Mint Chocolate Julep: Signature Candy Cane Syrup Recipe
Sep 16, 2025
If you want a julep that feels like Christmas morning in a silver cup, this Mint Chocolate Julep is your girl. It is cool. It is rich. It is festive enough to make even the grouchiest elf behave. Our Candy Cane Syrup brings bright peppermint flavor with no artificial anything. It turns a classic julep into a holiday treat.
This recipe comes from our friends at Cultivated Cocktails Distillery in Asheville. They swapped the usual simple syrup for a peppermint syrup and added a touch of creme de cacao. It is playful. It is polished. It is exactly what Santa needs before a long night on a cold roof.
The Story of a Christmas Mint Julep
A julep is Southern hospitality in a cup. The Christmas version takes that spirit and wraps it in chocolate and peppermint. The creme de cacao gives the bourbon a soft richness. The Candy Cane Syrup adds a clean, minty lift. Together they turn a warm weather classic into a winter cocktail that tastes like dessert without being heavy.
The Perfect Christmas Mint Julep Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or whiskey (they used Steel Horse)
- 0.5 oz creme de cacao (we used Asheville)
- 0.5 oz El Guapo® Candy Cane Syrup
- Crushed Ice
- Mint sprigs, fresh cranberries and a bit of chocolate for garnish
Instructions
- Add the bourbon, creme de cacao and Candy Cane Syrup to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until well chilled.
- Pack a julep cup with crushed ice.
- Strain the cocktail over the ice.
- Add more crushed ice to form a little crown on top.
- Garnish with mint, a few cranberries and a touch of chocolate.
- Serve right away.
How to Make a Homemade Candy Cane Syrup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed candy canes
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Combine everything in a small pot.
- Simmer until the candy canes and sugar dissolve.
- Let it cool.
- Strain and store in the fridge for up to two weeks.
The Holiday Transformation: Candy Cane Syrup for a Festive Julep
The magic of this julep comes from the Candy Cane Syrup. It adds clean peppermint flavor that lifts the bourbon and pairs beautifully with the chocolate notes. It keeps the drink bright instead of sugary. This is holiday flavor done right. Impeccable sourcing is our love language and you can taste that care in every sip.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mint julep?
It is a classic bourbon cocktail with mint, crushed ice and a touch of sweetness. Ours is the holiday version with chocolate and peppermint.
Can I use another spirit?
Yes. Rye will bring spice. Spiced rum will lean warm and cozy. A non alcoholic bourbon alternative works too.
What else can I do with Candy Cane Syrup?
Add it to coffee or hot chocolate. Stir it into milkshakes. Use it in other mint forward cocktails. It goes fast, so make extra.
