Watermelon Mule Cocktail Recipe – Looking for a light, fruity cocktail that’s perfect for warm-weather sipping? Meet the Watermelon Mule Cocktail Recipe, a refreshing, vibrant twist on the classic Moscow Mule. This variation features juicy fresh watermelon, crisp vodka, zingy lime, and spicy ginger beer, making it the ultimate summer sipper.
Whether you’re lounging poolside, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just unwinding after a long, hot day, the Watermelon Mule delivers cooling relief with every sip. It’s hydrating, tangy-sweet, and fizzy—offering everything you want in a summer cocktail, all in one chilled copper mug.
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Active Time: 3 minutes
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Resting Time: 0 minutes
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Total Time: 8 minutes
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Servings: 1 cocktail
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Cuisine: American, Summer-Inspired
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Course: Drinks, Cocktails
Equipment
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Cocktail shaker or blender
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Fine mesh strainer (optional)
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Jigger or shot glass
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Bar spoon or stir stick
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Copper mug or tall glass
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Ice cubes
Ingredients
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2 oz vodka (chilled)
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½ cup fresh watermelon chunks (seedless, cold)
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½ oz fresh lime juice (about ½ a lime)
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3–4 oz ginger beer (chilled)
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Ice cubes
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Garnish: Watermelon wedge, mint leaves, or lime slice
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 165 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Sugars | 12 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Alcohol by Volume | ~12–14% ABV |
Instructions
Step 1: Muddle or Blend the Watermelon
Add fresh, seedless watermelon chunks into a cocktail shaker or small blender. Muddle until the fruit breaks down completely into juice. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain through a fine mesh strainer.
Step 2: Add Vodka and Lime Juice
Pour in 2 oz of vodka and ½ oz of fresh lime juice. These add crispness and balance to the watermelon’s natural sweetness.
Step 3: Shake or Stir
Add a handful of ice to the shaker. Shake briefly just to chill and mix. If using a glass, just stir well.
Step 4: Fill Your Mug or Glass
Fill your copper mug or tall glass with ice. Strain the watermelon mixture over the ice.
Step 5: Top with Ginger Beer
Slowly pour 3–4 oz of ginger beer over the mix. It adds fizz and that signature mule spice that pairs beautifully with watermelon.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with a fresh wedge of watermelon, a sprig of mint, or a slice of lime. Serve immediately and enjoy chilled.
Flavor Profile
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Sweet and juicy from the watermelon
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Zesty and bright from lime juice
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Spicy and fizzy from ginger beer
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Smooth and clean from vodka
The flavors blend perfectly, with the watermelon softening the ginger beer’s spice while lime keeps it vibrant.
Why You’ll Love This Watermelon Mule Cocktail Recipe
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Quick to make – Ready in under 10 minutes
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Uses fresh, seasonal fruit – Ideal for summer
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Light and hydrating – Doesn’t feel heavy
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Customizable – Try with tequila or rum too
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Perfect for entertaining – Looks stunning in the glass
Tips & Variations
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Make it sweeter: If your watermelon is under-ripe, add ½ tsp honey or agave.
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Try it with tequila: Swap vodka for silver tequila for a watermelon mule-meets-margarita vibe.
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Frozen version: Blend everything with ice for a slushie-style drink.
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Make a pitcher: Multiply the ingredients by 4–6x for a crowd. Just top with ginger beer before serving.
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Add herbs: Muddle fresh mint or basil with the watermelon for extra aroma.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use store-bought watermelon juice?
Yes! Just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar. But fresh watermelon gives the best flavor and texture.
Q2: What if I don’t have a shaker?
No problem. You can muddle the watermelon directly in a glass, mix it with the other ingredients, and stir well.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the watermelon, vodka, and lime mix a few hours in advance. But always add ginger beer fresh to preserve the fizz.
Q4: What kind of ginger beer is best?
Look for spicy and bold varieties like Fever-Tree or Reed’s for more kick. For a milder taste, go with lighter brands.
Q5: Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Absolutely. Skip the vodka and replace it with sparkling water or more ginger beer for a Watermelon Mule mocktail.
