Candy Cane Julep
A festive julep with bourbon, mint, and homemade candy cane syrup—chilled over crushed ice and finished with ginger beer. Crisp, playful, and perfect for holiday parties or cozy winter sipping.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Measuring jigger
- Martini glass or julep cup
- Small saucepan
- Strainer
- Bar spoon
- Ice crusher or mallet
Ingredients
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz candy cane syrup homemade preferred
- 1 oz ginger beer
- crushed ice as needed
- 1 small candy cane for garnish
- crushed candy canes for rimming glass
Instructions
- Muddle mint leaves at the bottom of your shaker.
- Add bourbon and candy cane syrup.
- Add ice and shake until well chilled (about 15 seconds).
- Strain into a martini glass or julep cup filled with crushed ice.
- Splash ginger beer on top.
- Garnish with a candy cane and fresh mint. Rim the glass with crushed candy canes for extra festivity, if desired.
Notes
Homemade candy cane syrup is easy: simmer equal parts crushed candy canes, water, and sugar until smooth. Adjust ginger beer and syrup to taste. Try rum for a lighter twist. Chill your glass for an extra-refreshing julep!