behind the bar mixing up drink after drink for all of your thirsty guests. With helpful tips from Kitchn, you can make a big batch of simple syrup in advance for a DIY julep station, where your guests can serve themselves.
Mint Julep Popsicles
Who says your mint julep needs to be sipped through a straw? For an unexpected twist, make a batch of these frozen sweet treats as a refreshing take on the classic cocktail. Honestly Yum uses demerara sugar instead of regular granulated sugar to add a nice amber hue to the popsicles and added complexity to the flavor. Don’t worry—there’s still bourbon in here!
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