Caribbean Mule Cocktail Recipe – is a tropical twist on the classic Moscow Mule. Instead of the traditional vodka, this island-inspired version swaps in smooth, spiced or dark Caribbean rum for a richer, bolder flavor that pairs beautifully with the zesty kick of ginger beer and the brightness of fresh lime juice. This cocktail is everything you’d expect from a beachside drink—cool, invigorating, and bursting with warm, exotic notes.
Perfect for summer parties, tiki nights, or relaxing after a long day, the Caribbean Mule embodies the spirit of island living in a single copper mug. The ingredients are simple, but the combination creates a cocktail that feels festive and transportive. It’s also incredibly easy to make and can be elevated with garnishes like fresh mint, lime wedges, or even a slice of pineapple for a decorative touch.
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Active Time: 5 minutes
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Resting Time: 0 minutes
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Total Time: 5 minutes
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Cuisine: Caribbean, Tropical, American Fusion
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Course: Beverages, Cocktails
Equipment Needed
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Copper mug or highball glass (optional but traditional)
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Cocktail jigger or measuring spoons
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Bar spoon or stirrer
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Citrus juicer (optional)
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Ice cubes or crushed ice
Ingredients
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2 oz dark or spiced Caribbean rum (like Mount Gay, Goslings, or Myers’s)
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½ oz fresh lime juice (about ½ of a lime)
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4–5 oz ginger beer (chilled)
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Ice (preferably crushed)
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Garnish: Fresh mint sprig, lime wedge, or pineapple slice (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Chill the Mug or Glass
To start, place your copper mug or highball glass in the freezer for a few minutes. A chilled glass helps keep your drink colder for longer and enhances the experience of this frosty cocktail.
Step 2: Add the Ice
Fill the mug or glass generously with crushed ice. Crushed ice chills the drink faster and gives it that classic Caribbean Mule texture and look.
Step 3: Pour in the Rum
Measure 2 ounces of dark or spiced rum using a jigger and pour it over the ice. Dark or spiced rum brings molasses-like depth, subtle vanilla, and hints of spice that elevate the cocktail’s flavor.
Step 4: Add Lime Juice
Squeeze fresh lime juice—about half an ounce—directly into the mug. Fresh juice is key here, as it brightens up the entire drink and balances the rum’s sweetness.
Step 5: Top with Ginger Beer
Pour 4 to 5 ounces of ginger beer over the rum and lime mixture. Use a high-quality ginger beer that has a good balance of spice and sweetness for the best results.
Step 6: Stir Gently
Using a bar spoon, give the drink a light stir to combine all the ingredients without losing the fizz of the ginger beer.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a lime wedge on the rim, a sprig of fresh mint, or even a small pineapple slice if you’re feeling festive. Serve immediately with a straw or sip straight from the chilled mug.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | ~160 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Sugars | 13 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | ~5 mg |
| Alcohol (ABV) | ~12–14% |
Tips & Variations
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For extra zest: Add a splash of orange or pineapple juice to boost tropical flavors.
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Use crushed ice: It keeps the drink colder longer and enhances the drink’s texture.
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Make it a pitcher: Multiply the ingredients by 4 or more for a party-sized batch.
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Spicy kick: Muddle a small slice of jalapeño before adding ice for a spiced version.
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Mocktail version: Skip the rum and add a splash of pineapple juice or coconut water for a tropical ginger beer refresher.
Why You’ll Love This Caribbean Mule Cocktail Recipe
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Quick to make – Ready in just 5 minutes with no special techniques needed.
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Minimal ingredients – You likely already have them on hand or can find them easily.
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Versatile – Great with different types of rum and ginger beer, and easy to customize.
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Tropical vibes – Perfect for summer, vacation, or any moment that needs an island escape.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to mixology or a seasoned cocktail enthusiast, the Caribbean Mule Cocktail Recipe is a must-have in your repertoire. It’s an effortless way to elevate your drink game while channeling the sunshine and laid-back attitude of the Caribbean.
