This recipe for an Extra-Ginger Moscow Mule is refreshing and perfect for any time of year! It's a simple cocktail full of bubbly ginger beer, fresh ginger slices, tangy lime juice, and vodka. Serve in a brass mule mug and garnish with fresh & candied ginger slices for the ultimate ginger-lovers drink!
What's ingredients are in a Moscow Mule?
- Vodka
- Spicy ginger Beer
- Lime Juice
To make this an "extra-ginger" cocktail, we're also infusing it with grated ginger, ginger slices, and garnishing with candied ginger. I also enjoy muddling with mint, but this is technically optional.
What kind of ginger beer should I use in a cocktail?
This is a matter of personal preference, as many brands vary widely in terms of spice and sweetness levels. Although it can be hard to find, the best ginger beer for cocktails is Reed's Strongest Ginger Beer (with a purple label). I avoid sugar-free varieties (they have a strange aftertaste).
In this recipe I used Trader Joe's (it's what I had on hand). To be honest I would not buy this particular brand, but it is a convenient option if you are unable to find Reeds.
Can kids drink ginger beer?
Yes, kids can drink most ginger beer as it is nonalcoholic. While you can purchase alcoholic varieties, most of what you will find in the store is 0 proof. However, ginger beer has a fairly strong taste that may not appeal to kids. If this is the case for you, feel free to substitute ginger beer for ginger ale in this recipe (while of course leaving out the vodka for a true "mocktail").
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Origins of the Moscow Mule and it's Copper Mugs
When was the Moscow Mule invented?
One common story states that bartender Wes Price invented this drink to clear the bar's cellar. At the time it was full with unsold inventory, including vodka and ginger beer. This bar was New York's Chatham Hotel, located in "Little Moscow."
You may be wondering why mules are always seen in copper mugs. Interestingly, there are a conflicting reasons for the origin of their use upon the cocktail's invention. Some state that the mugs were part of a larger marketing ploy by Smirnoff vodka to distinguish the cocktail in photographs. Regardless, we can continue enjoying mules in copper mugs today because they are remarkably efficient at keeping your drink cold.
Do you have to use copper mugs for Moscow mules?
Nope, copper mugs are not necessary for enjoying this cocktail. Any highball or medium sized glass will work well.
I hope you enjoy this extra-ginger Moscow Mule recipe! Please leave a rating and a comment if you try it, and be sure to let me know if you customize it further. While some people may view this Mule as a summer beverage, I really think it can be enjoyed all year round.
If you're looking for more simple cocktail recipes, try one of these posts next:
- Classic Hot Toddy
- Sparkling Gin Cranberry
- How To Make Mimosas
- 17 of the Best Margaritas
- The Garden Party Cocktail
Extra-Ginger Moscow Mule
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka ¼ cup*
- 10 mint leaves
- 5 slices of fresh ginger in coin shapes
- 1 TBS grated ginger
- 1 TBS lime juice
- Ginger beer for topping
- Mint limes, and candied ginger to garnish
Instructions
- To begin, add vodka, mint, ginger coin slices, and grated ginger to a large shaker. Using a muddler or fork, mash to bruise the mint and release some ginger flavor. Top with 1 cup ice and shake for 30 seconds, until cold.
- Strain into a chilled mule mug. Add lime juice and some ice cubes, if desired. Top with ginger beer, filling top the rim.
- Garnish with mint sprigs, a lime round, and a slice of candied ginger. Enjoy immediately.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
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Susan says
I love the extra ginger in this, yum!
Jeff Jantos says
Argh!!!!! Copper mugs DO NOT keep your drink cold. They keep your hand cold because copper is a super efficient conductor of heat. So the mug is quickly transferring cold from the drink to your hand. Which means it's also quickly transferring the heat of your hand to the drink. AKA, melting the ice and watering it down.
Emily says
Hi Jeff! I recommend finding a mug with a handle so that the heat of your hand is not touching the drink. The great thing is, you don't need to use a copper mug to enjoy this. Thanks for reading 🙂
Harriet Ross says
Just like mother made! Sweet memories.
Emily says
Thanks so much Harriet, I am happy to hear that!