Kentucky Derby Mini Mint Julep (Printable)

A crisp blend of mint, citrus, and ginger ale served in refreshing mini julep glasses.

# 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, stirring until sugar dissolves. Add mint leaves and simmer for 1 minute; remove from heat. Let steep for 10 minutes, then strain and cool completely.
02 - In a pitcher, combine the cooled mint syrup and lemon juice. Stir well.
03 - Divide crushed ice among 6 mini julep cups or small glasses.
04 - Pour the mint syrup-lemon mixture over the ice, filling each glass halfway.
05 - Top with chilled ginger ale, stirring gently to combine.
06 - Garnish each mini mocktail with a fresh mint sprig and a lemon slice. Serve immediately with short straws.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Non-alcoholic and family-friendly, perfect for all-ages celebrations
  • Ready in just 10 minutes with simple, fresh ingredients
  • Vegan and gluten-free, accommodating many dietary preferences
  • The homemade mint syrup adds a bright, herbaceous sweetness
  • Mini servings make them festive and fun for Derby parties
02 -
  • Chill all your ingredients beforehand—cold ginger ale and lemon juice mean no dilution from melting ice
  • Use a fine mesh strainer when filtering the mint syrup to remove all leaf particles
  • Slap the mint sprigs gently between your palms before garnishing to release their aromatic oils
  • Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy maximum fizz and freshness
  • For a party, set up a DIY mocktail bar with mint syrup, lemon juice, and ginger ale so guests can mix their own
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