Cranberry Moscow Mule Recipe: A Festive Twist on a Classic Cocktail

This cocktail called the Moscow Mule started back in the 1940s and it quickly found its way into bars and homes. Made with vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice, its taste is zesty and the copper mug makes it look cool. Over time people was experimenting and made alot of versions to fit every season and taste.

One of the most fun twists is the cranberry Moscow Mule thats perfect for colder months. The tart cranberry juice adds a festive twist and it goes great with the spicy ginger beer. This drink not only brightens up a party but also brings a holiday feeling to your glass. The mix of flavors makes it both refreshing and satisfying so its a hit at family gatherings or cozy nights in.

In a world where cool drinks are a must, the cranberry Mule appeals to anyone wanting something to quench their thirst and give a unique flavor. Its bright color and fresh taste make it a good pick for cocktail fans or for people who never tried mixed drinks before. Let’s take a closer look at the history and ingredents of this festive cocktail, and learn how to make the perfect cranberry Moscow Mule in your own kitchen.

History of the Moscow Mule

The Moscow Mule first appeared in the United States in the early 1940s when vodka was becoming more populair. The story goes that John Martin, who worked for a spirits company, wanted to sell more vodka, Jack Morgan at the Cock ’n’ Bull restaurant had ginger beer to peddle, and a lady named Sophie had all these copper mugs she couldn’t use. So they combined vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice in those mugs and bam—the Moscow Mule was born.

As time went on, people started to mix up the recipe, adding new flavors and garnishes. This led to many versions of the original, including the cranberry Moscow Mule which shows off the tang of cranberries and feels extra festive.

The rise of craft cocktails helped keep the Mule alive and well. What started as just three ingredients is now a canvas for creativity. Bartenders and home mixologists everywhere love putting their own spin on it, using local fruits or seasonal herbs. That’s why versions like the cranberry Mule are so popular—they blend tradition with fresh ideas.

Key Ingredients for a Cranberry Moscow Mule

To make a great cranberry Mule you need good ingredents that bring out the best taste and look. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• Fresh Ingredients
  • Cranberry juice: Pick unsweetened or lightly sweetened juice so it stays tart. Ocean Spray or R.W. Knudsen work well.
  • Lime juice: Always squeeze real limes for that bright tang—bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
• Alcoholic Base
  • Vodka: A smooth vodka like Tito’s or Grey Goose keeps the flavor clean and crisp.
• Garnishes
  • Mint leaves: Adds a fresh smell and taste.
  • Fresh cranberries: Makes it look extra festive.
  • Lime wedges: More citrus to squeeze if you want.
• Moscow Mule Mug
  • A copper mug is key for keeping the drink icy cold and looking nice.

Key Ingredients for a Cranberry Moscow Mule

To make a great cranberry Mule you need good ingredents that bring out the best taste and look. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• Fresh Ingredients
  • Cranberry juice: Pick unsweetened or lightly sweetened juice so it stays tart. Ocean Spray or R.W. Knudsen work well.
  • Lime juice: Always squeeze real limes for that bright tang—bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
• Alcoholic Base
  • Vodka: A smooth vodka like Tito’s or Grey Goose keeps the flavor clean and crisp.
• Garnishes
  • Mint leaves: Adds a fresh smell and taste.
  • Fresh cranberries: Makes it look extra festive.
  • Lime wedges: More citrus to squeeze if you want.
• Moscow Mule Mug
  • A copper mug is key for keeping the drink icy cold and looking nice.

Detailed Cranberry Moscow Mule Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 4 oz cranberry juice
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• Ginger beer (to top off)
• Optional garnishes: lime wedges, fresh cranberries, mint leaves

Directions

1. Chill your copper mug first so it stays cold.
2. In a shaker, mix vodka, cranberry juice and lime juice.
3. Fill the mug with ice and strain the mix into it.
4. Top with ginger beer and stir gentle so it dont lose fizz.
5. Garnish with lime wedges, cranberries and mint leaves.

Expert Advice

Always taste your cranberry juice before you start so you know if it needs more sweetening. If it’s too tart, add a bit of simple syrup. For a party you can double or triple the recipe and serve from a pitcher so everyones happy.

If you wanna get fancy, try a flavored vodka like vanilla or cranberry-infused. A pinch of cinnamon or extra ginger can add a warm spice that’s really nice.

For special diets, use sugar-free cranberry juice and gluten-free vodka. Just check the labels so you know what’s in your drink.

Variations on the Cranberry Moscow Mule

Frozen Cranberry Moscow Mule

Blend all ingredents with ice for a frozen version thats perfect on a hot day. Its like a slushy but with that zesty Mule flavor.

Spicy Cranberry Mule

If you like heat, add sliced jalapeños or chili-infused vodka. This chili kick pairs well with the tangy cranberry.

Herbal Infusions

Muddle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme at the bottom of the mug for an extra fragrant twist that smells amazing.

Pairing Suggestions

This cranberry Mule goes great with smoked salmon, cheese boards, or spicy shrimp tacos. For main courses try grilled chicken or ham—the sweetness and tartness balance nice. It’s perfect for holidays, summer parties or just chilling at home.

Nutritional Information

A regular cranberry Moscow Mule has about 200–250 calories depending on your ingredents. To cut calories use sugar-free cranberry juice and a light ginger beer. You can still enjoy the bright flavors without the extra calories.

FAQs

• What alcohol is typically used in a Moscow Mule? The classic uses vodka but you can try other spirits if you want.
• Can I make a non-alcoholic version? Yes, just replace vodka with extra cranberry juice or sparkling water for a mocktail.
• What can I substitute for ginger beer? Ginger ale works too but it’s sweeter and less spicy.
• How do I store leftover cranberry juice? Put it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week.
• Can I prepare this cocktail in advance? You can mix the juices and vodka ahead of time and keep in the fridge. Add the ginger beer just before serving so it stay bubbly.

Conclusion

The cranberry Moscow Mule brings a burst of fresh flavor and a festive vibe to any occasion. With its bright color and nice balance of tart and sweet, it’s a must-try cocktail that’s easy to whip up at home.

Call to Action

We’d love to hear how your cranberry Mule turned out! Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us on social media to show off your own versions of this fun drink.

cranberry moscow mule recipe

This festive twist on the classic Moscow Mule incorporates cranberry juice, adding a tart and refreshing flavor that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or celebrations. It's served in a traditional copper mug, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Cocktail

Cuisine American

Servings 4 People

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• 4 Copper mugs
• 1 Jigger or measuring cup
• 1 Stirring spoon
• 1 Ice cube tray

Ingredients

  

• 4 ounces vodka
• 12 ounces cranberry juice Unsweetened or lightly sweetened.
• 8 ounces ginger beer
• 1 ounce fresh lime juice About 1 lime.
• to garnish fresh cranberries
• to garnish lime wedges
• as needed ice cubes

Instructions

 

• Start by preparing your copper mugs. Fill each mug with ice cubes to chill.
• In a large jug or pitcher, combine the vodka, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice. Stir well to mix.
• Pour the mixture evenly into the four copper mugs filled with ice.
• Top each mug with ginger beer, approximately 2 ounces per mug.
• Stir gently to combine the ingredients in each mug.
• Garnish each drink with fresh cranberries and a lime wedge on the rim of the mug.
• Serve immediately and enjoy responsibly!

Notes

For a sweeter drink, you can use sweetened cranberry juice or add a splash of simple syrup to taste.

You can adjust the ratio of cranberry juice and ginger beer based on your personal preference—more cranberry for tartness or more ginger beer for spiciness.

This recipe can easily be multiplied for larger gatherings. Just maintain the same ratios for each ingredient.