New York: How do you make a Moscow Mule? If you’ve seen a shiny copper mug topped with mint and lime on your Instagram feed lately, you’re not alone. This icy, fizzy vodka-based cocktail is one of the most iconic—and easy-to-make—drinks around. But despite its fame, many don’t know what actually goes into a classic Moscow Mule recipe.
The good news? You don’t need to be a mixologist to make one. The Moscow Mule cocktail is incredibly simple—just three ingredients, a copper mug (optional but recommended), and a few minutes of prep time. It’s refreshing, slightly spicy, and perfect for summer happy hours, parties, or even a solo unwind-at-home moment.
This guide will walk you through exactly how to make a Moscow Mule drink at home—from the right ingredients and proportions to expert tips, common mistakes to avoid, and popular flavour twists like the Kentucky Mule or Mexican Mule.
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What Is a Moscow Mule Cocktail?
A Moscow Mule is a fizzy, zesty cocktail made with vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice, traditionally served in a chilled copper mug. Despite its name, the drink originated in the United States in the 1940s—not Russia—and helped popularize vodka in American bars.
It’s part of the “buck” cocktail family (a spirit + citrus + ginger beer or ale), often referred to as a mule drink due to its spicy kick from the ginger beer.
Classic Moscow Mule Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Ingredients (For 1 drink):
- 2 oz vodka
- ½ oz fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
- 4–6 oz ginger beer (not ginger ale)
- Ice cubes
Optional garnish: lime wedge and fresh mint
Tip: Use a good quality ginger beer like Fever-Tree, Q Mixers, or Bundaberg for bold, spicy flavour.
Instructions:
- Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
- Pour in vodka and lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer and gently stir to mix.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy cold.
Why Use a Copper Mug for a Moscow Mule?
Copper mugs aren’t just for the aesthetic—they keep the drink icy cold, which enhances the sharpness of the ginger and the freshness of the lime. The copper also reacts slightly with the ingredients, subtly improving the taste and presentation.
“The copper mug isn’t a gimmick,” says bartender Jamie Torres. “It’s part of the experience—the chill, the feel, the fizz. It’s like drinking summer in a cup.”
Moscow Mule Variations You’ll Love
Want to mix it up? Try one of these Mule drink variations:
- Kentucky Mule: Swap vodka for bourbon
- Mexican Mule: Use tequila instead of vodka
- London Mule: Try gin for a botanical kick
- Spicy Mule: Add muddled jalapeños or a dash of chili bitters
- Fruity Mule: Add muddled berries or mango with the lime juice
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t use ginger ale—it’s too sweet and lacks the spice of true ginger beer.
- Avoid bottled lime juice; always use fresh lime for best flavor.
- Don’t over-stir or shake—the drink should be lightly mixed, not flat.
