We’re combining two Southern classics (sweet tea and mint juleps) to create these delicious and refreshing Sweet Tea Mint Juleps. If you’re looking for the perfect summer cocktail where you can whip up an entire batch all at once, this may be the drink for you.

I’m back with another quick and easy cocktail recipe that’s ideal for summer parties or summer porch sitting: Sweet Tea Mint Juleps.

I’ve always been an iced tea lover. It’s still one of my go-to beverages when I go out to eat. I’m also a big fan of bourbon (the liquor in a mint julep). In fact, mint juleps were one of the things that helped me to enjoy (and now love) bourbon. I had my first mint julep when I attended the Kentucky Derby several years back. It only took one sip and I was hooked.

In this cocktail recipe, the sweet tea and mint julep come together to create a lovely, refreshing, and easy-drinking cocktail.

TABLE OF CONTENTS hide

1 What is a Mint Julep

2 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

3 Ingredients

4 How to Make

5 Frequently Asked Questions

6 More Bourbon-Based Cocktails You’ll Love

7 Sweet Tea Mint Juleps

What is a Mint Julep

A mint julep is a bourbon-based drink consisting of bourbon, sugar, mint, and crushed ice. It’s mostly recognized for being the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby but also serves as a popular cocktail in the South.

Another popular Southern drink is sweet tea, so putting the two together makes perfect sense.

Now that you know what a mint julep is, let’s walk through the list of ingredients you’ll need to make this cocktail recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds by merging sweet tea and mint juleps. You’ll enjoy the refreshing taste of sweet tea with the added kick of bourbon, making it a delightful choice for summer sipping.
Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a relaxing evening on the porch, this cocktail is easy to make in large batches. It takes the stress out of entertaining, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time mixing drinks.
With just a few ingredients, this cocktail is a breeze to prepare. The combination of mint, lemon, and bourbon creates a light and refreshing drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
This drink captures the essence of Southern hospitality. The blend of sweet tea and mint julep flavors transports you to a Southern porch, evoking the charm and warmth of the region with every sip.

Ingredients

Brewed iced tea: You can brew your iced tea however you’d like. Here I did a sun tea. (Just add your tea bags and water to a glass jar and place it in the sun to brew.) I also highly recommend these cold brew tea bags from Lipton.
Simple syrup: Sweet tea needs sweetness. I find simple syrup the best way to do this. You can use my recipe my homemade recipe or use store-bought.
Mint leaves: Fresh is a must here. I just grabbed some from my garden, but you can pick them up at the grocery store.
Bourbon: If you’ve ever seen my bourbon-based cocktails, then you’ll know Four Roses Single Barrel is my go-to bourbon. If you want something a bit more affordable, try Bulliet.
Sliced lemon: Lemon and iced tea are like peanut butter and jelly for me, a classic combination. Sliced lemon adds a fresh zing and depth of flavor.

I also wanted to quickly mention the glassware I used to serve my Sweet Tea Mint Juleps. These are Nesting Jars from Ball and I’m completely obsessed with them. They function as typical jars and can be used for canning, storage, etc. However, I think they are perfect for a cocktail like this one. What’s even better is that they are stackable. Love that! The empty jars take up very little space in your pantry or kitchen cupboards.

You can find these Nesting Jars or anywhere Ball jars are sold.

Okay, enough chatter, let’s make some cocktails!

How to Make

Let’s make these Sweet Tea Mint Juleps! This is a pretty simple recipe. In addition to the steps here, I’ve also provided a detailed ingredients list and instructions in the printable recipe card below.

To a large container, add the iced tea, simple syrup, mint leaves, bourbon, and lemon slices.

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Stir to combine.
Serve over ice and garnish with sliced lemons and fresh mint.

Sip and enjoy!

Pretty easy, right? You can whip up a big batch and you’ll be ready to go for a night at home or a celebration with friends and family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cocktail is perfect for making ahead. Simply prepare the mixture as instructed, minus the ice, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, pour it over ice and garnish with fresh mint and lemon slices.

What type of bourbon should I use?

You can use any bourbon you prefer, but a mid-range option works best. Since the bourbon is a key component of this drink, you’ll want something with a smooth flavor that complements the sweet tea and mint.

Can I use store-bought iced tea?

Yes, you can use store-bought iced tea if you’re short on time. However, brewing your own tea allows you to control the flavor and strength, which can enhance the overall taste of the cocktail.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this drink?

Of course! To make a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon. You’ll still have a delicious and refreshing sweet tea with a hint of mint and lemon. It’s a great option for guests who prefer not to drink alcohol.

More Bourbon-Based Cocktails You’ll Love

And now it’s time to gather your ingredients, find a cozy spot on the porch, and enjoy a glass (or two) of this delicious cocktail. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just relaxing with loved ones, this drink is sure to add a little extra joy to your summer. I know you’re going to love these Sweet Tea Mint Juleps. Give them a try and let me know what you think by leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.

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Sweet Tea Mint Juleps

5 from 1 vote

Print Pin Rate

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Keyword: bourbon, cocktail, mint julep, sweet tea

Prep Time: 10

Total Time: 10

Servings:

Calories: 349kcal

Ingredients

6 cups freshly brewed unsweetened iced tea cooled
¾ cup simple syrup
1 cup fresh mint leaves plus more for serving
1 ½ cups bourbon
1 sliced lemon plus more for serving
ice

Instructions

To a large container, add the iced tea, simple syrup, mint leaves, bourbon, and lemon slices. Stir to combine.
Serve over ice and garnish with sliced lemons and fresh mint.