Kentucky Derby Mini Mint Julep (Printer-friendly)

Crisp mint and citrus blend with sparkling ginger ale for a cooling Southern drink.

# 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

# Directions:

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 - Pour cooled mint syrup into a pitcher and add freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well to combine thoroughly.
03 - Divide 2 cups of crushed ice evenly among 6 mini julep cups or small glasses.
04 - Pour the mint syrup-lemon juice mixture over the ice in each glass, filling each one halfway.
05 - Add chilled ginger ale to each glass, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
06 - Top each mini mocktail with a fresh mint sprig and a lemon slice. Serve immediately with short straws.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 10 minutes with zero cooking required
  • Family-friendly and suitable for all ages
  • Vegan and gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs
  • Beautiful presentation in mini glasses makes every sip feel festive
  • Fresh mint syrup adds authentic flavor without artificial ingredients
  • Perfect balance of sweet, citrus, and effervescent notes
02 -
  • Gently slap the mint sprigs between your palms before garnishing to release the aromatic oils
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled for the brightest flavor
  • Choose a high-quality ginger ale with real ginger for the best taste
  • If using store-bought ginger ale, check labels for gluten or other allergens
  • Fill glasses just before serving to maintain the perfect ice-to-liquid ratio
  • Keep all ingredients well-chilled for the most refreshing result
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