Caramel Apple Moscow Mule

The Caramel Apple Moscow Mule is a cozy autumn twist on the classic mule, bringing together sweet caramel vodka, crisp apple cider, and the tang of lime. Topped with spicy ginger beer, it’s refreshing yet full of seasonal character. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon, along with apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish, enhances the drink with festive aroma and presentation. Served in traditional copper mugs over crushed ice, this cocktail is both crisp and comforting, making it a perfect choice for fall evenings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a flavorful seasonal mule with a touch of sweetness.

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Tasting Notes

The Caramel Apple Moscow Mule blends classic mule flavors with seasonal sweetness. Caramel vodka provides smooth, candy-like notes that pair beautifully with crisp apple cider. Lime juice balances the sweetness with bright acidity, while ginger beer adds bubbles and a sharp, spicy kick. A sprinkle of cinnamon ties the flavors together with warmth and seasonal aroma. Garnished with an apple slice and cinnamon stick, the drink is visually appealing and aromatic. Served in a copper mug over crushed ice, it’s refreshing, sweet, and spiced, making it a standout choice for autumn gatherings or festive celebrations.

Equipment and Glassware

Making this Caramel Apple Moscow Mule requires just a few basic tools. A cocktail shaker is key for blending the vodka, cider, and lime juice before topping with ginger beer. A jigger helps measure ingredients precisely, ensuring balanced sweetness and acidity. A bar spoon is useful for giving the cocktail a final stir once in the mug. For presentation, traditional copper mugs are ideal, keeping the drink icy cold and showcasing its classic mule style. A small sifter or shaker tin makes dusting cinnamon on top simple and even. A sharp knife helps prepare apple slices for garnish.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces caramel vodka
• 2 ounces apple cider
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• Ginger beer
• Ground cinnamon
• 2 cinnamon sticks for garnish
• Apple slices for garnish

Instructions

• In a cocktail shaker, combine the caramel vodka, apple cider, and lime juice. Shake until well mixed.
• Fill copper mugs 3/4 of the way full with crushed ice.
• Divide the cocktail mixture between the mugs.
• Top off each mug with chilled ginger beer, filling to the top.
• Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top of each drink.
• Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an apple slice.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

• Use freshly pressed apple cider for best flavor.
• Chill copper mugs beforehand for extra frostiness.
• Choose a bold ginger beer to complement the sweetness.
• Adjust lime juice to balance sweetness based on preference.
• Slice apples thin for garnish that floats neatly.
• Dust cinnamon lightly for aroma without overpowering the drink.
• Swap caramel vodka with spiced rum for variation.

When to Serve

The Caramel Apple Moscow Mule is perfect for fall entertaining, holiday parties, or casual evenings when you want something seasonal yet refreshing. Its balance of sweetness, spice, and fizz makes it versatile enough to serve before dinner, during festive gatherings, or even as an after-dinner cocktail. The presentation in copper mugs adds a celebratory touch, while the flavors pair well with hearty dishes, roasted meats, and seasonal desserts. Whether served at a Halloween party, Thanksgiving dinner, or a cozy night in, this mule delivers a festive blend of caramel and apple that suits cooler weather perfectly.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Caramel Vodka: Smirnoff Kissed Caramel, Stolichnaya Salted Karamel, or Van Gogh Dutch Caramel.
• Apple Cider: Martinelli’s, R.W. Knudsen, or fresh orchard-pressed cider.
• Ginger Beer: Fever-Tree, Bundaberg, or Q Mixers for bold spice.
• Cinnamon: McCormick or Simply Organic for garnish.
• Lime Juice: Fresh-squeezed for the brightest flavor.

Similar Cocktails

• Snow White’s Poison Apple
• Apple Cosmopolitan
• Apple Juice Maple Cocktail
• Kentucky Peach Bourbon and Vodka Cocktail
• Spiced Apple Margarita