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Refreshing Lavender Mint Julep with Honey Syrup

lavender mint julep - featured image

A twist on the classic mint julep featuring a delicate floral note from lavender combined with fresh mint and mellowed by a smooth honey syrup. Perfect for summer gatherings and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1012 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds (food-grade)
  • ยฝ cup (120 ml) honey (raw or local preferred)
  • ยฝ cup (120 ml) water
  • 3 oz (90 ml) bourbon whiskey (smooth, medium-bodied)
  • Crushed ice
  • Lemon zest from 1 lemon (optional)
  • Mint sprigs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the Lavender Honey Syrup: Combine ยฝ cup honey, ยฝ cup water, and 1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds in a small saucepan. Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until honey dissolves. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain out the lavender using a fine mesh strainer and let syrup cool to room temperature.
  2. Prepare the Mint: Place 10-12 fresh mint leaves in your julep cup or glass. Gently muddle them with a muddler or wooden spoon to release oils without bruising too much.
  3. Add the Syrup and Bourbon: Pour 1 oz (30 ml) of the cooled lavender honey syrup over the muddled mint. Add 3 oz (90 ml) bourbon whiskey. Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
  4. Fill with Crushed Ice: Fill the glass to the top with crushed ice, gently stirring once more to chill and mix the drink evenly until the glass frosts.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Add a fresh sprig of mint and a small twist of lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately with a straw or stirrer.

Notes

Do not over-muddle the mint to avoid bitterness. Use crushed ice for proper chilling and dilution. Steep lavender gently off heat to prevent bitterness. Stir gently instead of shaking to preserve mint flavor. Chill glasses beforehand for a frosty finish. The syrup can be made up to two weeks ahead and stored refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: lavender mint julep, honey syrup, bourbon cocktail, summer drink, floral cocktail, easy julep recipe