Orange Mint Julep

I love a classic mint julep, but I wanted to use up my oranges in the fridge and decided to make an orange mint simple syrup. I thought to myself, what cocktail could this be used in. Why a mint julep! Really this easy simple syrup can be used in anything, I like to add it to sparkling water, a variety of cocktail or even just reduce it further to top a dessert with or ice cream. But today I’m sharing the recipe for my Orange Mint Julep on the blog.

Traditionally a mint julep is bourbon (or another spirit), water, crushed or shaved ice, and fresh mint. As a bourbon-based cocktail, it is of course associated with the American South and the and the Kentucky Derby.

I meant to post this when the Kentucky Derby was on, but life happened and it didn’t happen. But in my world, a Mint Julep can be enjoyed any time of the year. As with most cocktails right? It’s such a simple drink to make, you just need a lot of crushed ice. Either pick some up at the store or make your own at home. I used our Blendtec blender, it did a really decent job.

Use any tumbler, copper mug or a sterling mint julep cup. These cups are on my list of barware to buy soon. Great for a few cocktails, but are the iconic cup for this recipe.

It is a refreshing cocktail, one we enjoyed a recent Saturday night at home. I plan on making this again soon, pairing it with a few small bites to eat. The simple syrup is so easy you can use limes or maybe even grapefruit instead. I think mint goes with so many fruits, you can’t go wrong.

Print

Orange Mint Julep

A citrus twist on the classic mint julep, the drink of the Kentucky Derby and the American South. The simple syrup can be made in advance.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword Cocktail Recipe, Mint Julep

Prep Time 20 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Servings 1 person

Ingredients

• SIMPLE SYRUP
• orange zest
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water
• mint leaves
• 1 cup orange juice
• COCKTAIL
• 1/2 orange cut into 4 pieces
• 1 oz orange mint simple syrup
• orange bitters
• 2 oz bourbon
• crushed ice

Instructions

1. To make simple syrup: Add 2 cups sugar, 1 cup water and 1 cup orange juice to a saucepan.
2. Bring to a gentle boil—be careful not to burn the mixture.
3. Add zest from 1 orange and 1 tbsp fresh mint.
4. Reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and let cool. Pour into an airtight container with strainer and store in the refrigerator.
6. For cocktail: Place one piece of orange into a glass with mint, 1 oz orange syrup and a few dashes of orange bitters. Try to use an old fashioned or julep cup.
7. Muddle all ingredients.
8. Add 2 oz bourbon and stir to combine.
9. Fill the glass with crushed ice and garnish with a few mint leaves.
10. Enjoy!

And don’t forget to try my Blood Orange Campari or Thyme of Your Life cocktails.