Mint Julep Punch Recipe
Introduction:
This Mint Julep Punch is perfect for festive gatherings, especially when celebrating the Kentucky Derby, but it’s just as refreshing for any occasion. Its sweet, tangy, and minty flavors blend together for a delightful punch that’s sure to please a crowd. While it takes only 10 minutes to prepare, remember to allow enough time for chilling to achieve the best taste. Whether you’re serving this punch for a large party or just a small gathering, it makes about 5 ½ quarts, which translates to around 32 servings using standard 5-ounce punch cups. With such a large batch, it’s an ideal choice for any big celebration.
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | cup of water |
| 2 | cups of bourbon |
| 1 | cup of lime juice |
| 1 | cup of water |
| ½ | lime slice |
| 2 | tablespoons of fresh mint leaves |
| 2 | bottles of 7-Up (optional for fizz) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 32 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 154.9 |
| Fat | 0.1g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 9.3mg |
| Carbohydrates | 17.3g |
| Fiber | 0.2g |
| Sugars | 13.5g |
| Protein | 0.2g |
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by combining the jelly and 2 cups of water in a medium-sized saucepan. Place the saucepan over low heat, and stir gently until the jelly completely melts. |
| 2 | Once the jelly has melted, allow the mixture to cool down. This step is crucial for balancing the flavors in the punch. |
| 3 | After the jelly mixture has cooled, add the bourbon, lime juice, and another 2 cups of water to the mixture. Stir well to blend all ingredients. |
| 4 | Place the combined mixture in the refrigerator and chill for at least a couple of hours to let the flavors meld together perfectly. |
| 5 | When you’re ready to serve the punch, pour the chilled juice mixture into a large punch bowl filled with ice. The ice helps keep the punch refreshingly cold. |
| 6 | Slowly pour in the 7-Up, stirring gently to incorporate the fizz without losing too much carbonation. This step adds a delightful sparkle to the punch. |
| 7 | Garnish with thin lime slices and fresh mint leaves for a beautiful, fresh look. You can also offer extra mint sprigs for guests to add to their cups for more aroma. |
This Mint Julep Punch is refreshing, easy to make, and always a hit at parties. The combination of bourbon, mint, and lime brings out the best of Southern hospitality, while the sparkling touch of 7-Up adds an effervescent twist.
Tips for Success:
- Chill Ahead of Time: For the best flavor, allow the mixture to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours before serving.
- Mint Garnish: Fresh mint leaves not only enhance the flavor but also add an enticing fragrance to the punch. Be sure to have extra on hand for guests to garnish their drinks.
- Optional Sparkle: The addition of 7-Up or any lemon-lime soda adds a fun fizz to the punch. For a more classic punch, you can omit the soda and simply serve over ice.
