Classic Moscow Mule (Fast & Easy!)

You’ve got the copper mugs, the ginger beer and the vodka: all you need is a recipe. Here’s how to make a classic Moscow mule!

It’s sparkling, sparkling, impressive and goes down easily. Get to know the classic Moscow donkey! This drink was invented in the 1940s, but it’s having a moment even now. It only has 3 ingredients and is prepared in 3 minutes: perfect for parties or a cozy evening on the terrace. Aside from the margarita, this might be one of our all-time favorite drinks. Though really… how can we pick just one? How to make this refreshing vodka cocktail!

What’s in a Moscow mule?

A Moscow Mule is a classic 1940s cocktail made with vodka and ginger beer. It’s actually part of a family of cocktails called Buck: a cocktail made with liqueur, ginger ale or ginger beer, and citrus juice. So it can also be called the vodka dollar! This classic cocktail is on the International Bartender Association’s list of official IBA cocktails. The official definition of a Moscow Mule is:

• vodka
• Ginger ale
• lime juice

How to make a mule

Since a Moscow Mule is all about carbonating ginger beer, this drink is not mixed in a shaker. To keep it sparkling, it is simply mixed straight into the cup and served over ice. You don’t even need a shaker! This makes it one of the easiest cocktail recipes you can find. Here’s what to do:

1. Pour the ingredients into a copper mug. (Why a copper mug? Read on…)
2. Add ice cubes and garnish with lime. It is so easy!

Why are Moscow mules served in copper tankards?

As you may know, Moscow mules are traditionally served in a copper mug or cup. But should it be served in copper? Why are mules served in copper at all? There are a few reasons:

• Copper keeps the drink cool differently than glass. The copper immediately takes on the temperature of the drink. And a sip of the drink with a cool copper rim has it all: It’s even colder!
• Tradition! According to this source, the Moscow mule was invented in the 1940s as a marketing system to sell more vodka, ginger beer, and copper mugs. People in Hollywood fell in love with him, and there were a lot of pictures of celebrities drinking mules from copper cups back then. It caught on and is still the traditional way to drink this cocktail.

Should it be served in copper? Of course not! The Moscow Mule tastes great in any type of mug or glass. Use a lowball glass, ball glass, standard cup: whatever you like.

Where can I find copper mugs for Moscow Mules?

If you’re going to use copper mugs for your mule: you’ve got to go with it solid copper! This is the only way to get the perfect cold, refreshing sip. The mugs we used in these photos are sold out, but here are some others we recommend. Copper mugs from Moscow Mule make great gifts, especially party favors for couples who love to make great cocktails! Take some: Copper Moscow Mule Mugs on Amazon.

What ginger beer to use in a mule?

There are so many ginger beer brands out there! Look for ginger beer made with real ginger, with no artificial flavors or sweeteners. Here are a few brands we love – but of course you can use whatever you like:

• Q ginger beer: This is our top pick! Tastes great and is made with real ginger. It comes in small boxes so you don’t have to open a big bottle. (That’s the biggest plus!)
• Fever Tree Ginger Beer: Fever Tree also has great flavor and is our backup. It’s made with real ginger and contains no artificial sweeteners.
• Other ginger beer brands: Here is a list of other top brands.

Fancy more with ginger beer? Check out these best ginger beer cocktails.

Variations on the Mule

With such a classic recipe, there are countless variations on the Moscow Mule! Here are some of our favorites and a few more ideas to try:

• Kentucky Mule: Substitute bourbon for vodka for a whimsical take on whiskey.
• Mexican red mullet: Use tequila instead of vodka! The way the tequila bite interacts with the spicy ginger is irresistible.
• Mule Gin Gin A modern classic, essentially a cross between a mule and a mojito.
• dark and stormy: Use dark rum in a highball glass and you have another classic cocktail.
• Mezcal mullet: Use tequila and mezcal for a smoky twist on the mule.
• Irish Mullet: Use Irish whiskey instead of vodka: the spicy finish is irresistible.
• Watermelon Mule Where Cider Mule These seasonal spins allow you to drink the mule all year round.

When to serve a Moscow Mule

The Moscow Mule is a classic vodka cocktail that’s delicious because it’s versatile. It’s perfect for sipping as:

• Happy hour drink
• Drink at dinner
• summer drink
• Drinks late into the night
• Evening drink between boys or between girls
• Aperitif at aperitif time

Rather classic cocktails

Here are a few more of our classic cocktails to add to your repertoire:

• Classic Margarita The Best Classic Margarita: Lime, Tequila, and Cointreau. Perfection! And here are 10 ways to make a margarita.
• Best Gin Tonic Here are the keys to the best gin tonic, the most refreshing 2 ingredient cocktail! A few mysteries take over this crunchy, botanical drink.
• Tom Collins Cocktail This popular sweet and sour cocktail is light and sparkling! Don’t forget the cherry.
• Whiskey Sour This is the best whiskey sour recipe you will find: a perfectly balanced and sweet tart! Or try a Boston Sour for a frothy topping twist.
• Best Mimosa The best mimosa recipe! This one is made with Italian Prosecco, orange juice and a dash of Cointreau for the perfect sparkling citrus taste.

Last updated: August 2020