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Festive Cranberry Moscow Mule in a Copper Mug with Fresh Cranberries and Mint Garnish

Cranberry Moscow Mule

Looking for a festive cocktail that’s as refreshing as it is delicious? This Cranberry Moscow Mule recipe combines tangy cranberry juice, zesty lime, and spicy ginger beer for a holiday drink everyone will love. Served in a classic copper mug and topped with fresh cranberries and mint, it’s perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights in. Whether you want tips for making it ahead, creative garnishes, or a mocktail version, this recipe has it all. Try it today and elevate your cocktail game!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Course Alcoholic Drink, Beverage, Cocktail, Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • Copper Mug or Glass: Traditional copper mugs enhance the flavor and keep the cocktail ice-cold, but a tall glass works as an alternative.
  • Measuring Tools: A jigger or measuring cups/spoons to accurately measure the vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
  • Cocktail Shaker or Mixing Glass: Optional, for mixing the vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice before pouring.
  • Bar Spoon: For stirring the ingredients gently to combine.
  • Citrus Juicer: A handheld juicer or reamer to extract fresh lime juice.
  • Ice Tray or Ice Scoop: For filling the mug or glass with ice cubes.
  • Cutting Board and Knife: To slice lime wedges and prepare garnishes like mint or cranberries.

Ingredients
  

For One Cocktail

  • 2 Oz Vodka
  • 2 Oz Cranberry juice
  • 1 Oz Freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 4 Oz Ginger beer
  • Ice
  • Fresh cranberries
  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh mint leaves

Optional Garnish Additions

  • Sugared cranberries (for an extra festive touch)
  • Cinnamon stick (for a cozy, aromatic flair)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Your Glassware
    Traditionally served in a copper mug, the Cranberry Moscow Mule stays delightfully cold, enhancing the drinking experience. If you don’t have a copper mug, a tall glass works too.
  • Fill with Ice
    Fill your copper mug or glass with ice cubes to the brim. This keeps your cocktail crisp and refreshing.
  • Mix the Base
    In a shaker or directly in your mug, combine:
    2 oz vodka
    2 oz cranberry juice
    1 oz lime juice
    Give it a gentle stir to mix the flavors.
  • Add the Fizz
    Pour 4 oz chilled ginger beer over the mixture. Ginger beer adds a spicy kick that balances the tart cranberry and lime flavors.
  • Garnish to Perfection
    Top your Cranberry Moscow Mule with festive garnishes:
    Fresh cranberries
    A lime wedge
    A sprig of mint for a pop of green
    For a holiday touch, add sugared cranberries or a cinnamon stick.
  • Serve and Enjoy!
    Serve immediately and sip through a straw or directly from the mug for a classic feel.

Notes

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead:

  • Mix the cranberry juice, vodka, and lime juice ahead of time and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, pour the premixed base over ice and top with ginger beer.

Storage:

  • Leftovers? While it's best to enjoy your Cranberry Moscow Mule fresh, you can store the premixed base (without ginger beer) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add ginger beer just before serving to maintain its fizz.
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