Moscow Mule
Easy
Spicy & Fresh
2 Minutes
Mule Mug
Ingredients
The Moscow Mule is an easy-to-make cocktail that goes way beyond its three ingredients. In other words, the sum is greater than the individual parts you could say.
A blend of Vodka, Ginger Beer, and Lime and served in an iconic Copper Mug or Steel Mug, the Moscow Mule is as much about style as it is about flavor. The cold yet fiery sensation of the Ginger Beer is perfectly complemented by the bite of fresh Lime creating a deliciously zesty cocktail.
Great for any occasion, from relaxed evenings at home to lively gatherings with friends, its fresh citrus flavors are perfect for hot summer days, while the warm, spicy hints from the Ginger Beer make it just as appealing during the colder months.
Ready to mix? Let’s go!
How To Make a moscow mule Cocktail
Bar tools you’ll need
Jigger
Knife
Citrus Press
How to Mix
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Fill a chilled Stainless Steel Mug or Copper Mule Mug with ice cubes.
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Use a Paring Knife to cut a Lime in half, save a Lime Wedge for garnishing later.
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Use a Citrus Press to juice the Lime.
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Measure and pour Lime Juice into the Mug.
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Measure and pour Absolut Vodka into the Mug.
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Top up with Ginger Beer.
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Garnish with a Lime Wedge.
Watch bartender Rico make the perfect Moscow Mule
The History of the Moscow Mule
Despite its name, this cocktail has nothing to do with the Russian capital. In fact, the origin of this cocktail has nothing to do with Russia at all.
Legend has it that the cocktail was born in the 1940s in Los Angeles, when a bartender, a Vodka distributor, and a struggling Ginger Beer maker joined forces to revolutionize the drinking scene.
The trio’s genius marketing idea of serving this cocktail in a distinct Copper Mug quickly propelled the cocktail to fame.
Tips for Making the Perfect Moscow Mule Cocktail
- Substitute Ginger Ale
You can replace Ginger Beer with Ginger Ale if you prefer. Ginger Ale is similar to a Ginger-flavored Soda whereas Ginger Beer is more intense, spicier and is carbonated via fermentation. Ginger Ale has a sweeter yet more intense flavor. The choice is yours! - Reduce the Sugar
To make a low-sugar version, choose a Ginger Beer or Ginger Ale that’s low sugar or sugar-free. Most supermarkets sell low-sugar varieties of these popular mixers, so you should be able to find a low-sugar variant without any problems. - Chill your mugs in advance
Place your mugs in the refrigerator 10 minutes before mixing your cocktails.
Variations of a Moscow Mule
- Raspberry Mule
If you’re partial to a Mule, then you’ve got to try the Raspberry Mule, which uses Absolut Raspberri instead of Absolut Original Vodka. The combo of Ginger, Raspberry and Lime is sure to take your tastebuds to new heights!
- Fiery Mule
Want to turn up the heat? Accentuate the spiciness of the Ginger by using Absolut Peppar instead of Absolut Original Vodka and create an Absolut Fiery Mule! - Moscow Mule Mocktail
Want to make an alcohol-free version (aka Moscow Mule Mocktail)? Simply leave out the alcohol. However, note that since Ginger Beer is brewed, it may contain low amounts of alcohol (e.g., 0.5% ABV), make sure you use a Ginger Beer that is alcohol-free.
Serving and Garnish Ideas for a Moscow Mule Cocktail
This cocktail has to be served in a Copper Mug. And that’s a tradition that we personally like to follow. But the truth is, a Rocks Glass will work just as well.
Garnish with a fresh Lime Wedge to complement the cocktail’s zesty flavor. Squeeze the Lime over the ice to release its tangy essence before dropping it into the glass, allowing the citrusy aroma to enhance the refreshing blend of Vodka and Ginger Beer.
Tip! Let whoever’s drinking the cocktail adjust the acidity levels to their liking by pressing a ¼ to ½ medium sized Lime into their cocktail.
Tip! Garnish the alcohol-free variant differently from the alcoholic version to distinguish between the two. For example, you could use a Lemon Wheel instead of the Lime Wedge.
Moscow Mule FAQ
No one knows where it was invented for sure, but it’s almost with certainty that we know it was not in Russia. Rumor has it that it was invented in New York in 1941. Other rumors suggest that it was invented in Hollywood.
The only real link to Russia is that it includes Vodka. But even the origin of Vodka is unclear. Was Vodka invented in Poland or Russia? In any case, we prefer using Swedish Vodka. An Åhus Mule, anyone?
So then why is a Moscow Mule called a Moscow Mule if it’s not Russian? Although there are several theories, no one knows quite how the cocktail got its name.
You can find Ginger Beer and Ginger Ale in your favorite liquor store or supermarket.
You’ve probably seen someone order a Moscow Mule in the bar, glanced down at your own cocktail and whispered gently to the bartender: “Why isn’t mine served in a nice shiny mug?” No? Ok, then it’s just us.
It’s traditionally served in a Copper Mug. But why it is served in a Copper Mug is not just about tradition; the Copper Mug plays an important role in maintaining the chill of the Ginger Beer, ensuring that the cocktail stays cool and won’t be affected by the temperature of your hand.
It also looks impressive and will make everyone else jealous of your impeccable taste in cocktails!
The truth be told though, it wouldn’t be the end of the world if you served this cocktail in another metal mug or a normal Rocks Glass. It would still be a great cocktail.
No. While Copper Mugs are super easy to clean by rinsing them with warm, soapy water and drying them immediately after use, Copper Mugs are not dishwasher safe.
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