I’ve always loved the Moscow Mule for its zingy ginger kick and the way it feels like a refreshment on a hot day. But in winter, I crave something with a bit more depth, a little festive flair. Cranberries have this perfect balance of tartness and jewel-like color that just screams holiday season.
So I started mixing up this cranberry twist, and suddenly, it’s the first thing I want to pour when friends come over or when I’m curled up with a good book. It’s a reminder that simple ingredients can make a moment feel special, even on the coldest nights.
Why This Cranberry Mule Keeps Calling Me Back
It’s the perfect balance of tart and spicy, with a fruity punch that feels both festive and familiar. Plus, it’s quick to make, which means I can enjoy that bright, shimmery glow of cranberry and lime any time I want a little celebration. It’s a drink that sparks joy and turns a simple evening into a holiday moment, no matter the season.
Breaking Down the Ingredients
- Vodka: A neutral base that lets the cranberry and lime shine without overpowering.
- Cranberry juice: Sweet yet tart, it adds that beautiful color and festive flavor—look for unsweetened or lightly sweetened.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed brightens everything, with a zing that cuts through the sweetness.
- Ginger beer: Gives the mule its signature spicy, bubbly kick—opt for a good quality, real ginger beer.
- Ice: Crushed or cubed, it chills quickly but melts fast, so have plenty on hand.
- Garnishes: Fresh cranberries and mint add visual pop and a hint of aroma.
Tools & Equipment for a Cranberry Moscow Mule
- Copper mug: Keeps the drink icy cold and looks festive.
- Cocktail jigger: Measures precise amounts of alcohol and juice.
- Bar spoon: Gently stirs and combines the ingredients.
- Citrus squeezer: Extracts fresh lime juice efficiently.
- Strainer: Optional, for smooth pouring if using freshly muddled cranberries or lime.
The Art of Crafting a Cranberry Moscow Mule
Step 1: Fill a copper mug with ice, almost to the brim.
Step 2: Pour 45 ml vodka over the ice—nothing fancy, just enough to carry the flavors.
Step 3: Add 30 ml fresh lime juice, bright and sharp, to cut through the sweetness.
Step 4: Stir gently to combine, then top with 60 ml cranberry juice—deep red and slightly tart.
Step 5: Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint for that festive look and extra aroma.
Cranberry Mule Cooking Checkpoints & Tips
- Ice should be crushed and cold to keep the drink chilled without watering it down.
- The lime juice should be freshly squeezed for that crisp, zesty punch.
- Cranberry juice needs to be slightly tart—not overly sweet—adjust to your taste.
- Garnishes should be vibrant and fresh, adding aroma and visual appeal.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
- Using bottled lime juice instead of fresh.? Use fresh lime juice; bottled can be flat and dull.
- Adding too much cranberry juice.? Don’t overdo the cranberry juice; it can overpower the drink.
- Using large ice cubes that don’t cool the drink quickly.? Ensure the ice is crushed evenly for an even chill.
- Over-stirring the cocktail.? Stir gently; vigorous stirring can dilute the flavors.
Cranberry Moscow Mule
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a copper mug generously with crushed or cubed ice, creating a cold base for your cocktail.
- Use a cocktail jigger to measure 45 ml of vodka, then pour it over the ice, feeling the chill as it hits the cold surface.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice using a citrus squeezer, extracting about 30 ml, then add it to the mug for a bright, zesty aroma.
- Pour 60 ml of cranberry juice into the mug, watching it swirl into the mixture, adding a deep red hue and tartness.
- Gently stir the mixture with a bar spoon, combining all the flavors smoothly and hearing a faint clink as the spoon moves through the ice.
- Top off the drink with ginger beer, about 60 ml, pouring it slowly to preserve the fizz and create a bubbly, spicy top layer.
- Garnish with a handful of fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint, arranging them on top for a festive and aromatic finishing touch.
- Give the drink a gentle stir to mix the garnishes into the drink, releasing their aroma and ensuring every sip is balanced and flavorful.
- Serve immediately, with the copper mug icy and sparkling, ready to enjoy the festive, tart, and spicy flavors.
Hi there! I’m Himani and welcome to Val’s Recipe Box. This little corner of the internet didn’t begin with me.
It began with Val my neighbourhood aunt whose kitchen held more warmth than any fireplace ever could.
This little corner of the internet didn’t begin with me.
It began with Val my neighbourhood aunt whose kitchen held more warmth than any fireplace ever could.
She was more of a friend and I’ve come to know her in the most unexpected way.
