Kentucky Derby Mini Mint Julep (Printable)

A refreshing blend of mint, lemon, and ginger ale for a festive Kentucky Derby celebration.

# Ingredient list:

→ 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 constantly until sugar dissolves completely. Add mint leaves and simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Allow to steep for 10 minutes, strain through fine mesh, and cool completely to room temperature.
02 - In a pitcher, combine the cooled mint syrup with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well to blend thoroughly.
03 - Divide crushed ice evenly among 6 mini julep cups or small glasses, filling each approximately three-quarters full.
04 - Pour the mint syrup and lemon juice mixture over the ice in each glass, filling to approximately halfway mark.
05 - Top each glass with chilled ginger ale and stir gently to combine all ingredients without over-mixing.
06 - Garnish each mocktail with a fresh mint sprig and a lemon slice. Serve immediately with short straws.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes, perfect for last-minute Derby gatherings
  • Family-friendly and inclusive, suitable for all ages at your celebration
  • Customizable with simple variations like lime juice or diet ginger ale
  • Vegan and gluten-free, accommodating a wide range of dietary needs
  • Beautiful presentation in mini julep cups adds festive Southern charm
02 -
  • Slap the mint sprigs gently between your hands before garnishing to release aromatic oils
  • Use a fine mesh strainer when making the syrup to ensure no small mint particles remain
  • Chill your julep cups in the freezer for 15 minutes before serving for an extra-frosty presentation
  • Pour the ginger ale slowly down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation
  • For consistent portions, use a small measuring cup or ladle to divide the mint syrup mixture evenly
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