I will gladly wear a big hat if it comes with a cocktail.
Honestly, I’d wear a large hat anyway—to match my big hair—and then I’ll take a large cocktail too.
It just feels perfect. Dramatic. Fun.
If you’ve followed my posts for a while, you know the Kentucky Derby is practically a holiday here. This year, someone actually gets to go and is beside himself with excitement. I’m equal parts thrilled and jealous.
I want to wear a gigantic hat the whole weekend. I probably will.
Last year I made blueberry mint juleps and they were a revelation. I enjoy a classic mint julep, but I like playing with fruity twists—so this time I went with pineapple mint. The scent of pineapple mint is everywhere in soaps and lotions lately, and apparently it inspired me too.
The most important element for a great julep is crushed ice. It really changes the texture and keeps the drink cold without diluting it too fast. I pulverize regular ice cubes in a blender if I don’t have a crushed-ice dispenser. Trust me—use crushed ice if you can.
Decision time: which version do I like better, blueberry or pineapple? I’ll probably have a few of each to find out.
Pineapple Mint Juleps
1
drink, easily multiplied
15 mins
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 ounces bourbon
- 1 ounce mint simple syrup
- 1 ounce pineapple mint puree
- Crushed ice — this is key!
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Mint Simple Syrup
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 bunch fresh mint leaves
Pineapple Mint Puree
- 3/4 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 tablespoons mint simple syrup
Instructions
- Combine bourbon, mint simple syrup, and pineapple mint puree in a shaker and stir or shake well. Fill a glass with crushed ice, pour the mixture over the ice, and garnish with extra mint leaves.
Mint Simple Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and mint. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for about a minute, then remove from heat and let cool completely. Strain out the mint leaves. Refrigerate if making ahead.
Pineapple Mint Puree
- In a blender or food processor, combine pineapple chunks with 2 tablespoons of the mint simple syrup and puree until smooth. Chill if desired.
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I love that this combination exists—refreshing, boozy, and perfect for any festive weekend.