The classic Moscow mule cocktail is one that needs copper Moscow mule mugs. Right? Well, not really but honestly, it feels so good drinking in one! I think the first time I drank a mule cocktail was just so I could hold that copper mug. The Moscow mule was a cocktail invented as a marketing scheme in the 1940s by a marketing executive, John G Martin, for the purpose of increasing sales of Vodka, ginger beer, and copper mugs. Apparently, the film industry of Hollywood was fascinated with these copper mugs so much they often used them in their shots. Since then, everyone wanted to hold on to these mugs at pubs and parties.
Why make this recipe
This is the easiest drink you can make in less than 3 minutes. The best part is, it needs only main 3 ingredients and a garnish. While Moscow mule is served with crushed ice in a copper mug, it is not made in a cocktail shaker but directly in the mug itself. But, if you don’t have a Moscow mule mug, don’t let that stop you from having this absolutely delicious cocktail, go ahead and enjoy in a collins glass or highball glass.
Ingredients and substitutions
Vodka – I used Absolute Vodka but you can use your favorite brand such as Smirnoff vodka, Tito’s vodka, or Grey Goose. In fact, you can even use flavored vodka if you prefer. Ginger beer – There are many wonderful brands of ginger beer so pick any one you fancy. Find one without artificial flavors or sweeteners and with real ginger. And if you like a little spice, fry a spicy ginger beer. Ginger ale is not the same as ginger beer, but when you want a little twist to the classic Moscow mule try a spicy ginger ale. And if you’re looking for a good ginger beer, try Fever tree ginger beer, Mains hot and spicy ginger beer, or Reeds ginger brew. Lemon – Oh, please use fresh lemon juice with lemon slices or wedges for garnish. It makes a huge difference to the taste. Garnish – I am using a thyme today, but a sprig of mint works great. You can also try rosemary instead of fresh mint. You can use a muddler to crush the mint for a stronger mint flavor but I like to just leave it as a garnish.
Step-by-step: How to make the best Moscow mule
Add ice to a copper mug. Pour the vodka, lemon juice and top with ginger beer. And if you like it sweeter, add the simple syrup too. Use a stirrer or spoon and give it a gentle stir.Pro tip – You can also use a collins glass or highball glass. Garnish with lemon slices and a sprig of fresh mint. I prefer a sprig of thyme in mine, but you can also use rosemary for garnish. Cheers!
Moscow mule variations
Kentucky Mule – Use bourbon or whiskey instead or Vodka. Apple cider mule – Add some apple slices and a cinnamon stick in the fall. Or use apple vodka instead of regular vodka. Of course top with apple cider instead of ginger beer. Mexican Mule – Use tequila instead of vodka with spicy ginger ale. Gin Mule – Use gin with ginger ale. Cuban or Jamaican Mule – Is made with dark rum. Christmas mule in winter is perfect with pear vodka and ginger beer. Sweet mule – If you like sweet cocktails, add a splash of simple syrup to any of the mule recipes you make. Irish Mule – Use Irish whiskey instead of regular whisky.
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Frequently asked questions
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