Deck the halls with copper mugs and Moscow mules. Make something special out of this fizzy classic by tossing in some cranberry juice. This one might do a number on your liver but it'll keep your kidneys in tip-top shape. Whether you're party planning for the holidays or need to get your body back in peak performance, this breezy drink will always go down smooth.
How to Make a Cranberry Moscow Mule
Cranberries, with their tart, fruity flavor, are the perfect foil for ginger beer's infamous bite. Because you're only adding one ingredient, the cranberry Moscow mule is a great way to dip your toes into the cocktail-making world. This is one recipe you won't be able to mess up.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces vodka
- 4 ounces cranberry juice
- ¾ ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- Ice
- Ginger beer to top off
- Lime wheel, rosemary sprig, and fresh whole cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- In a copper mug, add ice, vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
- Top off with ginger beer.
- Garnish with lime wheel, rosemary sprig, and cranberries.
Like nicknaming rocks and constellations, mixologists have a blast coming up with drink names. The Moscow Mule? Its name stems from the two main ingredients: vodka and ginger beer. Moscow for the Russian vodka of it all and mule for that ginger beer kick.
7 Variations and Substitutions
This riff on the Moscow mule has room to punch up flavors or swap some ingredients around to make the best cranberry version for you.
- Use cranberry-infused vodka and skip the cranberry juice if you want a higher ginger beer ratio.
- Try ginger-infused vodka for a spicier bite.
- Substitute lime juice for Pink Whitney.
- Try crushed ice to get a frosted mug.
- Use spiced rum for a richer taste.
- Try unsweetened cranberry juice for a tarter cocktail.
- Add a splash of cranberry liqueur for a stronger flavor.
Garnishes to Dress Things Up
Garnishes are an important part of every cocktail. Cocktail making isn't only about substance but presentation, too. Dress up your cranberry Moscow mule with these fun garnishes.
- Pierce three whole cranberries on a cocktail skewer.
- Add a rosemary sprig for a festive touch.
- Pop in a lime twist for a new look.
- Add a dehydrated lime wheel as an unexpected topper.
- Rim the mug in salt to add a coastal flair.
Our Favorite Twist on an Old Standard
The cranberry Moscow mule is a fabulous cocktail with a delicious combination of flavors. Easy to mix up in single servings or a huge punch bowl, the cranberry Moscow mule is a surefire way to amp up a beloved classic.
