Kentucky Derby Mini Mint Julep (Printer-friendly)

A crisp blend of mint syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling ginger ale served in mini glasses.

# Required Ingredients:

→ 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 Steps:

01 - In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring 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.
02 - In a pitcher, combine the cooled mint syrup and 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, filling each glass halfway.
05 - Top each glass with chilled ginger ale and stir gently to combine all ingredients.
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 entertaining
  • Completely alcohol-free, making it ideal for all ages and occasions
  • The homemade mint syrup adds authentic, fresh flavor far superior to store-bought
  • Naturally vegan and gluten-free with simple, wholesome ingredients
  • Beautiful presentation in mini julep cups creates an elegant Derby Day atmosphere
02 -
  • Slap the mint sprigs gently between your palms before garnishing to release their aromatic oils
  • Use a fine mesh strainer when making the syrup to remove all mint leaf particles for a crystal-clear finish
  • Chill your julep cups or glasses in the freezer for 15 minutes before serving for an extra-frosty presentation
  • Don't stir the mocktails too vigorously after adding ginger ale—you want to preserve those bubbles
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a noticeable difference; avoid bottled juice if possible
Go back