Kentucky Derby Mini Mint Julep (Print Version)

A crisp blend of fresh mint, lemon, and ginger ale served in mini julep glasses for a cooling beverage.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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 until sugar dissolves completely. Add fresh mint leaves and simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain through fine mesh and cool completely.
02 - Pour cooled mint syrup into a pitcher and combine with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well to blend thoroughly.
03 - Divide crushed ice evenly among 6 mini julep cups or small glasses.
04 - Pour the mint syrup and lemon juice mixture over the ice in each glass, filling halfway.
05 - Add chilled ginger ale to each glass, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
06 - Top each mocktail with a fresh mint sprig and lemon slice. Serve immediately with short straws.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Non-alcoholic and family-friendly, perfect for all ages at your Derby celebration
  • Ready in just 10 minutes with simple, fresh ingredients
  • Beautiful presentation in mini julep cups adds authentic Southern charm
  • Naturally vegan and gluten-free with crisp, cooling mint flavor
  • Make-ahead mint syrup saves time on party day
02 -
  • Prepare mint syrup up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate for easy party prep
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled for the brightest, cleanest flavor
  • Chill your julep cups in the freezer for 15 minutes before serving for extra-frosty drinks
  • Gently slap fresh mint sprigs between your palms before garnishing to release aromatic oils
  • Keep ginger ale ice-cold and add it at the last moment to preserve maximum bubbles
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