Moscow Mule
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A Moscow mule is the perfect cocktail when you want a drink that's cold as ever, has a refreshing citrus zip, and has a nice little spice to it. It's traditionally served in a copper mug, but if you don't have any in your cupboards, all it takes is a glass, 5 minutes, vodka, lime, and ginger beer!
There are lots of variations to the classic Moscow mule; try this Irish mule and rum mule!
If you've ever ordered a Moscow mule at a restaurant or bar, you'll know it's a refreshing and crisp cocktail. It's an honest-to-goodness game changer to make them at home! This Moscow mule recipe is quick and easy and your family, friends, or guests will feel like you've pulled out all the stops.
What is a Moscow mule?
The name is deceiving. The drink doesn't actually have a connection to Moscow or mules!
The Moscow mule originated in the US and in fact, any drink that has a combination of ginger ale or ginger beer, citrus, and one of the six primary types of hard liquor (also known as a base liquor) is called a mule.
A Moscow mule is a cocktail that's served in a copper mug and contains vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice. This is not the cocktail you reach for when you're after something fruity and sweet. Instead, this one is known for being refreshing and citrusy. It's delish!
What's in a Moscow mule?
This is a simple three-ingredient cocktail that's become a staple in North America and beyond. Let's break down the Moscow mule ingredients and what each one adds to the flavor profile.
- Vodka: the alcohol adds a bite to this drink, so you can choose a vodka that is smooth and neutral or has a more pronounced flavor depending on your taste. The lime juice and ginger beer will hide a lot of the vodka flavor, so if you're someone who prefers to taste the alcohol you're drinking, go for a vodka with a stronger bite.
- Lime juice: this ingredient is part of the one-two punch that gives the zing to this cocktail. It's best to use fresh limes to get that pronounced sour pop. Bottled lime juice or older limes just won't cut it. (Well, they will in a pinch, but fresh is best.)
- Ginger beer: Here comes the other punch! Ginger beer is often thought of as a specialty drink since it's not as widely available as ginger ale. But you can get ginger beer at most grocery stores. The difference between ginger ale and ginger beer is in the taste. It doesn't have anything to do with alcohol content, as both are usually alcohol-free. Ginger beer has a stronger, spicy ginger flavor than ginger ale, and that's why it's recommended for this recipe.
- Garnish: these are optional but do make the drink more fun! Some good options include ginger slices, lime wedges or a lime wheel, and mint.
- Copper Moscow mule mug: What's with the copper mug? Let's unpack this a little:
Why are Moscow mules served in a copper cup or mug?
So although the copper mug is not an ingredient used in the drink, they do come part and parcel with this beverage so it feels appropriate to include it here.
The reason it is served in a pure copper vessel is because copper doesn't need to be chilled before serving. Once you add ice and vodka, the copper cup will rapidly begin to cool. A pure copper cup or mug will keep the Moscow mule colder for a lot longer than a regular glass. This is why they became the perfect serving option for this delicious drink!
You can find a lot of different styles of Moscow mule mugs online, and most are reasonably priced.
How to make a Moscow mule at home
Ready for the easiest recipe ever? The Moscow mule takes just two steps to make before you're sip-sip-sipping away:
- Add vodka and fresh lime juice to an ice-filled glass. Top with ginger beer and give it a good stir.
- Garnish your drink to your liking and enjoy!
Told ya! It simply doesn't get any easier.
Recipe FAQs
Do you need to serve a Moscow mule in a copper cup?
You don't need to. Any glass, like a highball glass or collins glass, will do if you don't have copper cups at home. The copper cup or mug will keep the Moscow mule colder for longer, and that's why it's recommended.
Is a Moscow mule gluten-free?
Since ginger beer and pure, distilled vodka are considered gluten-free, the Moscow mule is a gluten-free cocktail.
Can I use another type of alcohol?
You can use other types of alcohol, however, you will be making another drink! For instance, if you choose to use tequila instead of vodka, you'll be making a Mexican mule. If you choose to use Irish whiskey instead of vodka, you'll be making an Irish mule.
Can a Moscow mule be made with ginger ale?
It can be made with ginger ale, however, using ginger beer will provide a zestier, spicy ginger flavor. If you only have ginger ale on hand, a whiskey ginger is another great option!
Moscow Mule Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce lime juice
- 4 ounces ginger beer
- Lime wedges, ginger slices, and mint (to serve)
Instructions
- Fill a glass with ice and then add the vodka and lime juice. Top with some ginger beer and then give your mule a quick stir.2 ounces vodka, 1 ounce lime juice, 4 ounces ginger beer
- Garnish with a few lime wedges, ginger slices, and mint and serve right away.Lime wedges, ginger slices, and mint
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here.
For more inspiration, check out all of our cocktail recipes!
