Spicy ginger beer and vodka cocktail
Moscow Mule
Prep Time
3 min
Cook Time
0 min
Total Time
3 min
Servings
1
1 cocktail
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Moderate
$$
Recipe at a Glance
A crisp, refreshing cocktail combining vodka, zesty ginger beer, and fresh lime. Traditionally served in a copper mug, this effervescent drink delivers a spicy, citrusy kick.
Cuisine: American
Category: Snack
Difficulty: Easy
Cost: $$
Dietary: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Quick Summary
3 min total time|1 servings|Easy difficulty
A crisp, refreshing cocktail combining vodka, zesty ginger beer, and fresh lime. Traditionally served in a copper mug, this effervescent drink delivers a spicy, citrusy kick.
AmericanVeganGluten-FreeDairy-Free
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
The Moscow Mule is one of the simplest cocktails to make and one of the most refreshing. Quality ginger beer is the star here—its spicy fizz elevates simple vodka and lime into something special.
This is the kind of recipe that defines American home cooking at its best — straightforward, satisfying, and built on flavors that everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 4-6 oz ginger beer
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge for garnish
- Fresh mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- 1
Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice cubes.
- 2
Pour vodka and lime juice over the ice.
- 3
Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
- 4
Squeeze a lime wedge into the drink and drop it in.
- 5
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve with classic coleslaw and cornbread on the side
Pair with fresh-cut fries or roasted potato wedges
Arrange on a platter for easy sharing at your next gathering
Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor
Substitutions
VodkaBourbon (Kentucky Mule) or tequila (Mexican Mule)
Each creates a unique variation
Ginger beerGinger ale
Less spicy and more subtle but still refreshing
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Use a spicy ginger beer (not ginger ale) for the authentic kick—Fever-Tree or Q are great choices.
A copper mug is traditional and keeps the drink colder, but any glass works.
Let the protein rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Season each component individually rather than seasoning at the end — this builds deeper, more complex flavor throughout.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date and recipe name.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Stovetop reheating over medium-low heat is also effective.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (0mg) · 1 servings
Calories170
LowModerateHigh
A light, low-calorie option · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein0g
Carbohydrates0g
Fat10g
Fiber5mg
Sugar0g
Sodium8g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between ginger beer and ginger ale?
- Ginger beer is spicier and bolder. Ginger ale is sweeter and milder.
- Can I make a Kentucky Mule?
- Yes—swap vodka for bourbon for a Kentucky Mule variation.
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About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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