A Moscow mule with cranberries is a little escape, a crisp burst of seasonal flavor that brightens up any gathering. I love how the tartness of the cranberries balances the spicy ginger and smooth vodka, making each sip feel just right. It’s a drink that feels both familiar and a little unexpected, perfect for any winter evening or festive toast.
The best part? It’s simple to whip up in just minutes, using ingredients I usually have on hand. No fuss, no fussiness, just a punch of flavor that makes you want to pour another.
Why I Keep Coming Back to This Cranberry Mule
It’s a clean, festive hit of flavor that feels like a holiday in a glass. The tart cranberries make it feel special, even if I’m just unwinding solo after a long day. The balance of spice and citrus refreshes me, no matter the season, and it’s just so quick to make that I never hesitate.
What’s in Your Cranberry Mule and Why
- Fresh cranberries: They add a vibrant color and a tart punch that balances the spicy ginger beer.
- Vodka: Pure and clean, it forms the backbone. Use a decent quality for smoother sips.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed brightens everything up, with a zesty, citrusy pop.
- Ginger beer: Spicy, slightly sweet, and effervescent, it’s the soul of a mule.
- Ice: Chilled to keep the drink cold without watering it down, crisp and clear.
- Mint or lime wedge: A fragrant garnish that elevates the aroma and presentation.
Tools & Equipment for a Cranberry Moscow Mule
- Copper mug: Keeps the drink icy cold and adds a traditional touch.
- Bar spoon: Stirs the drink gently to mix and chill.
- Measuring jigger: Measures precise amounts of vodka and lime juice.
- Citrus squeezer: Extracts fresh lime juice efficiently.
- Ice bucket or tray: Keeps ice ready for use.
Step-by-step to the perfect cranberry mule
Step 1: Start by chilling your copper mug in the freezer for about 10 minutes. It keeps the drink icy and enhances the metallic tingle.
Step 2: Fill the mug with ice, about three-quarters full. You want enough to keep the drink cold but not overflow.
Step 3: Pour in 50ml of vodka — don’t skimp here, it’s the backbone of your mule.
Step 4: Add 30ml of fresh lime juice, a good squeeze, to brighten everything up.
Step 5: Stir gently with a bar spoon or straw to combine the ingredients and chill uniformly.
Step 6: Top with about 100ml of ginger beer, pouring slowly so it doesn’t fizz over.
Step 7: Drop in a handful of fresh cranberries for garnish and a little tang.
Step 8: Finish with a sprig of fresh mint or a lime wedge for that extra pop of aroma.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
Equipment
- Copper mug
- Bar spoon
- Measuring jigger
- Citrus squeezer
- Ice bucket or tray
Ingredients
- 3 ounces ginger beer chilled
- 1.5 ounces vodka good quality
- 0.75 ounces fresh lime juice about 1 lime
- handful fresh cranberries for garnish
- 1 sprig fresh mint for garnish
- ice ice enough to fill the mug
Instructions
- Chill your copper mug in the freezer for about 10 minutes to keep the drink icy and enhance its metallic coolness.
- Fill the chilled mug about three-quarters full with ice, creating a frosty base that keeps the drink refreshingly cold.
- Pour in 1.5 ounces of smooth vodka over the ice, letting it gently cascade into the mug for a clear, sharp foundation.
- Squeeze about 0.75 ounces of fresh lime juice into the mug using a citrus squeezer, adding a bright, zesty aroma and flavor.
- Stir the mixture gently with a bar spoon, allowing the flavors to blend and the drink to chill evenly, listening for a soft bubbling sound.
- Slowly pour about 3 ounces of chilled ginger beer into the mug, letting it fizz up and fill the space with spicy effervescence.
- Drop a handful of fresh cranberries into the drink for a burst of tartness and a vibrant pop of color.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lime wedge on the rim for a fragrant, colorful finishing touch that invites you to take a sip.
- Serve immediately, enjoying the crisp, bubbly sensation of this festive cranberry mule, perfect for holiday cheer or relaxing winter evenings.
Notes
Cranberry Mule: Key Checks to Nail It
- Ensure the ginger beer is well chilled to avoid diluting the drink too quickly.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and mint right before serving for maximum freshness and aroma.
- Adjust the lime juice to taste; it should brighten without overpowering the cranberry’s sweetness.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
- Over-filling with ginger beer, making it too sweet and fizzy.? USE too much ginger beer → Reduce to avoid overpowering the cranberry flavor.
- Starting with a warm mug, which dulls the chilling effect.? FORGET to chill mug → Chill the mug beforehand for an extra refreshing experience.
- Adding too much lime, which can make the drink overly tart.? OVERDO the lime juice → Add gradually, tasting for that perfect bright punch.
- Using dried cranberries, which lack the juice and brightness.? Skip fresh cranberries → Use frozen if fresh are unavailable for the same vibrant color and flavor.
This cocktail is a wild card, perfect for a holiday gathering or a solo night with a good playlist. The tart cranberry flavor cuts through the spicy ginger beer, making it lively and refreshing. Feel free to tweak the sweetness or tartness by adjusting the cranberry or lime, depending on your mood and what’s in your fridge. Pouring it all into a chilled mug makes every sip feel like a small celebration.
