Here you’ll learn how to make a Moscow Mule with 3 ingredients and a little ice served in the iconic copper mug.
Ginger beer, a splash of vodka, and some lime juice are the basics for a fizzy, refreshing, and tangy Moscow Mule cocktail.
What is a Moscow Mule?
- AKA a ‘Vodka Buck’, Moscow Mules are cool and carbonated drinks that have a little fiery bite from the ginger beer. They were first invented in Los Angeles to promote a vodka brand.
- Besides the unmistakable presentation of serving them in a copper cup, it’s said that the copper enhances the individual flavors of the ingredients and works to keep the cocktail extra cold with every satisfying sip! Even the long handle serves to keep your hands from warming the drink.
My Favorite Moscow Mule
Zesty, and refreshing with a spicy kick of ginger, Moscow Mules are a fave at backyard BBQs, cozy holidays, or any lazy weekend afternoon because they’re so easy to make and only need a few ingredients.
What’s in a Moscow Mule?
Vodka: Vodka should be stored in the freezer, so it should already be extra cold. A good quality vodka, like Grey Goose or Absolut, makes for a smoother sip. Experiment with flavored vodkas like citrus, vanilla, or whipped cream, and create a homemade signature cocktail.
Ginger Beer: Look for a flavor profile that’s spicy and sweet when it comes to ginger beer. Bundaberg is a common choice, but Canada Dry recently rolled out a ginger beer made with real ginger in it. Plain ginger ale is an excellent choice for a lower-alcohol-by-volume version.
Lime Juice: Moscow Mules are worth using fresh lime juice, as store-bought lime juice tends to be too acidic.
Ice: The average Moscow Mule cocktail has between 14-16 ounces of cup space, so be sure to have plenty of ice on hand. Cubes are preferred over crushed ice since crushed ice melts too quickly.
Variations: The recipe for Moscow Mules can be personalized to suit what’s on hand. Use bourbon for a Kentucky Mule, tequila for a Mexican Mule, or gin for a London Mule. Besides a slice of lime or mint, candied ginger, a sprig of rosemary, or a few fresh cranberries will give a holiday flair to homemade Moscow Mules.
How to Make a Moscow Mule
- Add ice cubes to a chilled mule mug or glass.
- Add vodka and lime juice (full recipe below).
- Slowly pour ginger beer to fill the mug and lightly stir.
- Garnish with lime or a sprig of mint and serve.
Tips for the Best Moscow Mule
- A copper cup or mug with a handle is essential to making a classic Moscow Mule. But if copper mugs aren’t available, you can use a highball glass. Both should be chilled for the best flavor and presentation.
- Avoid overmixing the cocktail. Once the ginger beer is added, gently use a stir stick to blend the ingredients. Over stirring will flatten the carbonation in the ginger beer, and the drink won’t taste as good as it can.
- Make a pitcher of Moscow Mules by chilling a pitcher with ice and vodka. Stir in the ginger beer and chill another 10 minutes before serving.
Thirst Quenching Drinks…
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Moscow Mule Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 2 ounces vodka
- ½ ounce fresh lime juice 1 Tablespoon
- 4 ounces ginger beer use a spicy ginger beer for extra kick
- lime optional for garnish, cut in wheel or wedge shape
Instructions
- To your Moscow mule cup or other glass, add ice cubes.
- Add vodka and lime juice over the ice. Slowly pour in ginger beer, filling the glass.
- Using a stir stick or spoon, lightly stir to combine the flavors. Don’t overmix, or the ginger beer will go flat.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge if desired and serve.
Notes
- To chill the glass before making the drink, add cubes with water, swirl, and discard.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information does not include optional ingredients or garnish and is an estimate. It may change based on actual ingredients and cooking methods used.
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