Candy Cane Julep Cocktail Recipe

Honestly, I get a kick out of making holiday drinks that look festive but don’t take a ton of effort. A julep already feels crisp and refreshing, and throwing in some candy canes gives it that playful, seasonal vibe—without making things complicated.

This Candy Cane Julep Cocktail brings together mint, bourbon, and crushed candy cane for a holiday drink that’s ready in a snap.

Every time I whip this up, I’m surprised by how the cool mint and the sweet peppermint from the candy cane just work together. It’s light, not heavy at all, so it fits for a holiday party or just a random night in.

The ingredients are super basic, and you don’t need any weird gadgets. I mean, who wants to fuss with equipment when you’re already juggling a dozen other things?

I’ll break down the recipe step by step. Oh, and I’ll let you know what to expect from the flavor, too—just so you’re not caught off guard.

Candy Cane Julep Cocktail Recipe

There’s something about this cocktail—the mint, the candy cane, the whole thing just screams festive. But honestly, it’s not fussy at all if you’ve got the right stuff and don’t mind a few simple steps.

Equipment

Before I start, I always lay out my tools. It’s just easier that way, otherwise I end up digging through drawers mid-shake.

• Cocktail shaker so you don’t end up with a lumpy mess
• Muddler for smashing the mint and getting those oils out
• Measuring jigger—I try to eyeball it sometimes, but it never ends well
• Martini glass or julep cup, whatever looks festive
• Small saucepan if you’re making candy cane syrup from scratch
• Strainer to keep the mint leaves and ice chunks out of your glass
• Bar spoon for a quick stir if you feel like it
• Ice crusher or mallet because crushed ice just makes it better

Honestly, the crushed ice chills everything down so fast, and it looks kind of fancy, too. And using a shaker? It just helps blend the candy cane syrup into the bourbon a lot better.

Ingredients

I try to keep the ingredient list short but tasty. Mint and candy canes are the stars, and the rest just rounds things out.

• Fresh mint leaves (I grab about 8–10, maybe a few more if I’m feeling it)
• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz candy cane syrup (just melt crushed candy canes with water and sugar)
• 1 oz ginger beer for a bit of zing
• 1 small candy cane for garnish
• Extra crushed candy canes for rimming the glass
• Crushed ice—the more, the merrier

The ginger beer gives it a little fizz and stops it from getting too sweet. I love rimming the glass with crushed candy canes; it’s a small thing, but it looks super festive.

Instructions

I keep the steps in order so the flavors blend the right way. It’s not rocket science, but it does make a difference.

• Gently muddle the mint leaves at the bottom of your shaker.
• Pour in the bourbon and candy cane syrup.
• Add ice to the shaker and shake it until everything’s nice and cold.
• Strain into a martini glass or julep cup packed with crushed ice.
• Splash a bit of ginger beer on top.
• Garnish with a small candy cane and a fresh mint sprig.
• If you want to get fancy, rim the glass with crushed candy canes before you pour.

I usually shake for about 15 seconds, maybe a bit longer if I’m distracted, just to be sure the mint oils really get in there.

Notes

Honestly, homemade candy cane syrup just tastes better than anything store-bought. It’s super easy: simmer crushed candy canes with equal parts water and sugar until it’s smooth.

If it comes out too sweet for your taste, just add more ginger beer or use a little less syrup next time. Fresh mint is a must—dried mint just doesn’t cut it.

Sometimes I swap the bourbon for rum if I’m in the mood for something lighter. And if you chill your martini glass ahead of time, the drink stays cold and crisp even longer.

Tasting Notes

When I take my first sip, the cool mint hits almost instantly. It’s fresh and clean—reminds me a little of a classic julep, though there’s something a bit more festive going on here.

The candy cane brings in a gentle sweetness, with that soft peppermint vibe. It’s subtle, honestly, but hangs around just enough to keep the bourbon in check.

Then there’s the bourbon—warm, smooth, and kind of comforting. Those caramel and vanilla notes just sort of blend in with the peppermint, making everything feel extra cozy.

The finish? It’s crisp, and there’s this little hint of sugar from the crushed candy garnish. I appreciate that the sweetness stays in the background and never takes over.

Honestly, what I love most is the way the cool mint and warm bourbon play off each other. The cocktail feels refreshing, yet still rich enough that I’d want it when it’s cold out.