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.
And don’t forget to try my Blood Orange Campari or Thyme of Your Life cocktails.
I love orange everything so I’m sure this tastes amazing!
I love how your started with “but I wanted to use up my oranges in the fridge” – so many of my favorite culinary experiments have started that way. It’s a beautiful, delicious sounding drink – and certainly something I’m going to keep in mind, as I’m making my own orange bitters from scratch! Cheers!
Thanks sean, that’s usually how I come up with a recipe. Best way to experiment.
There is a restaurant near our house that has mint juleps as one of their specialties. My boyfriend gets one every time we go. It’s WAY too strong of a drink for me, but I think I’d love this orange rendition. Maybe I’ll have to try it at home!
This recipe has all the elements of a cocktail I will love. I can’t wait to try it. Hey, it’s almost the weekend!
I’ve never tried a mint julep, but I can tell by the ingredients I would love it. I”m so trying your version!
yay! thanks Liz