A fun spin on the traditional mule, this Apple Cider Moscow Mule cocktail is made with crisp apple cider, sweet ginger beer, and your choice of gin or vodka.
At the end of a long day, it’s nice to relax with a refreshing cocktail. A classic Moscow Mule includes vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer. But as the seasons starts to turn, I put a delicious, fall twist on the traditional cocktail with my Apple Cider Moscow Mules.
Ingredients
- Fresh mint: Crisp, bright, and slightly sweet, mint complements the apple and ginger nicely.
- Gin or vodka: This recipe works great with either, as both are citrusy and spicy alcohols, although gin is going to be slightly sweeter.
- Apple cider: The perfect blend of sweet apples with warm spices.
- Ginger beer: The slight kick and citrusy undertones of the ginger pair perfectly with the rest of this cocktail.
How to Make Apple Cider Moscow Mules
One of my favorite things about this cocktail is how easy it is to make. Start by placing mint sprigs and lime in a large cocktail shaker or pitcher, then muddle with the back of a wooden spoon or muddler.
Next pour in the apple cider.
Followed by the vodka, then stir well.
Strain the apple cider and vodka mixture over four copper mugs filled with ice.
Top each glass with ginger beer before serving, and garnish with mint and an apple slice, if you’re feeling fancy.
Why are Moscow Mules Served in Copper Mugs?
The main reason is quite simple: tradition! Mules were just always served in copper mugs. But the copper mugs serve another purpose, they keep the drink frosty cold. Copper takes on the temperature of the ice cold beverage, and then keeps your drink nice and cold, so you can extend your moment of relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do you have to use a copper mug for Moscow mules?
No you don’t, but metal mugs will keep the drink cooler, longer than a glass.
What should I serve with my Moscow mules?
I think Moscow mules pair well with spicy or heavily seasoned foods, so I’d recommend Jamaican Curry Chicken or Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavolo.
Can I turn this into a mocktail or virgin cocktail?
Yes, just replace the gin or vodka with club soda, or you could also increase the amount of ginger beer.
More Cocktails
- Spicy Grapefruit Paloma
- Cherry Vanilla Vodka Soda
- Pomegranate Sangria with Winter Citrus
- Peach Raspberry Frozen Sangria
- White Wine Ginger Beer Sangria
More Moscow Mules
Moscow mules are a favorite of mine, and I’ve experimented a lot with the cocktail. If you enjoyed this one, here are more variations for you to try:
- Peach Moscow Mules
- Cranberry Moscow Mule
- Strawberry Moscow Mule
- Pomegranate Moscow Mule
- Pear Moscow Mules
Did you try this cocktail and like it? The next time you make it, snap a picture and share it to your socials! Tag @thelemonbowl and #thelemonbowl so we can admire and share your dish.
Whether needing something refreshing for a moment alone, or enjoying it with others, these Apple Cider Moscow Mules are sure to please.
Your straw is waiting.
Apple Cider Moscow Mules
Equipment
Ingredients
- ¼ cup fresh mint
- 4 ounces gin (or vodka)
- 16 ounces apple cider
- 16 ounces ginger beer
- fresh mint and apple slices (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Place mint sprigs in a large cocktail shaker, then muddle with the back of a wooden spoon or muddler.
- Pour in vodka, apple cider, and ice, then shake well. Strain over four copper mugs filled with ice, about ⅔ full. Top each glass with ginger beer before serving.