Refresh yourself with this easy Grapefruit Julep Cocktail recipe! Combine bourbon, grapefruit juice, honey, and mint for the perfect spring cocktail.
Prep time:
1 minute
Mixing time:
1 minute
Servings:
1
Calories:
187
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- ½ oz honey syrup
- 10-12 fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice
- Grapefruit slice or mint sprig - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Julep Cup or Highball Glass
- Measuring Jigger
- Stirrer or Bar Spoon
Instructions
- Add Mint: Place 10-12 fresh mint leaves in one hand and gently smack it with the other to release its aromas and drop them into the glass.
- Add Grapefruit Juice: Measure and pour 1 oz fresh grapefruit juicee into the glass.
- Add Honey Syrup: Add ½ oz honey syrup to the mix.
- Add Bourbon: Pour 2 oz Bourbon over the ice and mint.
- Fill with Ice: Add crushed ice to fill the cup.
- Stir: Use a bar spoon to energetically stir the ingredients until well combined.
- Garnish: Place a grapefruit slice or mint sprig into the glass for garnish.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Bourbon: If you don't have bourbon, try using rye whiskey for a spicier kick. I've also used dark rum for a sweeter twist.
- Grapefruit Juice: Orange juice can work as an alternative if you're out of grapefruit juice, though it will be sweeter.
- Honey Syrup: You can substitute honey syrup with agave nectar or simple syrup if you prefer a different sweetness profile.
Making a Pitcher of Grapefruit Julep:
- Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 16 oz of bourbon, 8 oz of grapefruit juice, and 4 oz of honey syrup.
- Mix: Start placing the mint in a large pitcher, then combine the bourbon, grapefruit juice, and honey syrup. Stir well.
- Serve: Pour the mixture into individual ice-filled julep cups, garnish with grapefruit slices or mint sprigs, and serve immediately.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Bourbon Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative; these are available and mimic the flavor profile quite well.
- Proceed As Usual: Use this non-alcoholic substitute instead of bourbon, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version.
Making it Vegan:
- Honey Syrup Substitute: Replace honey syrup with agave nectar or maple syrup to keep it vegan-friendly without losing sweetness.
- Proceed As Usual: Follow the original steps using your chosen vegan sweetener for a delicious vegan cocktail.
What is a Grapefruit Julep Cocktail?
A Grapefruit Julep Cocktail is a bourbon-based drink made of fresh grapefruit juice, honey syrup, and mint. It’s easy to make because it involves straightforward steps like pouring and stirring the ingredients together. This cocktail offers a refreshing citrus twist on traditional juleps, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy vibrant flavors in their drinks.
What is a Grapefruit Julep Cocktail made of – The ingredients
Begin with these ingredients to whip up a Grapefruit Julep Cocktail:
- Bourbon: Delivers a warm, rich flavor with hints of caramel and oak.
- Fresh Grapefruit Juice: Infuses the cocktail with a bright, tangy citrus taste.
- Honey Syrup: Adds sweetness and a touch of floral complexity.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: Provides a refreshing herbal aroma and flavor.
- Crushed Ice: Cools the drink and balances the flavors through
- Grapefruit Slice or Mint Sprig (optional): Enhances visual appeal and adds an aromatic garnish.
