Peppermint Moscow Mule

The Peppermint Moscow Mule first showed up at my table during a small get-together. I wanted something fast with a little color, and people kept asking what it was before I even passed the first mug across the room. The sparkle of the crushed peppermints looked playful, and the mix smelled crisp, drawing everyone closer. That was the moment I realized how much this drink could shift the mood with almost no effort at all.

I love that it’s become a go-to recipe: easy, pretty, and with flavors that work together for anyone. The mint cools cleanly, while ginger beer keeps it lively. Lime ties it all with a fresh, sour swipe. Even friends who avoid peppermint drinks finish the whole mug. It’s the kind of drink you can mix after a long day without much thought.

It’s great for holiday gatherings or any moment when you want a drink that feels welcoming but not fussy. The Peppermint Moscow Mule fits weeknight dinners, winter brunch tables, and late-night conversations when you just want something light that still feels festive. It’s simple in the best way, which is why it keeps coming back every season.

Why You’ll Love This

This drink combines winter flavors in a clean, friendly way. Ginger beer and mint keep it bright, while peppermint vodka adds a soft chill for cold nights.

• Balanced: Fresh, not overly sweet, so guests enjoy each sip.
• Quick: Mixes in minutes, perfect for easy hosting.
• Festive: Crushed peppermint rim gives cheerful color and texture.
• Accessible: Ingredients are easy to find during the holidays.
• Versatile: Great for both casual nights and small gatherings.
• Bubbly: Fizz adds a lively and uplifting finish.

These details make the Peppermint Moscow Mule simple yet special, without fuss.

Ingredients

This recipe features winter flavors that pair well. Peppermint vodka adds cool notes, lime brightens, and ginger beer keeps it crisp and easy to sip.

• 2 ounces peppermint vodka
• 3 ounces ginger beer to top
• 1 ounce lime juice
• fresh cranberries for garnish
• fresh mint leaves for garnish
• crushed peppermints for garnish

Each ingredient matters. Peppermint vodka delivers holiday flavor. Lime juice balances sweetness with a sharp twist. Ginger beer keeps it bubbly and refreshing. Cranberries, mint, and crushed peppermint add color and texture. Together, they make a Peppermint Moscow Mule that’s quick yet thoughtful.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

You don’t need fancy bottles for a quality drink. A few reliable brands help keep flavors balanced.

• Smirnoff Peppermint Twist vodka adds bright mint notes without overpowering the drink.
• Absolut works if you want something smooth with a gentle peppermint flavor.
• Fever Tree ginger beer gives a strong ginger warmth that lifts the drink.
• Goslings’ ginger beer creates a softer finish if you prefer less bite.
• Fresh lime juice is best, but bottled lime juice is a suitable alternative in a pinch.
• Club soda can stretch the drink if you want a lighter version.

These choices keep the Peppermint Moscow Mule consistent even when ingredients change.

Equipment and Glassware

A copper mug is traditional, keeping the drink cold and adding festive sparkle. If you don’t have one, use a rocks glass.

Helpful tools

• Copper Mug
• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Bar Spoon

A chilled mug keeps the drink crisp. Freeze the mug for a few minutes before mixing; the colder the mug, the smoother the ginger beer. Rim the mug with peppermints before pouring, so they stick.

How to Make It

This recipe is quick but delivers a polished drink. Steps are fast and simple.

1. Fill a copper mule mug with ice and add a handful of fresh mint leaves.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the peppermint vodka and lime juice. Shake until the mix feels cold.
3. Pour the mixture over the ice in the mug and top with ginger beer for a light fizz.
4. Garnish with more fresh mint, a few cranberries, and a small sprinkle of crushed peppermints.

Serve right away while everything is cold and crisp.

Pro Tips

Small steps make the drink smoother and look better.

• Chill your copper mug before pouring.
• Shake the vodka and lime longer if you want a colder base.
• Use clear ice for a cleaner look.
• Crush peppermints finely, so they stick better.
• Add a mint sprig near the straw so you smell it with each sip.
• Try different ginger beers to find your preferred level of spice.
• Add a few cranberries to float for more color.

These touches help your Peppermint Moscow Mule stand out at any gathering.

Variations

This drink easily adapts to your ingredients or preferred flavor.

• Add white cranberry juice for a fruitier twist.
• Use regular vodka with a tiny drop of peppermint extract if you’re out of peppermint vodka.
• Add a splash of club soda to make it lighter.
• Swap lime for lemon for a softer citrus edge.
• Use sugar-free ginger beer for a reduced-sugar version.

Each version keeps the spirit of the Peppermint Moscow Mule but offers something new.

When to Serve and Pairings

This drink suits winter gatherings, cozy nights, and casual dinners. Cool mint and bright lime complement snacks and desserts.

Try serving it with:

• Chocolate truffles
• Sugar cookies
• Cheesecake bites
• Candied nuts
• Soft cheeses like brie

Serve before dinner, during a party, or as a refreshing treat.

Storage and Serving Notes

You can prep the vodka-lime mixture ahead of time and keep it chilled. Wait to add the ginger beer until serving so the bubbles stay strong. If you’re making several drinks, rim the mugs ahead of time and store them in the fridge so the crushed peppermints don’t slide off. The Peppermint Moscow Mule tastes best when served immediately.

FAQs

 How strong is this cocktail?
It’s lighter than many winter drinks, which makes it easy to sip through a party. The ginger beer adds flavor steadily, while the peppermint vodka keeps things bright without feeling heavy.

Can I use regular vodka instead of peppermint vodka?
You can, and it will still taste good. Add a drop of peppermint extract to keep the mint note if you want it to stand out.

Does ginger ale work if I don’t have ginger beer?
It works, but the taste will be softer. Ginger beer adds warmth and depth, making the mule feel fresher and more balanced.

How do I make the drink less sweet?
Skip the crushed peppermint rim or add extra lime juice. Both adjustments make the drink cleaner without losing its style.

Can I turn this into a mocktail?
Yes. Use club soda instead of vodka and keep ginger beer as the base. The drink stays crisp, and the mint garnish adds a festive touch.

More Cocktails to Try

If you like this drink, try these other winter-style options.

• Peppermint White Russian with a creamy finish
• Cranberry Apple Spice Mule with bright fruit flavor
• White Christmas Mojito with fresh mint and lime
• Vanilla Pear and Ginger Fizz with warm spice notes