10 Refreshing Mint Julep Party Snacks That Pair Perfectly

Written by Sandra P. Hays in Dessert

Sip and nibble—picture a warm porch, crushed mint on ice, and a board of chilled bites that echo that classic Mint Julep flavor. You want snacks that refresh, pair with bourbon, and keep conversation flowing. These Mint Julep Party Snacks hit that note: cool, mint-forward, and balanced with sweet or savory accents.

Inside you'll find ten easy recipes tailored for cocktail hour. Each one pairs mint and bright citrus with textures that pop—crisp crostini, silky spreads, tender shrimp, and a frozen sorbet shooter. You'll get full ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, and simple serving tips.

Whether you're hosting a Derby watch party or a relaxed summer gathering, these Mint Julep Party Snacks will make your spread feel thoughtful and seasonal. Grab your muddler and a tray, and let’s make your next party smell like mint and sunshine.

1. Mint Julep Party Snacks: Bourbon-Glazed Bacon Bites

These bourbon-glazed bacon bites mix sweet, salty, and minty notes. The glaze is sticky and caramelized. Each bite is crisp at the edges and tender inside. They echo Mint Julep flavors with bourbon and fresh mint. People who love bold, finger-food snacks will reach for seconds. Expect a warm caramel aroma and glossy, bronzed edges when done.

Ingredients

  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tbsp bourbon
  • 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Wooden skewers, soaked 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Place a wire rack on the sheet.
  2. Cut bacon slices in half crosswise. Thread two half-slices onto each soaked skewer, overlapping slightly.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, bourbon, maple syrup, Dijon, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer over medium heat 4–6 minutes until sugar dissolves and glaze thickens slightly.
  4. Stir in lemon zest and 1 tbsp chopped mint. Remove from heat.
  5. Arrange skewers on the wire rack. Brush each skewer with glaze. Sprinkle with black pepper and sea salt.
  6. Bake 18–22 minutes, turning once and brushing with glaze again at 10 minutes. Look for golden edges and crisped fat.
  7. Remove when bacon is bronzed and sticky. Let rest 5 minutes to set the glaze.
  8. Just before serving, sprinkle with the remaining 1 tbsp chopped mint.

How to Serve It

Serve warm on a slate board or small plates. Garnish with extra mint sprigs and lemon zest. Pair with iced Mint Juleps or a cold lager. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat briefly in a 350°F oven to crisp. Make-ahead: bake and glaze, then gently reheat before guests arrive.

2. Cucumber Mint Crostini with Lemon Ricotta and Candied Pecans

These crostini are cool and creamy with bright lemon and crisp cucumber. Textures play—crunchy toasted bread, silky ricotta, and crunchy candied pecans. The mint adds a refreshing lift that fits Mint Julep Party Snacks perfectly. They're light, elegant, and crowd-pleasing. Expect a citrusy aroma and clean, herbal finish.

Ingredients

  • 1 French baguette, cut into 20 slices
  • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 cup whole-milk ricotta
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint, divided

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush with 2 tbsp olive oil.
  2. Toast bread 8–10 minutes until edges are golden. Let cool.
  3. In a small skillet, combine pecans, brown sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat 3–5 minutes, stirring until sugar melts and coats nuts. Spread on parchment to cool and separate.
  4. In a bowl, whisk ricotta, lemon juice, lemon zest, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Pat cucumber slices dry to avoid soggy crostini.
  6. Spread 1 tbsp ricotta mixture on each toasted slice. Top with a cucumber round.
  7. Sprinkle with chopped candied pecans and 1 tbsp chopped mint.
  8. Serve immediately, or chill crostini up to 1 hour to keep them crisp.

How to Serve It

Arrange on a chilled platter. Garnish with extra lemon zest and whole mint sprigs. Pair with a chilled Mint Julep or sparkling water with lemon. Store ricotta mixture and candied pecans separately up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving for best crunch. Great for spring and summer parties.

3. Mint Julep Party Snacks: Bourbon-Mint Shrimp with Cilantro-Lime Slaw

Grilled shrimp get a Mint Julep twist with a bourbon-mint glaze. The shrimp are caramelized and slightly charred. The cilantro-lime slaw adds crisp, zesty contrast. This snack pairs with bourbon or a minty cocktail. Shrimp lovers and guests who enjoy finger foods will be delighted. Aromas of char, citrus, and mint make these irresistible.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint, divided
  • 1 cup shredded green cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrot
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp lime zest
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Wooden skewers, soaked 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C).
  2. Thread shrimp onto skewers, brush lightly with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine bourbon, honey, soy sauce, Dijon, and 1/8 cup chopped mint. Simmer 4–6 minutes until slightly reduced and glossy. Remove from heat.
  4. Toss cabbage, carrot, cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, and remaining mint with a pinch of salt to make slaw.
  5. Grill shrimp skewers 2–3 minutes per side, brushing glaze on twice. Shrimp are done when opaque and slightly firm.
  6. Transfer shrimp to a plate and rest 2 minutes. Spoon a little extra glaze over the shrimp.
  7. Serve shrimp over a small bed of slaw with lime wedges.
  8. Taste check: shrimp should be opaque with grill marks, not rubbery.

