The Cranberry Moscow Mule isn’t just a seasonal variation; it’s a reminder that simple ingredients can create something unexpectedly lively. The tart cranberry adds a festive touch that makes the classic mule feel new again. It’s a drink that sparks nostalgia and curiosity all at once.

Why I Keep Making This Cocktail

It’s the easiest way to bring a festive, tangy sparkle to any night. The combination of tart cranberries and spicy ginger is unexpectedly addictive. Plus, it’s a little bit nostalgic—reminds me of holiday mornings and cozy gatherings, even if it’s midweek. Every sip feels like a tiny celebration.

Behind the Flavors: Cranberry & Ginger

Cranberry Juice: Gives the mule a tart, festive kick; opt for unsweetened for balance.

Ginger Beer: Fizzy and spicy, it’s the backbone of the mule’s zing, with a smoky undertone.
Lime: Adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness, a fresh zesty punch.

Vodka: The neutral spirit that carries the flavors, so don’t skimp on quality.
Fresh Cranberries & Mint: Gives a pop of color and aroma, making each sip feel special.

Ice: Frosts the mug and keeps the drink refreshingly cold, essential for that crisp sip.
Simple Syrup (optional): Sweetens if the cranberry juice is too tart, but keep it light.

Tools & Equipment for a Perfect Cranberry Mule

Copper Mug: Keeps the drink icy cold and adds an authentic look.
Jigger or Measuring Shot Glass: Precisely measures vodka and cranberry juice.
Lime Squeezer: Easily extracts fresh lime juice.
Long Spoon or Stirrer: Gently mixes the ingredients without losing carbonation.

Strainer (optional): Helps pour without cranberry seeds or pulp.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting a Cranberry Moscow Mule

Step 1: Start by chilling your copper mug in the freezer for about 10 minutes. The cold mug makes every sip more refreshing.

Step 2: Fill the mug with ice—crushed or cubed, whatever you prefer. It’s all about that frosty jolt.

Step 3: Pour in 45 ml (1.5 oz) of vodka—no need to skimp here, but don’t drown the mug.

Step 4: Add 60 ml (2 oz) of cranberry juice, ideally unsweetened or lightly sweetened for a tart punch.

Step 5: Squeeze in the juice of half a lime, then drop the wedge into the mug. It’s the bright, zesty kick that ties everything together.

Step 6: Top with ginger beer—about 120 ml (4 oz)—and give it a gentle stir. Watch the bubbles rise and burst—like tiny fireworks.

Step 7: Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint for a burst of color and aroma.

Step 8: Taste and adjust: if it’s too tart, a splash of simple syrup will mellow the cranberry sharpness.

Step 9: Serve immediately, enjoy the crisp, tangy burst of flavors with each sip.

Cranberry Moscow Mule

The Cranberry Moscow Mule is a festive cocktail that combines tart cranberry juice with spicy ginger beer, served in a chilled copper mug for a crisp, refreshing experience. This drink features a lively fizz and vibrant garnishes, making it visually appealing and full of flavor. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a tangy, sparkling beverage.

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Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings: 1

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Cocktail

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

1 cup Ice crushed or cubed
1.5 oz vodka good quality
2 oz cranberry juice unsweetened or lightly sweetened
0.5 piece lime for fresh juice
4 oz ginger beer fizzy and spicy
handful fresh cranberries for garnish
1 sprig mint for garnish

Equipment

Copper Mug
Jigger or Measuring Shot Glass
Lime Squeezer
Long Spoon or Stirrer
Strainer (optional)

Method

Chill your copper mug in the freezer for about 10 minutes to keep the drink icy cold.
Fill the mug generously with ice, creating a frosty base for the cocktail.
Pour in 1.5 ounces of vodka, ensuring a smooth, neutral foundation for the flavors.

Add 2 ounces of cranberry juice, giving the drink a tart, festive hue.
Squeeze the juice of half a lime into the mug, then drop the wedge in to infuse brightness and zesty aroma.
Top off the drink with about 4 ounces of ginger beer, watching the bubbles fizz and rise, creating a lively sparkle.

Gently stir the mixture with a long spoon or stirrer, blending the flavors without losing the carbonation.
Garnish with a handful of fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint for a colorful, aromatic finishing touch.
Taste the drink and, if desired, add a splash of simple syrup to mellow the tartness.

Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, tangy sparkle of your Cranberry Moscow Mule.

Cranberry Moscow Mule: Cooking Checkpoints & Tips

Ensure your ginger beer is well chilled before mixing.
The lime juice should be fresh for that bright, vibrant flavor.
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less cranberry juice or syrup.
Watch the ginger beer to prevent over-foaming when pouring.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

Pouring warm ingredients that melt the ice too quickly.? USE PRE-CHILLED INGREDIENTS to keep the drink cold longer.
Pouring all ingredients at once causing loss of carbonation.? ADD GINGER BEER LAST to maintain fizz and prevent flatness.
Adding garnishes too early, which wilts or sinks.? GARNISH AFTER mixing to prevent soggy herbs or berries.

Using too much lime juice, overpowering the drink.? Avoid over-squeezing the lime to prevent bitterness.

This cocktail feels like a celebration in a glass, perfect for winter gatherings or cozy nights. The tartness of the cranberry paired with the zing of ginger and lime awakens the senses. Feel free to tweak the sweetness or add a dash of bitters for complexity. Pour yourself a glass and enjoy the simple pleasure of a well-made mule.

Mayank

I’m Mayank, the creator, cook, and writer behind this blog. FeastChase is not just a collection of recipes — it’s a journey through tastes, memories, and moments that bring people together at the table.