- June 8, 2018
- "Book" Club
“Romeo and Julep”: A Prosecco Mint Julep Recipe
A fun riff on the classic recipe for a mint julep. This easy to make cocktail is topped with fizzy prosecco for the perfect refreshing drink to share with friends and family.
This recipe was created as a part of my Instagram “Bon Appeteach Book Club”. We never read the books, just make drinks named after them!
So this Romeo and Mint Julep cocktails is really a catchy name for adding a sparkling wine to this classic bourbon cocktail. I’m also no stranger to a good “champagne” cocktails (like this French 75 the Ouzo 75 or even this fun Rose Aperol Spritz).
If you’ve never had a mint julep cocktail, then you’re in luck. While many people probably drink this in celebration of the Kentucky Derby (or for Derby parties), it’s really great for any occasion. With only four simple ingredients too, you’ll be making this on more than one occasion.
Below I’ll walk you through this simple drink recipe and share possible substitutions for make this with less added sugar or to even be a keto friendly and lower carb drink (if you desire). Let’s dive in!
“School” Supplies:
- Cocktail Shaker
- Muddler (or use a wooden spoon)
- Cocktail Strainer
- Jigger
“Class” Notes:
While this really doesn’t warrant a long explanation of how to whip up this drink, I do like to break down some helpful information for my readers, provide substitutions, and give tips for garnishing and even food pairings. Grab the details below or jump to the recipe and get to sipping!
Is prosecco keto friendly?
Prosecco is surprisingly fairly low in carbs for a single serving and can definitely fit into a low carb diet. This recipe calls for a 3 oz. topping of prosecco, which comes out to about 1 net carb per ounce (depending on the brand).
While this sweeter champagne won’t necessarily spike your blood sugars, it’s good to understand how alcoholic drinks in general impact a ketogenic diet and ultimately weight loss. You read more in depth about this topic in my guide on, “How to drink alcohol on a keto diet”, to help answer commonly asked questions and more!
How to make a prosecco topped mint julep:
Jazz up a classic mint julep recipe with this easy, prosecco topped version for a little extra flare (bubbles and all)!
Here is what you need:
- 2 oz. Bourbon: Use whatever bourbon you enjoy drinking. I used Four Roses.
- 1/2 oz. Simple Syrup (keto version available): Simple syrup is so easy to make. Check out the details on my sugar free version that is perfect for keeping cocktails low in net carbs and ketogenic diet friendly.
- 3 oz. Prosecco: Use any brand of prosecco you enjoy drinking. See notes above about the sugar content in prosecco too!
- Fresh Mint (2 sprigs)
- Crushed Ice
How to build your cocktail:
Here are a few simple tips to building this cocktail recipe. Start by using your cocktail shaker and pour in the simple syrup.
The notable component to this recipe is the fresh mint. To get the flavors of the mint to naturally releases, slap it together a few times in your hands then place it into the cup with your simple syrup.
Next, you need to muddle the mint and the syrup together to essentially create mint simple syrup. I find that this is the quickest way to create this drink without having to specifically make a full batch of a mint flavored syrup.
After the oils in the mint are released, mix in your bourbon. Shake well over ice until the mixture is chilled, about 10-15 seconds. Strain the mixture into your julep cup (or cup of choice). I like to pour it over crushed ice too.
Finish the drink off with a nice topping of the prosecco. Garnish with more fresh mint (don’t forget to slap it again) for a pop of color and nice aromatics when you get to sipping.
Food paring ideas:
If you plan on sipping on this drink, you may want to enjoy some snacks to go with it. Here are some of my favorites that I think you may like to serve up as well.
- Try this (keto friendly) Croque Madame recipe for a brunch recipe/ cocktail combo.
- This amazing three ingredient beer cheese recipe (add all your favorite veggies, crackers, or bread for dipping).
- Keep it classier with these addictive and easy salmon cakes made with cooked salmon!
- Want to switch things up? Try these Hot Honey Hawaiian Chicken Wings too!
Prosecco Mint Julep
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Bourbon
- 1/2 oz. Keto Simple Syrup
- 3 oz. Prosecco
- Fresh Mint 2 sprigs
- Crushed Ice
Instructions
- In a julep glass (or other glass of choice), add 1 mint spring and the simple syrup of your choice. Carefully, muddle the mint to activate the aromatics and the oils in the mint.
- Add the bourbon and give it a quick shake over ice until chilled.
- Add the crushed ice to the glass and strain the cocktail mixture into the cup then top off with the prosecco. Garnish with a mint spring and enjoy!