How to Make Mint Simple Syrup for a Mint Julep

By
Robin Shreeves
Robin Shreeves
Writer
  • Cairn University
  • Rowan University
  • Wine School of Philadelphia
Robin Shreeves is a freelance writer who focuses on sustainability, wine, travel, food, parenting, and spirituality.
Learn about our editorial process
Updated May 1, 2020
This classic cocktail is easy to make, especially if you start with mint simple syrup. (Photo: Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock)

When mint juleps are served at the Kentucky Derby, they're made with mint simple syrup. It's a way to make the cocktails more quickly than muddling fresh mint and sugar together for each individual drink. The celebrated horse race is on hold this year until September, but that doesn't mean all the traditions need to be tossed.

If you're planning on hoisting a Derby Day drink, using mint simple syrup can make it easier for you to make mint juleps for guests, too. It's quick and easy to make. Make it a few days ahead of time, freeing up even more time on Derby Day.

Mint simple syrup recipe

fresh mint
Use fresh mint to make an easy mint simple syrup. (Photo: Oxana Denezhkina/Shutterstock)

The recipe is a 1:1:1 ratio, meaning it's equal parts water, sugar and mint leaves. Adjust the amount of the ingredients depending on how much simple syrup you want to make. You'll need one ounce of the finished simple syrup for each mint julep.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup of packed mint leaves

Directions

  1. Add water and sugar to a saucepan over medium heat. Heat until the sugar is completely dissolved into the water. Do not boil.
  2. Remove from heat. Toss the mint leaves into the saucepan and put the lid on.
  3. Steep the mint leaves for about 20 to 30 minutes. You may be tempted to leave them in longer for a stronger syrup, but that may result in bitterness.
  4. Strain into a clean container with a lid. Allow to cool.
  5. Refrigerate for up to one week.

Making mint juleps and more

sorbet
Mint simple syrup is versatile. It can be used to flavor soups, iced tea and even refreshing sorbet. (Photo: Foxys Forest Manufacture/Shutterstock)

Use the mint simple syrup in your favorite mint julep recipe, throwing a few fresh leaves in for color and garnish. Don't save the syrup for the Derby Day cocktails only, though. It has many other culinary uses.

  • Flavor unsweetened ice tea or iced coffee.
  • Try it in a different cocktail, like a mojito.
  • Or, make Mojito Sorbet from it, with or without rum.
  • Minty Melon Soup Shots are great for a hot day.
  • Make Strawberries with Mint simple Syrup and Lemon Zest to spoon over vanilla ice cream.