Apple Cider Mule Recipe – A Refreshing Fall Cocktail

There’s something magical about fall—the crisp air, colorful leaves, and the irresistible flavors that come with the season. Among the many festive drinks, the Apple Cider Mule Recipe stands out as a must-try cocktail. A cozy twist on the classic Moscow Mule, this drink blends the tang of ginger beer, the warmth of apple cider, and a splash of vodka to create a perfectly spiced and refreshing beverage. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, a holiday party, or simply enjoying a night by the fire, this drink is easy to make and sure to impress.

Perfect for autumn, the Apple Cider Mule is not only festive but also beautifully simple. Served traditionally in a copper mug, this cocktail brings a lovely balance of sweet, spicy, and citrusy flavors. It’s a seasonal drink that can easily be customized with additional garnishes like cinnamon sticks, apple slices, and even a touch of rosemary for a hint of earthiness.

 

Ingredients

To make the best Apple Cider Mule, you’ll need a few fresh and simple ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka (choose a quality brand for best flavor)

• 2 oz fresh apple cider (unsweetened is preferred)

• 4 oz ginger beer (cold and fizzy)

• ½ oz fresh lime juice (about half a lime)

• Ice cubes

• Apple slices, for garnish

• Cinnamon sticks, for garnish

• Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional), for garnish

Equipment

You won’t need a lot of equipment to whip up this delicious fall cocktail:

• Copper mug (for traditional presentation)

• Jigger (for accurate measuring)

• Bar spoon (for stirring)

• Citrus juicer (optional, for fresh lime juice)

• Knife and cutting board (for garnishes)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a perfect Apple Cider Mule:

1. Fill the Mug
   Fill a copper mug with ice cubes until it’s about three-quarters full.

2. Add Vodka and Lime Juice
   Pour 2 oz of vodka and ½ oz of fresh lime juice over the ice.

3. Pour in the Apple Cider
   Add 2 oz of fresh apple cider to the mug.

4. Top with Ginger Beer
   Gently pour 4 oz of ginger beer over the mixture.

5. Stir
   Use a bar spoon to stir the drink gently, combining all the flavors without losing the ginger beer’s fizz.

6. Garnish
   Add a few apple slices, a cinnamon stick, and an optional sprig of rosemary for a festive, aromatic finish.

7. Serve Immediately
   Enjoy your refreshing Apple Cider Mule right away while it’s cold and fizzy!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 190

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Protein: 0g

• Fat: 0g

• Sugar: 17g

• Fiber: 0g

• Alcohol Content: Varies by vodka used

Note: These values are approximate and depend on the specific brands of cider, vodka, and ginger beer used.

Prep Time, Active Time, and Resting Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Active Time: 5 minutes

• Resting Time: None

• Total Time: 5 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes 1 serving, but it can easily be scaled up to serve multiple guests. Just adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.

Course

• Course: Drinks / Cocktails

Cuisine

• Cuisine: American, Fall Seasonal

Tips for the Best Apple Cider Mule

• Use Quality Apple Cider: Fresh, unfiltered apple cider brings out a rich, authentic flavor that pairs perfectly with the spice of ginger beer.

• Choose a Good Vodka: The vodka should be smooth and clean-tasting since it’s a major component of the drink.

• Don’t Skip the Garnish: Apple slices and cinnamon sticks don’t just make the drink beautiful—they add aroma and subtle hints of flavor.

• Serve in a Copper Mug: Copper mugs aren’t just traditional; they also keep your drink colder for longer, enhancing the experience.

• Chill All Ingredients: Cold cider, ginger beer, and vodka ensure that the ice doesn’t melt too quickly and dilute the drink.

Variations and Substitutions

• Non-Alcoholic Version: Simply omit the vodka and add a bit more cider or a splash of sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail.

• Spicy Mule: Use a spicier ginger beer or add a pinch of ground ginger to amplify the heat.

• Apple Cider Bourbon Mule: Swap the vodka for a smooth bourbon to create a richer, deeper flavor profile.

• Maple Mule: Add a teaspoon of pure maple syrup for an extra layer of cozy sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Mule Recipe

• Seasonal and Festive: It’s the perfect fall drink for parties, Thanksgiving, or cozy evenings.

• Quick and Easy: No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.

• Customizable: Easy to adjust flavors to your liking with different spirits, syrups, or garnishes.

• Beautiful Presentation: Garnishes make this drink look as good as it tastes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best to make Apple Cider Mules fresh because the ginger beer can lose its fizz if it sits too long. However, you can pre-mix the vodka, cider, and lime juice and store it chilled. When ready to serve, simply pour over ice and top with ginger beer.

What’s the best ginger beer for a mule?

Choose a high-quality ginger beer that’s bold and flavorful. Some popular brands include Fever-Tree, Goslings, and Q Mixers.

Do I have to use a copper mug?

While traditional and ideal, it’s not mandatory. Any glass will work fine, but the copper mug really does help keep the drink ice-cold and enhances the drinking experience.

Can I use hard apple cider instead of fresh cider?

Absolutely! If you want to give the drink a bit more alcohol content and some additional apple flavor, hard apple cider makes a delicious alternative.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Mule Recipe is everything you could want in a fall cocktail—refreshing, a little spicy, and filled with the classic tastes of autumn. Easy enough for weeknights but special enough for the holidays, this drink will quickly become one of your seasonal favorites.