This Cranberry Orange Moscow Mule is a fun twist on the classic drink! With zesty orange and tart cranberry mixed with vodka and ginger beer, it’s bright and bubbly.
It’s perfect for parties or a cozy night in, and let’s be real, who doesn’t love a drink that sparkles? I enjoy pouring it over ice with a slice of orange—cheers to yummy sips!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: This is the base spirit for the Moscow Mule. I like a good quality vodka for the clean flavor it brings. If you prefer a lighter drink, try using a flavored vodka, like orange or cranberry, for an extra twist.
Cranberry Juice: Opt for unsweetened or tart cranberry juice to keep it refreshing. If you want a sweeter drink, you can use cranberry cocktail juice, but adjust the lime juice to balance it out. Fresh cranberry puree can also work!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the drink. If you don’t have limes, you could use lemon juice, but it’ll give a different flavor profile. Bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, though fresh is always better.
Ginger Beer: This is a crucial element! Choose a strong and spicy ginger beer to enhance the drink’s flavors. If that’s unavailable, you could substitute with ginger ale, but it will be sweeter and milder.
How Do You Muddle Cranberries for the Best Flavor?
Muddling cranberries is simple and adds great flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Place fresh cranberries in your glass first. Use ripe, firm cranberries for the best taste.
- Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, press down gently on the cranberries to release their juice. Be careful not to pulverize them too much; we just want to break their skin.
- The muddled cranberries will mix beautifully with the other ingredients, giving the drink a lovely tartness and a pop of color.
Enjoy your drink with friends or on a special occasion—it’s sure to impress!
How to Make a Cranberry Orange Moscow Mule
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or tart)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
- 3 oz ginger beer
- 1/4 cup fresh cranberries (for garnish and muddling)
- Orange slice (for garnish)
- Lime wedge (for garnish)
- Crushed ice
Time Estimate:
This refreshing drink takes about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to mix up, making it perfect for impromptu gatherings or a quiet evening at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Muddle the Cranberries:
In a sturdy glass or a classic copper mug, add the fresh cranberries. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently press down on the cranberries to release their juice. This step adds a delicious tart flavor to your drink.
2. Combine the Liquids:
Next, pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, and freshly squeezed lime juice into the glass with the muddled cranberries. The combination of these ingredients creates a bright and tangy base for your Moscow Mule.
3. Add Crushed Ice:
Fill the glass with plenty of crushed ice. This not only chills the drink but also adds a fun texture!
4. Finish with Ginger Beer:
Now, pour the ginger beer over the ice. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients together while keeping the fizz intact.
5. Garnish and Serve:
For a beautiful presentation, garnish your drink with an orange slice and a lime wedge on the rim. You can also add a few whole cranberries on top to make it more festive.
6. Enjoy!
Your refreshing Cranberry Orange Moscow Mule is ready! Serve it immediately, take a sip, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!
Can I Use Different Fruit Juices in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cranberry and lime create a classic flavor combination, you can experiment with other juices as well. Try using pomegranate juice for a sweeter twist or grapefruit juice for an extra zesty profile. Just adjust the sweetness to your preference!
How Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
To make a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the vodka with additional ginger beer or a splash of soda water. You can also add more cranberry juice to maintain the fruity flavor, making it a refreshing mocktail!
Can I Store Leftover Ingredients?
Yes, you can store leftover ingredients! Fresh cranberries and ginger beer should be kept in the fridge and used within a week. If you have leftover juices, store them in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to a week as well. However, it’s best to mix the cocktail fresh when you want to enjoy it.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Cocktail for a Crowd?
If you’re serving a group, consider making a large batch in a pitcher! Combine the vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice in the pitcher, then pour in ginger beer and add ice just before serving to maintain the fizz. Garnish glasses individually to keep it festive!