This Cranberry Orange Moscow Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic drink! It’s made with tart cranberry juice, zesty orange, and vibrant ginger beer, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
When I make this drink, I love to garnish it with fresh orange slices. It’s a fun drink for holiday parties, and let’s be honest, the copper mug just makes everything taste better! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Use your favorite brand of vodka. If you want a twist, opt for flavored vodka, such as citrus or berry, to enhance the fruitiness. A decent quality vodka really makes a difference in the drink’s overall flavor.
Cranberry Juice: I recommend using 100% cranberry juice for a tart flavor without added sugars. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using cranberry-flavored sparkling water as a substitute.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is essential for the best taste. You can substitute with bottled lime juice in a pinch, but fresh really enhances the flavor! If you prefer something sweeter, you could also add a hint of orange juice.
Ginger Beer: Choose a good quality ginger beer for that spicy kick. If you need a non-alcoholic option, you can use ginger ale, but keep in mind it’s milder in spice.
How Do You Create the Perfect Balance of Flavors?
Balancing the flavors in a Moscow Mule is key to achieving that refreshing taste. Start with a solid base—1 part juice to 2 parts ginger beer usually works well. Adjust to your preference as you taste.
- Mix vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice first, then taste. Add more lime for zing or more cranberry for sweetness.
- Pour the ginger beer slowly to keep the fizz alive and stir gently. This way, the drink remains bubbly!
- Garnish with cranberries, orange, and lime slices for aesthetics and extra flavor. It makes each sip more inviting!
How to Make a Cranberry Orange Moscow Mule
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or 100% juice)
- ½ oz fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
- 3 oz ginger beer (non-alcoholic or alcoholic as preferred)
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Orange slices, for garnish
- Lime slices, for garnish
- Ice cubes
Time Needed:
This refreshing cocktail will only take about 5 minutes to prepare. Perfect for a quick gathering or a relaxing evening at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by filling a glass (I love using a textured rocks glass or a classic copper mule mug) halfway with ice cubes. This will chill your drink right from the start!
2. Mix the Base:
Next, pour in 2 oz of vodka, 1 oz of cranberry juice, and ½ oz of fresh lime juice. Give it a gentle stir to mix these delicious flavors together.
3. Add the Ginger Beer:
Carefully top off your drink with 3 oz of ginger beer. Stir gently again to combine everything, being careful not to lose the fizz!
4. Garnish with Style:
To make your drink extra special, skewer a few fresh cranberries on a cocktail pick and place it on top of the drink. Then, add a slice of fresh orange and a slice of lime either on the rim or floating in the drink for a bright and cheerful look.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Cranberry Orange Moscow Mule is ready to be enjoyed! Serve immediately while it’s nice and cold. Cheers!
Can I Use Different Fruit Juices?
Absolutely! While cranberry and lime are classic choices, you can experiment with other juices like pomegranate or orange juice for a different flavor profile. Just keep the proportions similar for balance!
Can I Make This Drink Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! Simply omit the vodka and use extra ginger beer or a splash of club soda to keep it fizzy. You can also add more juice for sweetness and flavor. It’ll still be delicious!
How to Store Leftover Ingredients?
For any leftover cranberry juice or lime juice, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a week. Ginger beer is usually shelf-stable but check the label for specific storage instructions.
Can I Prepare This Drink in Advance?
It’s best to serve this drink fresh to enjoy the fizz from the ginger beer. However, you can mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice ahead of time and refrigerate it, then add ginger beer and ice just before serving.
