How to Make a Moscow Mule
How to make a classic Moscow mule cocktail: this simple drink is so easy to make with just 3 ingredients! Perfectly balanced and delicious all year ’round.
It’s Friday, woo-hoo!
We’re about to head over to some friends’ house to check out their new deck and enjoy some cocktails!
And with the seasons starting to change, it seems like the perfect time for a Moscow mule.
I am all about a good margarita or strawberry daiquiri (and lemonade for the kiddos!) in the summer, but Moscow mules are just as refreshing! And with that warm ginger bite, they’re even better when the weather starts to cool down.
WHAT IS A MOSCOW MULE?
A Moscow mule is a classic cocktail that’s so easy to make (and drink!).
It’s a little citrus-y, a little spicy, and really fizzy and refreshing. It’s got lime and ginger, and it’s spiked with vodka. So delish!
MOSCOW MULE INGREDIENTS
This easy cocktail recipe has just 3 simple ingredients:
- Vodka
- Lime juice, and
- Ginger beer
Ginger beer is similar to ginger ale, but less sweet and with a more intense ginger flavor. It does not contain any alcohol. You can find it in the soda aisle at your regular supermarket, or order it online here: Ginger Beer.
I like my ginger beer to really taste like ginger. When I can feel a gentle burn at the back of my throat, I’m a happy girl. I’ve tried a lot of different brands, but my favorites by far are Fever Tree and Maine Root Spicy Ginger Brew.
If you’re having trouble finding ginger beer, or if you just prefer a milder, sweeter flavor, you can substitute with ginger ale.
HOW TO MAKE A MOSCOW MULE
This is a really quick and easy recipe that comes together in just 5 minutes or less!
Start by filling your mug (or glass) with crushed ice.
Then add your vodka.
Squeeze your limes, and add in the juice. Freshly squeezed lime juice will take your cocktail from good to great! Leave that bottled stuff on the grocery store shelf; nothing compares to the real deal in terms of flavor.
Then just top everything off with ginger beer. Give it a stir and add a pretty garnish, and sip it while it’s fizzy and icy-cold!
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO DRINK MOSCOW MULES?
Moscow mules can be enjoyed all year ’round.
It’s a cold and really refreshing drink, with a lot of citrus and fizz, so it’s perfect in the spring and summer months.
But because of the warm ginger flavor, it works really well in fall and winter too. That gentle heat at the back of the throat is so nice on a cool, crisp evening!
IS A MOSCOW MULE A GIRLY DRINK OR A MANLY DRINK?
This is one of the things I love most about this drink: anyone can enjoy it!
It’s often served in a masculine metal mug, and it’s got a sharp bite to it, so it’s perfect for guys.
But it’s also fizzy and a little sweet, so women really enjoy it too!
MOSCOW MULE MUGS
Traditionally, Moscow mules are served in mugs made of hammered copper. If you don’t have them, read on for info on where they can be purchased.
Or, just prepare your drink in a regular rocks glass or high-ball.
WHY ARE MOSCOW MULE CUPS COPPER?
Besides just looking cute and trendy, copper mugs will keep your drinks extra cold and super refreshing!
ARE COPPER MUGS SAFE TO DRINK FROM?
I have heard conflicting information on this topic, so if you have any doubt at all, look for mugs that are lined with nickel or stainless steel.
CAN MOSCOW MULE MUGS GO IN THE DISHWASHER?
Although it’s probably perfectly safe to put copper in the dishwasher, it does tend to dull the finish. So if you want to keep your mugs bright and shiny, it’s best to hand wash them with warm soapy water.
WHERE TO BUY MOSCOW MULE MUGS
Moscow mule mugs seem to be readily available just about anywhere you go these days. I’ve seen them in lots of gift shops, as well as at Target, Walmart, and Kohl’s.
But to me, the easiest thing is just to order them online!
That’s what I did for the cups you see in these pics. Here’s a link: Moscow Mule Copper Mugs.
HOW TO MAKE MOSCOW MULES FOR A CROWD
If you’re throwing a party, think about mixing up a big pitcher of Moscow mules!
Just multiply this recipe by 10 and you’ll have enough to fill a pitcher.
But don’t add the ice to the pitcher! It will melt and water down the drinks. Instead, place the ice in each cup before serving. Smart!
MOSCOW MULE VARIATIONS
You can totally customize your Moscow mule by adding in a splash of your favorite fruit juice. I especially love to add a little cranberry juice or apple cider; the flavors really compliment the spicy ginger!
- Rum: if you swap the vodka for dark rum you have a “Dark & Stormy.”
- Whiskey: a Moscow mule made with bourbon or whiskey is called a “Kentucky Mule.”
- Gin: replace the vodka with gin to make a “Gin Mule.”
- Tequila: use tequila for a “Mexican mule.”
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How to Make a Moscow Mule
Ingredients
- 1 /2 cups (14 g) crushed ice
- 2 ounces (56.7 ml) vodka
- 1 tablespoon (14.79 ml) lime juice,, freshly squeezed (juice of 1/2 lime)
- 8 ounces (226.8 ml) ginger beer
- 1 slice lime, (optional garnish)
- 1 sprig fresh mint
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail glass or copper mug with crushed ice, then add vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer.
- Stir to combine, then garnish with a slice of lime and a sprig of fresh mint.
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I would suggest using Tamworth Ginger Vodka for your mules. Superb!