Refreshing Mint Julep Cocktail Recipe with Fresh Basil and Bourbon Made Easy
A fresh, herbaceous twist on the classic mint julep cocktail featuring fresh basil and bourbon for a lively and refreshing drink perfect for summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Cocktail
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 oz Bourbon Whiskey (e.g., Buffalo Trace or Bulleit)
- 8–10 fresh mint leaves
- 4–6 fresh basil leaves
- 1 oz simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water)
- Crushed ice
- Lemon or orange twist (for garnish, optional)
- Splash of water (about 1 tbsp)
Instructions
- Gently rinse 8-10 fresh mint leaves and 4-6 fresh basil leaves. Pat dry with a paper towel.
- Place the mint and basil leaves in a mixing glass. Add 1 oz simple syrup and a splash of water (about 1 tbsp). Gently muddle 5-7 times to release oils without tearing leaves.
- Pour in 2 oz bourbon over the muddled herbs and syrup.
- Fill the mixing glass with crushed ice. Stir gently with a bar spoon for 15-20 seconds until cold and well combined.
- Fill a julep or rocks glass with crushed ice to the top.
- Strain the mixed cocktail over the crushed ice in the serving glass, allowing some mint and basil to float on top.
- Twist a lemon or orange peel over the glass to release oils, then drop it in or perch on the rim.
- Serve immediately with a straw or cocktail pick and enjoy.
Notes
Do not over-muddle the herbs to avoid bitterness and cloudiness. Use crushed ice for the best chill and dilution. Chill the serving glass beforehand for a cooler drink. Adjust simple syrup and herbs to taste. Fresh herbs are highly recommended over dried.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail (about 6-
- Calories: 150180
- Sugar: 1012
- Carbohydrates: 1012
Keywords: mint julep, bourbon cocktail, fresh basil, summer drink, refreshing cocktail, easy cocktail recipe, backyard barbecue drink