Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSmoke HouseMint Texas Julep Recipe

Mint Texas Julep Recipe

Inspired by Smoke House
Time7m
Serves1

Make Mint Texas Julep Recipe in just 7m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Julep Base

Method

Julep Base

  1. 1

    Prepare mint and simple syrup

    Place 8 of the mint leaves into the bottom of your julep cup or rocks glass. Add 0.5 oz simple syrup on top of the leaves.

  2. 2

    Muddle gently

    Using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, gently press the mint leaves just enough to release aromatic oils. Do not shred or pulverize the mint — aim for gentle bruising for 6–8 light presses.

  3. 3

    Add bourbon

    Pour 2.5 oz bourbon over the muddled mint and syrup. Give the mixture a quick gentle stir with a bar spoon—about 4–6 steady turns—to marry the flavors.

  4. 4

    Optional bitters

    If using, add 1 dash of Angostura bitters on top and stir once more to integrate (this adds a subtle aromatic complexity).

Garnish & Finish

  1. 5

    Fill with crushed ice

    Pack the cup firmly with crushed ice up to and slightly above the rim. Use the bar spoon to push the ice down so the drink is well chilled and the aromas are trapped.

  2. 6

    Top and garnish

    Using the remaining 4 mint leaves, clap them once between your palms to release oils, then nestle them as a garnish atop the crushed ice with a single mint sprig. If desired, lightly dust 1/4 tsp powdered sugar over the mint for visual contrast.

  3. 7

    Serve

    Serve immediately with a short straw or sip from the glass. As the ice melts, gently stir once to keep flavors balanced. Yield: one serving.

Tools & Notes

  1. 8

    If you prefer a colder, slightly more diluted julep, pre-chill the cup in the freezer for 10 minutes and use more crushed ice. For a less sweet julep, reduce simple syrup to 0.25 oz. All tools listed correspond to steps above (muddler for bruising mint, bar spoon for stirring, strainer only if you choose to double-strain any torn mint leaves).

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