Festive Cranberry Moscow Mule Cocktail Recipe | Holiday Vodka

Cranberry Moscow Mule – Bright, refreshing, and beautifully festive, the Cranberry Moscow Mule is a seasonal twist on the classic mule that blends tart cranberry flavor with zesty lime and spicy ginger beer. This drink is perfect for fall and winter gatherings, holiday parties, and cozy evenings when you want something that feels celebratory yet easy to make. The single appearance of the keyword Cranberry Moscow Mule fits naturally here, introducing a cocktail that balances sweet, tart, and spicy notes in every sip.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisines: American / Contemporary Cocktail

• Course: Beverage / Vodka Cocktail

• Servings: 1 cocktail (easily scalable)

• Calories (approx.): 180–200 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Active Time: 5 minutes

• Resting Time: None

• Total Time: 5 minutes

It’s a true “mix-and-serve” cocktail with instant payoff.

Equipment Needed

You will need:

• Copper mug or highball glass

• Jigger or measuring spoon

• Citrus juicer (optional)

• Bar spoon or stir stick

• Ice scoop

Optional but helpful:

• Microplane for lime zest

• Cocktail picks for garnish

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka

• 1 oz cranberry juice (100% or lightly sweetened)

• ½ oz fresh lime juice

• 4–5 oz chilled ginger beer

• Ice cubes

Garnish Options

• Fresh cranberries

• Lime wheel or wedge

• Rosemary sprig (for a holiday look)

Instructions

1. Fill the glass with ice
   Add ice cubes to a copper mug or tall glass until nearly full.

2. Add the base ingredients
   Pour vodka, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice directly over the ice.

3. Top with ginger beer
   Slowly pour ginger beer to fill the glass, allowing it to mix naturally.

4. Stir gently
   Use a bar spoon to lightly stir once or twice so flavors combine without losing carbonation.

5. Garnish and serve
   Add cranberries, a lime wedge, or rosemary for aroma and visual appeal. Serve immediately.

Nutrition 

Approximate nutrition per serving:

• Calories: 180–200 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 22–26 g

• Sugars: 18–22 g

• Fat: 0 g

• Protein: 0 g

• Sodium: 5–15 mg

• Alcohol Content: depends on vodka proof

Values vary by brand of cranberry juice and ginger beer.

Serving Suggestions

Pair it with:

• Cheese boards and charcuterie

• Roasted nuts and savory snacks

• Holiday appetizers

• Light pasta or seafood dishes

Perfect for:

• Thanksgiving gatherings

• Christmas parties

• Winter brunches

• Cocktail hours

Tips & Variations

• Sweeter version: Use cranberry cocktail instead of pure juice.

• Extra tart: Add an extra squeeze of lime.

• Herbal twist: Muddle a sprig of rosemary or thyme.

• Sparkling upgrade: Add a splash of prosecco.

• Mocktail version: Replace vodka with sparkling water or extra ginger beer.

For parties, mix vodka, cranberry juice, and lime in a pitcher ahead of time. Add ginger beer just before serving.

Final Thoughts

This festive mule variation proves that great cocktails don’t need complexity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you can serve a drink that feels special, seasonal, and universally appealing. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or winding down on a winter evening, this cocktail delivers refreshing flavor, vibrant color, and effortless charm in every glass.