Pin It Experience the charm of the South with this Kentucky Derby Mint Julep Mocktail, a refreshing and alcohol-free twist on the iconic cocktail. Perfect for hot days and festive gatherings, this drink bursts with the cool, invigorating flavor of fresh mint, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a revitalizing beverage without the buzz.
Pin It What's for Dinner Tonight? 🤔
Stop stressing. Get 10 fast recipes that actually work on busy nights.
Free. No spam. Just easy meals.
This mocktail brings the festive spirit of the Kentucky Derby straight to your glass without needing bourbon. Its crisp sparkle, aromatic mint, and zesty lemon combine to refresh and revive at any occasion.
Ingredients
Tired of Takeout? 🥡
Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.
One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
- Mint Syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- Mocktail
- 1 cup crushed ice
- 1 cup cold sparkling water or club soda
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons mint syrup (from above)
- Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
Still Scrolling? You'll Love This 👇
Our best 20-minute dinners in one free pack — tried and tested by thousands.
Trusted by 10,000+ home cooks.
- Prepare the mint syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, add mint leaves, and steep for 5 minutes. Strain and let cool.
- Fill glasses
- Fill two julep cups or glasses with crushed ice.
- Add flavors
- Pour 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of mint syrup over the ice in each glass.
- Top with bubbles
- Top each glass with 1/2 cup of sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish and serve
- Garnish generously with fresh mint sprigs. Serve immediately with a straw.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra burst of flavor, try muddling a few mint leaves in the glass before adding ice. This helps release more of the mint's aromatic oils, enhancing the overall freshness of your mocktail.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Adjust the sweetness easily by adding more or less mint syrup according to your taste. For a citrusy twist, substitute freshly squeezed lime juice for lemon juice to create a unique variation of this classic mocktail.
Serviervorschläge
This mocktail pairs beautifully with light appetizers or traditional Southern-style snacks, making it a perfect beverage for social gatherings and celebrations.
Pin It 
Embrace the spirit of the Kentucky Derby with this easy-to-make mocktail that delights with every sip. Its fresh, vibrant flavors make it a refreshing choice to enjoy anytime you want a taste of Southern hospitality without alcohol.
Recipe Questions
- → How do you make fresh mint syrup?
Simmer water and sugar until dissolved, then steep fresh mint leaves for 5 minutes and strain before cooling.
- → What is the best way to serve this drink?
Pour over crushed ice in julep cups or glasses, garnish with fresh mint sprigs, and serve immediately with a straw.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Yes, simply add more or less mint syrup according to your taste preferences.
- → Are there alternative citrus options?
Lime juice can be used instead of lemon juice for a different citrus twist.
- → What type of sparkling water is recommended?
Cold sparkling water or club soda works well to add effervescence without overpowering the mint flavor.