How to Serve It

Serve on individual mini boards or platters. Garnish with extra mint and lime wedges. Pair with classic Mint Juleps or a dry sparkling wine. Store cooked shrimp in fridge up to 2 days; reheat briefly on a hot pan. Make shrimp and slaw ahead; grill and glaze just before guests arrive.

4. Mini Mint Julep Caprese Skewers

These mini Caprese skewers swap basil for mint for a bright twist. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and cool mint pair well with a balsamic drizzle. They're bite-sized, fresh, and bright. Guests who love fresh herbs and light snacks will enjoy them. Expect a juicy burst, creamy texture, and sharp balsamic finish.

Ingredients

  • 24 cherry tomatoes
  • 24 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
  • 24 small mint leaves
  • 24 small basil leaves (optional)
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 24 3-inch cocktail skewers

Instructions

  1. Pat tomatoes and mozzarella dry with paper towels.
  2. Thread a tomato, mint leaf, mozzarella, and basil leaf (if using) onto each skewer.
  3. Arrange skewers on a platter.
  4. Whisk olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Drizzle over skewers.
  5. Finish with balsamic glaze, sea salt, and black pepper.
  6. Chill 10–15 minutes to let flavors marry.
  7. Serve within 1 hour for best texture.

How to Serve It

Lay skewers on a long tray with extra mint sprigs. Add a small bowl of extra balsamic glaze for dipping. Pair with chilled Mint Juleps or prosecco. Store un-dressed skewers up to 6 hours; dress just before serving. Perfect for a light, mint-forward option among heavier snacks.

5. Mint Julep Party Snacks: Bourbon-Poached Stone Fruit Skewers with Honey-Lime Drizzle

Stone fruit takes on bourbon and mint for a sweet, slightly boozy snack. Poaching softens fruit and infuses flavor. The honey-lime drizzle brightens each bite. This snack balances the Mint Julep theme with fruit-forward sweetness. Guests who prefer lighter, fruity options will love it. Expect a tender texture and warm bourbon aroma.

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced into wedges
  • 2 nectarines, pitted and sliced
  • 2 plums, pitted and sliced
  • 1/2 cup bourbon
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 24 small skewers

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine bourbon, honey, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. Add fruit slices in a single layer. Poach gently 3–5 minutes until fruit is tender but holds shape.
  3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer fruit to a tray. Reduce poaching liquid 4–6 minutes until syrupy.
  4. Stir lemon zest, lime juice, and 1 tbsp chopped mint into the reduced syrup.
  5. Thread fruit onto skewers, alternating varieties. Spoon a little syrup over each skewer.
  6. Chill 15–20 minutes to set flavors or serve warm for a different vibe.
  7. Taste check: fruit should be tender and glossy, not mushy.

How to Serve It

Arrange skewers on a chilled platter and brush with reserved syrup. Garnish with mint sprigs and a dusting of lemon zest. Pair with iced Mint Juleps or sparkling water. Store poached fruit and syrup separately up to 2 days; assemble before serving. Great for brunch or a summer cocktail party.

6. Minty Pea and Feta Crostini with Lemon Oil

Bright minted pea puree meets salty feta and crunchy toast. This crostini brings fresh, vegetal flavor and a silky texture. The mint ties it back to your Mint Julep Party Snacks theme. Herb lovers and vegetarians will enjoy these. Expect a vibrant green color and a spring-like, grassy aroma.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt, plain
  • 1 tbsp olive oil, plus 1 tsp for lemon oil
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • 1 French baguette, sliced and toasted (about 16 slices)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toast baguette slices 8–10 minutes until golden.
  2. In a food processor, combine peas, Greek yogurt, olive oil, mint, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
  3. Taste and adjust salt or lemon.
  4. Spread 1 tbsp pea puree on each toasted slice.
  5. Crumble feta over crostini and drizzle with 1 tsp olive oil.
  6. Garnish with a small mint leaf.
  7. Serve immediately to keep toast crisp.

How to Serve It

Serve on a white platter for color contrast. Add extra crumbled feta and lemon wedges on the side. Pair with a mint-forward cocktail or dry white wine. Store pea puree in fridge up to 2 days; toast and assemble just before serving for best crunch. Offer gluten-free crackers as an option.

7. Bourbon Peach Bruschetta with Fresh Mint and Goat Cheese

Caramelized peaches and tangy goat cheese sit on toasted bread, finished with a bourbon reduction and mint. This bruschetta blends sweet and savory in each bite. It’s a richer Mint Julep Party Snack that pairs well with bourbon. People who like fruit-forward savory snacks will love it. Expect warm, jammy fruit and creamy cheese.

