Moscow Mule

Easy Moscow Mule recipe made with ginger beer and vodka and often served in a copper mug. A delightful cocktail that can be enjoyed any time of the year.

this Recipe

A Moscow Mule is a cocktail that can and should be enjoyed year-round. It isn’t a seasonal drink like eggnog or a Tequila Sunrise. The refreshing Moscow Mule is a favorite among vodka fans, requires just 3 ingredients, and takes just minutes to make.

What Is A Moscow Mule?

A Moscow Mule is a fizzy drink made from vodka, ginger beer, and lime. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy any time of the year.

This classic cocktail has been around since the 1940s and is believed to have been created by John Martin, the owner of Smirnoff, and Jack Morgan, the owner of the Cock ‘n Bull tavern in Hollywood.

The Moscow Mule is a part of a family of cocktails often referred to as a “buck”. The buck is a style of cocktail with a spirit like vodka, citrus, and ginger beer or ginger ale. So, this drink could be called a vodka buck!

Why This Recipe Works

• Easy to make: This classic vodka cocktail is a snap to make. You don’t need any special tools because the drink is built right in the mug or glass.
• No mug required: Although a copper mug is always preferred for serving, it isn’t necessary and should not deter you from making a Moscow Mule. The drink tastes great no matter what it’s served in.

Ingredients

Here’s what is in a Moscow Mule:

See below for ways to use leftover ingredients.

• Vodka: The best vodka to use in a Moscow Mule is the vodka you enjoy drinking. I prefer using Tito’s brand vodka because it is affordable, high quality, and made in Texas where I lived for many years.
• Ginger beer: My favorite ginger beer is Fever-Tree brand. It has a strong ginger flavor which is so important when making a Moscow Mule. While the name suggests that this beverage has alcohol in it, ginger beer is actually a non-alcoholic drink. You can find ginger beer near the soda water and tonic water in your local grocery store. It may also be found in the soft drink section.
• Lime juice: Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the very best flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Mexican Mule: a Moscow Mule made with tequila instead of vodka.
• Irish Mule: A Moscow Mule made with Irish whiskey instead of vodka.
• Kentucky Mule: A Moscow Mule made with bourbon.
• Gin Buck: Also called a Gin Gin Mule which is a Moscow Mule made with gin instead of vodka.
• Dark ‘n Stormy: Usually made in a highball glass and dark rum is used instead of vodka.
• Mezcal Mule: Use tequila and mezcal for a smoky twist.

How To Make A Moscow Mule

See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.

1. Fill a Moscow Mule mug or a highball glass with ice. Pour in the vodka and lime juice.
2. Fill the glass with ginger beer and gently stir it with a spoon to mix.
3. Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of fresh mint, and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• The best vodka for a Moscow Mule is a mid-priced vodka. There is no need to purchase an expensive brand because a Moscow Mule’s ginger beer and lime flavors are robust and can overpower an excellent vodka.
• The best ginger beer for a Moscow Mule is one that is made with real ginger, and without artificial sweeteners or flavors. My favorite brand of ginger beer is Fever-Tree.
• Fresh lime juice is preferred and it does make a difference in this recipe. Simply squeeze the juice from half a lime (or to taste)

When To Serve A Moscow Mule

A Moscow Mule is perfect for sipping any time of the year. It can be a cool refresher on a hot summer day, or because of the spicy bite from the ginger beer, it can be the perfect cocktail to enjoy during the holidays or winter months.

Frequently Asked Questions