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This festive Christmas Mule Cocktail is the perfect blend of holiday flavors and classic charm. With its vibrant cranberry touch, zesty lime, and warming ginger beer, it’s guaranteed to bring cheer to any gathering. I’ve made this for countless holiday parties and it’s always the first drink to run out.
I recall making this for a family Christmas Eve dinner last year. It paired beautifully with the holiday dishes and even my non-cocktail-loving relatives enjoyed it.
Ingredients
- Vodka: Adds the base spirit with a smooth taste. Use a good-quality vodka for the best flavor.
- Cranberry juice: Provides tangy, fruity notes. Look for 100 percent juice for a natural sweetness.
- Lime juice: Brings a bright citrusy kick. Freshly squeezed juice gives the best results.
- Ginger beer: Adds a spicy and bubbly finish. Choose a strong ginger beer for a bold flavor.
- Simple syrup: Optional for added sweetness. Great for balancing the tartness of the cranberry juice.
How To Make Christmas Mule Cocktail
- Fill the Mug:
- Fill your copper mug with ice cubes, ensuring it’s packed to keep your drink cold for longer.
- Add Vodka:
- Measure out two ounces of vodka using a jigger, pouring carefully over the ice.
- Incorporate Cranberry and Lime:
- Pour in cranberry juice, then squeeze half a lime over the mug, releasing its juice. Add these gently to preserve the layering.
- Stir Uniformly:
- Gently stir everything together with a bar spoon, ensuring the liquids combine evenly. Avoid over-stirring to maintain the effervescence.
- Top with Ginger Beer:
- Finish with three ounces of ginger beer, pouring slowly to preserve the fizziness. Adjust whether you use ginger ale or beer depending on your flavor preference.
- Garnish to Impress:
- For a festive touch, garnish with fresh cranberries, a rosemary sprig, and a lime wedge. For an extra holiday feel, you can even insert a cinnamon stick.
I love the cranberries and rosemary for garnish. They not only look lovely but also give a pop of fresh aroma and visual festiveness to the drink.
Storage Tips
If you’re prepping for a party, you can mix vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup ahead of time. Store this mixture in a chilled glass bottle, but add the ice and ginger beer only when serving to keep the drink lively.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with soda water and use a ginger beer variety that’s alcohol-free. Agave syrup can work in place of simple syrup if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cocktail with appetizers like smoked salmon crostini, cheese boards, or even holiday cookies. Its versatility allows it to complement savory or sweet dishes easily.
Cultural Context
The Moscow Mule is a classic cocktail known for being served in copper mugs. This holiday twist adds seasonal flavors, transforming it into a winter favorite perfect for Christmas celebrations.
This cocktail has truly become a family staple during Christmas. I remember last year crafting these for everyone and watching my cousins marvel at how refreshing and festive these tasted on a snowy evening. It’s a drink that brings people together and makes spirits bright.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ginger ale for ginger beer?
Yes, ginger ale is a great substitute if you prefer a sweeter, milder flavor compared to the sharper taste of ginger beer.
- → What is the best garnish for this drink?
The best garnishes include fresh cranberries, a lime wedge, rosemary sprigs, or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
- → Should I serve this cocktail in a copper mug?
While it's traditionally served in a copper mug to keep it cold and enhance its presentation, any glass will work fine.
- → Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Absolutely! Swap vodka for sparkling water or ginger ale, and you’ll still have a delicious festive drink.
- → What type of vodka works best for this cocktail?
A smooth, neutral vodka works best to complement the sweetness of the cranberry juice and the spice of the ginger beer.