Mint Julep Slush Recipe

We turned a classic bourbon cocktail on its head with one simple change. From crushed ice to slushed ice, this version gives you a refreshing spin on a traditional mint julep that you're going to want to enjoy in and out of Derby season. Mint juleps are the quintessential Southern cocktail; and to Kentuckians, a mint julep is more than a drink. It's a cup of emotion, full of tradition; and the classic version is served in silver julep cups to evoke the regal attitude of the historic drink. These glistening cups are filled to the rim with a refreshing concoction of the finest bourbon, simple syrup, fresh mint, and crushed ice. For this recipe, we used those same ingredients, but packed them in a blender to get an all-new slushy, minty treat finished off with our favorite bourbon. Even colder than the classic, it won't fail to keep you cool no matter the occasion. If you're making these for a party, don't worry about using your very best bourbon. When it comes to mixing cocktails, it's not necessary. The other ingredients—in this case, sugar and mint—that help create the signature flavor of your drink, slightly mask the nuances of a top-shelf bourbon. Serve these slushes in any glasses you'd like, but always garnish with more mint! Pro tip: gently slap each mint sprig against wrist to release mint oils and fragrance before using it in the blender and as a pretty, fragrant garnish.

Mint Julep Slush
Photo: Caitlin Bensel
Active Time:
5 mins
Total Time:
20 mins
Yield:
Serves 2 (serving size: 12 oz.)

Ingredients

  • 3 cups ice cubes

  • 3/4 cup (6 oz.) bourbon

  • 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves

  • 6 tablespoons Simple Syrup

  • Mint sprigs

Directions

  1. Freeze 2 rocks glasses 15 minutes. Process ice, bourbon, mint leaves, and Simple Syrup in blender until very smooth and well blended, about 30 seconds. Pour 1 1/2 cups of the mixture into each frozen glass. Gently slap each mint sprig against wrist to release mint oils and fragrance, and place in glasses. Serve immediately.

Related Articles