We have created a scrumptious Spiced Mint Julep recipe that I am sure you will all love. This spicy citrus drink, with a hint of fresh mint, is perfect for a winter party or a quite evening at home. The spiced simple syrup requires 24 hours to steep, so plan ahead, it will be worth it!

Spiced Mint Julep

Spiced Mint Julep:

5 mint leaves

3 orange wedges

1 ounce grapefruit juice

1 ounce spiced simple syrup (recipe below)

1.5 ounces bourbon

0.5 ounces Grand Marnier

1 cinnamon stick for garnish

Muddle torn mint leaves, orange wedges, and Grand Marnier in glass. Fill glass half full with crushed ice. Pour in bourbon, spiced simple syrup, and grapefruit juice, stir well. Fill the rest of the glass with ice, stir and garnish with cinnamon stick and sprig of mint.

Servings: makes one 12 ounce drink

Spiced Simple Syrup:

2 cups sugar

2 cups water

zest from half an orange ( use a vegetable peeler to get large strips)

1 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp ground coriander

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp whole black pepper corns

6 whole cloves

2 all spice berries

1/8 tsp cayenne

1 pinch salt

In a small saucepan, bring water, sugar, and orange zest to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. When mixture comes to a boil remove from heat and add all the spices, stirring to combine. Once mixture is cooled refrigerate for 24 hours in a sealed container, then strain. Simple syrup will keep for two weeks in refrigerator. Be sure to stir the syrup before use, all the best flavor is at the bottom!