The Cranberry Apple Spice Mule is a warm and festive take on the traditional Moscow Mule, blending seasonal flavors that perfectly capture the spirit of the holidays. This cocktail brings together smooth vodka, crisp apple cider, and tangy cranberry sauce, all balanced by the lively kick of ginger beer. Each sip offers a mix of sweet, tart, and spicy notes that make it both comforting and refreshing. Served in a copper mug and garnished with cranberries or apple slices, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas parties, or cozy nights in, it’s a true seasonal favorite.

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Tasting Notes

The Cranberry Apple Spice Mule blends cozy holiday flavors with the refreshing fizz of a classic mule. The vodka keeps the base clean while apple cider adds sweetness and warmth. A spoonful of cranberry sauce gives the drink body and a hint of tartness, perfectly balanced by the spice of ginger beer. Each sip feels crisp yet comforting, with cinnamon and lime rounding out the finish. The aroma of apple, spice, and citrus makes this cocktail feel festive and inviting. Served in a chilled copper mug, it’s the ideal drink for holiday gatherings or cool winter evenings.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need just a few essentials to make this Cranberry Apple Spice Mule. A cocktail shaker helps blend the cider and cranberry sauce smoothly with the vodka before adding ginger beer. A jigger ensures precise measurements for balanced flavor, and a bar spoon makes for gentle stirring after topping the drink. Serve the finished cocktail in a copper mug, which keeps it cold and enhances its classic mule presentation. Make sure you have fresh ice on hand for both the shaker and mug, and don’t forget a small strainer to ensure a clean, smooth pour.

Ingredients

2 ounces vodka
2 ounces apple cider
0.5 ounce cranberry sauce
Ginger beer to top
1 cinnamon stick for garnish
Cranberry for garnish
Lime wheel for garnish

Instructions

Add ice to a cocktail shaker, filling it about halfway.
Pour in the vodka, apple cider, and cranberry sauce, then seal the shaker.
Shake vigorously until the shaker feels ice-cold to the touch.
Fill a copper mug halfway with ice, then strain the shaken mixture into the mug.
Top with ginger beer and stir gently with a spoon or a cinnamon stick.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick, cranberry and a lime wheel. Enjoy responsibly!

Pro Tips

Use chilled cider and vodka to keep the drink crisp and cold.
Opt for fresh cranberry sauce instead of canned for better flavor.
Shake longer to fully blend the cranberry sauce with the liquids.
Add a dash of ground cinnamon for an extra warm note.
Use spicy or extra-strong ginger beer if you like bold flavor.
Garnish just before serving so the lime and cranberries stay bright.
Serve in a chilled copper mug to keep the mule cold longer.
Stir gently to preserve the ginger beer’s natural fizz.

When to Serve

The Cranberry Apple Spice Mule is perfect for fall and winter celebrations. Serve it at Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas parties, or New Year’s gatherings for a cocktail that feels both refreshing and festive. Its warm apple and spice notes pair wonderfully with seasonal dishes like roasted meats, cheese boards, or baked desserts. It’s also great for casual get-togethers easy to make in batches and always a crowd favorite. Whether you’re sipping by a fire or serving at a holiday bar, this mule brings the right mix of comfort, brightness, and cheer to any occasion.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Vodka

Grey Goose
Tito’s Handmade
Ketel One
Absolut
Smirnoff

Ginger Beer

Fever-Tree
Bundaberg
Q Mixers
Goslings

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