The most popular "holiday mule cocktail," also known as a Christmas Moscow Mule or Yule Mule, is a festive variation of the classic drink featuring cranberry juice and seasonal garnishes. It offers a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors.
Classic Holiday Mule Recipe
This recipe makes one cocktail and uses a traditional Moscow Mule copper mug, which helps keep the drink cold.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 2 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened for a tarter flavor, or cranberry juice cocktail for sweeter)
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- 4-6 oz ginger beer
- Ice cubes
- Garnish: Fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig (mimics a pine branch)
Instructions:
- Fill a copper mug or glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice.
- Top the mixture with ginger beer and gently stir to combine the ingredients.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary and a few frozen or fresh cranberries before serving.
Variations and Tips
- Make it a Mocktail: Simply omit the vodka for a delicious non-alcoholic drink that still has a festive kick from the ginger beer.
- Add Spice: Incorporate a few drops of bitters or a splash of ginger liqueur for a deeper flavor profile.
- Alternative Spirits: While vodka is traditional, gin can also be used for an herbal twist that pairs well with the holiday spices.
- Batch for Parties: Mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice in a pitcher ahead of time. When ready to serve, guests can pour the mixture over ice in individual mugs and top with fresh, cold ginger beer to maintain fizz.
- Garnish Options: Other festive garnishes include a cinnamon stick, orange slices, or candy canes.
