Kentucky Mule Cocktail Recipe – The Kentucky Mule is a local variation of the Moscow Mule, and it honors two things Americans take great delight in, fine bourbon whiskey and innovative mixers. Although the classic mule is a refreshing mixture of vodka, lime, and ginger beer, the recipe also incorporates bourbon a smooth and oaky liquor that lends the drink good Southern flair and taste.

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Why can the Kentucky Mule be so captivating? It is more about the balance, the spicy ginger beer, the zest of lime and the depth and warmth of bourbon. It would be a perfect bourbon drink or a cocktail enthusiast who seeks a drink that is slightly smoky and sweet.
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: American, Southern, Fusion
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Course: Beverages, Cocktails
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Servings: 1
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Calories: Approximately 165 kcal per serving
Equipment Needed
To make a Kentucky Mule, you’ll need the following:
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Copper mug (or any cocktail glass)
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Cocktail jigger or measuring shot glass
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Bar spoon or stirrer
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Citrus juicer (optional but helpful)
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Ice cube tray
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for one classic Kentucky Mule:
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2 oz Kentucky bourbon (choose a good-quality one like Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve)
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½ oz fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
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4–6 oz ginger beer (chilled, not ginger ale)
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Ice cubes
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Lime wedge or wheel, for garnish
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Fresh mint (optional, for garnish)
Instruction
Step 1: Chill your mug or glass
If you are using a traditional copper mug, keep it in the freezer for a few minutes while preparing the material. This keeps the drink icy cool and increases the fresh experience.
Step 2: Add ice
Fill your cold mug or cocktail glass with ice cubes at the top. Step 3: Pour Borban Measure 2 ounces of borbon using a liver and put it directly on ice.
Step 4: Add lime
juice Squeeze about the fresh lime juice of ounces on the bourbon. Use a citrus juicer for better yield and no seed.
Step 5: Top with ginger beer
Gently add 4 to 6 ounce cool ginger beer over the mixture. Adjust to your taste – more ginger beer for a light drink, low for a strong kick.
Step 6: Stir slowly
Once using a spoon, give the cocktail a gentle movement to mix the flavor evenly.
Step 7: Garnish and Service
Garnish with a lime nail or wheel on the rim. For additional aroma, add a branch of fresh mint. Serve immediately and enjoy spicy, citrus, borbon-rich joy.

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Nutrition
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 165 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 11 g |
Sugar | 10 g |
Fat | 0 g |
Protein | 0 g |
Sodium | 5 mg |
Alcohol | ~14% ABV |
Tips for Success
Use a high quality bombon: Since the Borbon is the star of the show, choose a brand option that you enjoy seeping on your own.
Avoid ginger: Ginger beer has a spicir and boulder taste that is better balanced with burban.
Chill all ingredients: Keep borbon and ginger beer cool for more fresh cocktails.
Fresh lime juice only: Bottled lime juice can be very acidic or bitter – is always best.
Customize it: Add a piece of bitters or fresh ginger to the depth of extra taste.
Final Thoughts
The Kentucky Mule Cocktail Recipe is a must-try for any bourbon lover or cocktail enthusiast looking for a refreshing yet bold drink. With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy this Southern twist on a classic mule anytime. It delivers a perfect blend of zingy lime, fiery ginger, and smooth bourbon—all served up in that signature copper mug.