Distilled

Shaved Ice with a Kick: Mint Julep Granitas

The Derby favorite gets the freezer treatment
A shaved ice mint julep in a cup

Photo: KATHERINE COBBS / BLUELINE CREATIVE GROUP

Kick off happy hour with this spirited snow cone: a mint julep granita that transforms any glass into the winner’s circle. Finely chop the mint to release its fragrant oils into the sugar syrup, then add the bourbon’s bass notes and enhance the mint flavor with a splash of Crème de Menthe. Let freeze for about eight hours before you’re ready to serve. The booze in this mix keeps it from freezing hard, making it easy to scrape into fluffy flakes with a fork. Scoop the granita into glasses or small bowls and garnish with a mint sprig for an ultra-refreshing version of the race-day classic you can eat with a spoon.

glass of bourbon with ice
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Mint Julep Granitas

Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

    • 3 cups water

    • 1 ⅓ cups sugar

    • ½ cup packed finely chopped fresh mint

    • ¾ cup bourbon

    • 1 tsp. Crème de Menthe

    • Mint sprigs, for serving

Preparation

  1. Bring the water and sugar to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the chopped mint. Remove from the heat and let syrup cool completely, about 30 minutes. 

  2. Strain the mint syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into an 8 x 8 metal baking pan, discarding solids. Stir in the bourbon and Crème de Menthe. Cover and freeze 8 hours or until firm. Remove mixture from freezer and scrape with a fork to flake the ice until fluffy. Place about ½ cup granita in each of 8 small bowls or short glasses. Garnish with mint sprigs to serve.