Mint Julep in 28 Minutes

Instructions:

1. Combine the granulated sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Once the mixture reaches a gentle simmer, remove the pan from the heat immediately and stir in the packed mint leaves.
3. Cover the pan and let the mixture steep for 15–20 minutes to infuse the mint oils.
4. Pour the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a glass jar, pressing down on the leaves to extract all flavor, then discard the leaves.
5. Place the syrup in the refrigerator until completely chilled.
6. Fill a highball glass or Julep cup to the brim with crushed ice.
7. Pour 2–3 tablespoons of the chilled mint syrup over the ice.
8. Top the glass with chilled lemonade and stir gently with a long spoon to incorporate the syrup.
9. Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint and a thin lemon slice.