I am so excited to share with you a recipe for the Disneyland Mint Julep. This recipe is sweet in taste and memories for me as I hope it will be for you! It isn’t the exact recipe of Disney’s, rather it’s my own take on the park’s signature version. However, the similarities are remarkable! If you don’t live close enough to the Disneyland Mint Julep Bar to grab one of these refreshing beverages, then this recipe is the next best thing! Even better, you can make it in the comfort of your own home!
The Disneyland Mint Julep, Sweet Memories
Growing up in Northern California, my family spent many family vacations enjoyed at Disneyland. I have such fond memories of my trips to the park…the rides, the fantastic shows, and time spent with my family. It was the one time in our childhood where I don’t think my sister and I were fighting with each other. (Just kidding, I love you Kim!) I guess it goes to show that Disneyland really is the Happiest Place On Earth!
My family typically wouldn’t eat inside the park for meals. My father, the ever thrifty man that he was, refused to pay the over-priced theme park food. However, there were a few exceptions, as my Dad had a few favorite items he would never pass up…The Dole Whip, The Mickey Ice Cream dipped in chocolate, and best of all, the Disneyland Mint Julep. One of my fondest memories of our vacations in Disneyland was stopping by the Disneyland mint julep bar to grab the iconic Disney mint julep. Clearly my father’s taste in Disney snackage was hereditarily passed down to me. I am so excited to share my own recipe for the Disneyland Mint Julep!
What’s In a Disneyland Mint Julep?
One thing I must mention is Disney’s recipe for the Mint Julep is not the traditional recipe for Mint Julep served at the Kentucky Derby. That one contains bourbon, mint, and simple syrup, and is obviously not a choice beverage for children. Hence the reason for Disney’s own signature non-alcoholic version. This recipe tastes so similar to Disney’s that I can literally find myself in New Orleans Square, staring at the Haunted Mansion, just “dying” to get in!
Frequently Asked Questions:
No! Disney caters to families and tries to make everything from their food, rides, and movies, something that can be enjoyed by people of all ages! In the same way they adapt their movie story lines, (have you actually heard the original story of Rapunzel? It’s terrifying!), the Disney mint julep is a filtered version of the original Mint Julep which contains bourbon, sugar and mint. However, it is just as enjoyable as the alcoholic version!
If you are a first time visitor to Disneyland, and would like to try Disney’s Mint Julep, it is located in New Orleans Square. Stop by the Disneyland Mint Julep Bar and enjoy this refreshing beverage! They also sell beignets and soft drinks to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Developed in the late 1700s to early 1800s, the original Mint Julep was created within Virginian high society. Today it is the official beverage of the Kentucky Derby and has been served at the famous race track for over 100 years!
No! This recipe allows you to make a pitcher full of approximately 32 ounces of the beverage. A pitcher that amount will substantially serve a family of four. However, sharing your drink does set a good example for your children.
Disneyland Mint Julep
Ingredients
- 1 cup simple syrup (To make simple syrup, combine 1 cup sugar to 1 cup water. Over medium heat, stir mixture until sugar completely dissolves. Don't let mixture boil. Pour into a separate container and let cool to room temperature)
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 4 cups club soda
- 1/2 teaspoon mint extract
- 6 ounces thawed lemonade concentrate
- 2-3 drops green food coloring (optional)
For the Garnish
- 1 can pineapple rings
- A sprig of mint leaves
- Marachino cherries
Instructions
- Make your simple syrup. (It's best to do this ahead of time, to allow mixture to cool completely).
- Into a large pitcher filled with ice, combine simple syrup, lemonade concentrate, club soda, mint extract, and juice from 2 lemons.
- Stir mixture.
- Serve in a glass.
- Garnish your drink with a pineapple ring, maraschino cherry, and sprig of mint.
- Enjoy!
