It’s almost Christmas and I can practically hear the jingle bells in the distance. So, what’s a Christmas celebration without the perfect drink? If you’re still pondering over what delightful concoction to grace your dinner table or party with, besides Christmas Martini, may I suggest the enchanting Cranberry Moscow Mule?
Cranberry Moscow Mule Recipe
This cocktail is a delightful variation of the classic Moscow Mule, known for its refreshing and tangy flavor profile. This is a Moscow Mule with cranberry juice, adding a burst of tartness and a vibrant crimson hue to the drink.
Besides the obvious red hue that brings the festive spirit, Cranberry Moscow Mule is the ideal balance of flavors that makes it a crowd-pleaser. The ginger beer gives it that spicy warmth that complements the chilly winter nights, while the cranberry juice adds a refreshing twist that cuts through the richness of holiday feasts.
So, if you’re looking to elevate your Christmas celebration and make a toast to the season, look no further. Here is how to make Cranberry Moscow Mule at home – the holiday Moscow Mule:
Easy Cranberry Moscow Mule
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 4-6 oz ginger beer e.g., Fever Tree, Gosling's, and Blenheim Ginger Ale
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries and lime slices for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a copper mug (or your preferred glass) with ice cubes.
- Pour the vodka over the ice.
- Add the cranberry juice and fresh lime juice to the mug.
- Top off with ginger beer, and gently stir the ingredients together.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and a lime slice. Enjoy
Notes
- 1 oz apple cider (Cranberry Apple Moscow Mule)
- 1/2 oz orange liqueur (like triple sec) (Cranberry Orange Moscow Mule)
Moscow Mule Variations
The Moscow Mule is a classic cocktail that has gained widespread popularity since its creation in the 1940s. It’s a combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. Unlike other cocktails, Moscow Mule is uniquely presented in a copper mug. This has become the signature of the drink. The copper mug also helps to keep the drink colder for longer. The National Day of this cocktail with ginger beer is March 3rd.
Besides the traditional recipe, there’re many types of Moscow Mule, here are a few types of ginger beer cocktails you can try:
- Mexican Mule: This version is made by swapping the vodka for tequila, adding a splash of fresh lime juice and a slice of jalapeƱo for a spicy kick, and garnishing with a sprig of cilantro.
- Kentucky Mule: For this version, you need to replace vodka with bourbon or your favorite whiskey and mix in a touch of maple syrup for sweetness.
- Berry-Flavored Moscow Mule: With this one, you can mix and muddle different types of berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries) or separate each berry to make a specific type (like the Cranberry Moscow Mule above). Use a berry-flavored vodka or add a berry liqueur garnish with fresh berries.
- London Mule uses London dry gin instead of vodka. The gin brings its unique botanical notes to the cocktail, creating a sophisticated and herbal variation.
- Pineapple Express Mule includes the cocktail with the tropical goodness of pineapple juice and a splash of coconut water.
- Cucumber Moscow Mule: You can muddle cucumber slices and fresh mint at the bottom of the glass. Use a cucumber-infused vodka for an extra burst of flavor.
- Irish Mule: Instead of using vodka, use Irish whiskey. You can add a dash of honey syrup for sweetness.
- Tropical Mule: This variation is one of my favorites. It often has coconut vodka and mango or passion fruit juice.
- Skinny Moscow Mule: If you’re looking for a lighter option, the Skinny Moscow Mule reduces the calorie count without compromising on flavor.
- Watermelon Moscow Mule combines the classic elements with the summery goodness of watermelon, creating a delightful and cooling cocktail perfect for warm days.
- Peach Moscow Mule complements the ginger kick, offering a delightful combination that’s both flavorful and easy to sip.
- Pomegranate Moscow Mule is a balance of sweet and tangy.
- Caramel Apple Moscow Mule combines the warm, rich notes of caramel with the crisp freshness of apples, resulting in a cocktail that feels like a cozy embrace.
- Cherry Moscow Mule introduces a fruity depth to the classic cocktail with the sweet and slightly tart taste of cherries.
- Blood Orange Moscow Mule: For this version, you will embrace the citrusy goodness of blood oranges. The bold and tangy flavor of blood oranges pairs beautifully with the spiciness of ginger beer, creating a vibrant and flavorful cocktail.
- Ginger Apple Moscow Mule combines the crispness of apples with the bold kick of ginger.
- Grapefruit Moscow Mule brings a bright and tangy flavor to the mix, providing a refreshing option for those who enjoy a zesty kick in their cocktails.
- Frozen Moscow Mule takes the classic ingredients and blends them into a slushy, icy delight. It’s perfect for cooling down on hot summer days.
- Pumpkin Spice Moscow Mule incorporates the warm and aromatic notes of pumpkin spice, creating a seasonal twist on the classic cocktail.