Mint julep recipes for the Kentucky Derby

(Photo by © Erich Wagner via Wikimedia)

It's almost time for the Kentucky Derby, which means one thing: Mint juleps. Yep, we're excited about the race and the spectacle, but let's get real: We're more excited to find the perfect recipe for our icy cocktail (and see the awesome hats, of course).

We've that in mind, we've gathered six different recipes so you can find the variation of mint julep that's right for you so you can enjoy your Kentucky Derby party.

The traditional recipe

The best thing about mint juleps? They're so simple to make. To make the traditional version of the recipe, all you need is Kentucky whisky, mint simple syrup, fresh mint and a glass filled with crushed ice. That's it. And if you want to make prep even easier, go ahead and prepare the syrup ahead of time. Find the recipe from Betty Crocker here.

If you're a fan of champagne

Want to add some bubbly to your mint julep? Go ahead, we won't tell anyone. Try this recipe from TODAY.com, which features champagne, whiskey, a sugar cube, mint leaves and a garnish. Yeah, it's a pretty strong drink (so go slow), but it'll make you feel super sophisticated while you're watching one of the country's most celebrated sporting events. Find the recipe here.

If you can't let go of your sweet tea

Mint juleps are Southern concoctions, but you can double up on the Southern-ness by adding some sweet tea to the mix. The recipe consists of tea, sugar, water, mint leaves, bourbon, lemon slices, mint springs and crushed ice. Plus, it doesn't have as much alcohol as the traditional version, so it's perfect if you want to go a little less crazy this Derby. Find the recipe from Spicy Southern Kitchen here.

If you want to take advantage of strawberry season

Is bourbon a bit too strong for you? Well then, you can infuse it with strawberries (or any other fruits, for that matter) and it'll make it sweeter. But this is something you'll want to do a little ahead of time, because you'll have to place the strawberry/bourbon mix in a dark place for 3-7 days before you can strain it. But, if that seems like too much work, remember: You'll be able to freeze it for up to a month. Find the recipe from Cookie + Kate here.

If you want to take it back to college

Four words: Mint julep Jell-O shots. Yes, it's a thing, and we're here for it. The Kentucky Derby, aka "The Run for the Roses," may be a fancy event, but that doesn't mean you can't down some Jell-O shots -- plus, these are garnished with a mint sprig, so that makes them sophisticated, right? For this recipe, you'll need bourbon, lime juice, lime Jell-O, mint leaves and water. No fancy silver cups needed. Find the recipe from Brown Eyed Baker here.

And finally: Moonshine mint julep

Of course the Internet has a recipe for moonshine mint julep -- and of course it looks delicious. To make it, you'll need moonshine (duh), mint leaves, simple syrup, crushed ice, a fresh mint sprig and lime to garnish. It's a modern spin on the julep that we just can't say no to. Find the recipe by Endless Simmer here.




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