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 4 oz goat cheese, softened
  • 1 French baguette, sliced and toasted (16 slices)
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint
  • Pinch flaky sea salt

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt butter.
  2. Add peach slices and brown sugar. Cook 4–6 minutes until peaches soften and edges caramelize.
  3. Carefully add bourbon and honey. Cook 2–3 minutes to reduce and glaze the peaches. Remove peaches to a plate.
  4. Reduce pan juices to a syrupy consistency, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest.
  5. Spread goat cheese on toasted baguette slices.
  6. Top each slice with a spoonful of caramelized peaches and a drizzle of the bourbon reduction.
  7. Sprinkle with chopped mint and a pinch of sea salt.
  8. Serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve It

Place bruschetta on a rustic board and garnish with mint sprigs. Pair with a classic Mint Julep or an oaked white wine. Store components separately up to 2 days; rewarm peaches gently and assemble before serving. Great for summer and early fall gatherings.

8. Mint Julep Sugar Cookies with Bourbon Glaze

These sugar cookies get a bourbon-mint glaze for a sweet, scented finish. They’re buttery, tender, and slightly crisp at the edges. The glaze adds a subtle boozy mint note to fit Mint Julep Party Snacks. Cookie lovers and anyone with a sweet tooth will enjoy them. Expect a soft crumb and bright mint aroma.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
  • For glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp bourbon
  • 2 tbsp milk (plus more if needed)
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint (or 1/2 tsp mint extract)
  • Green food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
  2. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
  3. Beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  4. Add egg, vanilla, and almond extract. Mix until combined.
  5. Add dry ingredients alternately with sour cream, mixing until dough forms.
  6. Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls and flatten slightly on the baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between cookies.
  7. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Toothpick should come out clean.
  8. Cool on rack 10 minutes before glazing.
  9. Whisk powdered sugar, bourbon, milk, and mint to a smooth glaze. Add more milk to reach drizzling consistency.
  10. Drizzle or spread glaze on cooled cookies. Let set 30 minutes.

How to Serve It

Arrange on a dessert platter with fresh mint sprigs. Pair with iced Mint Juleps or coffee. Store in an airtight container up to 4 days. Make-ahead: bake cookies and freeze unglazed up to 1 month; thaw and glaze before serving. For non-alcoholic option, swap bourbon for extra milk and a splash of vanilla.

9. Mint Chocolate Bourbon Truffles (No-Bake)

Rich chocolate truffles get a mint-bourbon twist for a small, indulgent snack. They're silky inside with a boozy, mint-scented bite. These fit Mint Julep Party Snacks by offering a sweet, mint-forward finish. Chocolate lovers and adults will savor them. Expect a velvety texture and deep chocolate aroma.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp bourbon
  • 1 tbsp light corn syrup or honey
  • 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
  • 1/8 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped toasted almonds (optional, for coating)

Instructions

  1. Chop chocolate finely and place in a heatproof bowl.
  2. Heat cream, butter, and corn syrup in a small saucepan until just simmering.
  3. Pour hot cream over chocolate and let sit 1 minute. Stir until smooth.
  4. Stir in bourbon, peppermint extract, and salt. Chill the mixture in fridge 1–1.5 hours, until firm enough to scoop.
  5. Using a small scoop or spoon, form 1-inch balls. Roll between palms quickly to smooth.
  6. Roll truffles in cocoa powder, or chopped almonds, as desired.
  7. Chill 30 minutes to set.
  8. Store truffles in fridge up to 1 week.

How to Serve It

Serve on a small dessert plate with mint garnish. Pair with a small glass of bourbon or espresso. Keep chilled until serving; remove 5–10 minutes earlier for softer texture. Make-ahead: truffles freeze well up to 1 month; thaw in fridge overnight.

10. Frozen Mint Julep Sorbet Shooters

These mini sorbet shooters mimic a frozen Mint Julep in spoonable form. They’re icy, minty, and perfectly portioned. The sorbet cleanses the palate between savory bites. Guests who want a cool, refreshing finish will love them. Expect a bright mint scent and crisp, icy texture.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup bourbon
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, packed
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp corn syrup (optional, for smoother texture)
  • 8–12 small shooter glasses or mini cups

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat until sugar dissolves to make a simple syrup. Cool slightly.
  2. Add mint leaves to the warm syrup, cover, and steep 15 minutes to extract flavor.
  3. Strain out mint, pressing to release juices. Stir in bourbon, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and corn syrup if using.
  4. Chill syrup thoroughly, at least 1 hour.
  5. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer instructions until sorbet forms.
  6. If no ice cream maker, pour into a shallow pan and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes until icy and smooth (about 3 hours).
  7. Spoon sorbet into shooter glasses and freeze 30 minutes to firm.
  8. Serve topped with crushed ice and a mint sprig.

How to Serve It

Serve sorbet shooters on a bed of crushed ice. Garnish with petite mint leaves and thin lemon curls. Pair with a light cocktail or serve after heavier snacks as a palate cleanser. Make-ahead: freeze sorbet up to 2 weeks; soften 10 minutes before serving. For non-alcoholic shots, replace bourbon with extra water and a splash of vanilla.

These ten Mint Julep Party Snacks give you a full range of flavors and textures, from crisp crostini to silky truffles and icy sorbet. You’ve got sweet, savory, chilled, and warm bites that echo the classic mint-and-bourbon character of a Mint Julep. Try a few recipes that match your guest list and layout. Save or pin this list for your next gathering and share it with friends who love hosting.

Which of these Mint Julep Party Snacks will you try first?

Recent Posts