This delicious twist on the traditional Moscow Mule drink is worth keeping around even after the Christmas tree comes down. It incorporates some gorgeous Christmas flavors to take the Moscow Mule from summertime favorite to your holiday drink of choice.
We’re always on the lookout for seasonal cocktail recipes. You can’t go wrong with the classics, of course, but we find that mixing up flavors to suit the seasons is a joyful way to embrace the time of year. For this cocktail, we’re raising a glass to Christmas.
So, what’s the secret?
In addition to the classic Moscow Mule flavors, this Christmas cocktail adds a hint of cranberry for a tart, fruity twist and the herbaceous essence of rosemary and sage. Now, don’t worry if you’re new to mixing up your own drinks: this cocktail recipe isn’t just for the culinary mastermind. The flavors are incorporated simply, with muddling that crushes the leaves to release aroma and flavor.
Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or a first-time host, this holiday Moscow Mule recipe will be the bar favorite at your next holiday soiree — and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your home already.
Of course, it all starts with a classic Moscow Mule base, so let’s dive in and see how a few small tweaks can bring this traditional cocktail into your holiday celebrations.
Christmas Moscow Mule
Equipment
- Copper Mug
- Copper Shaker
Ingredients
- 3 rosemary sprigs
- 2 sage leaves
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 oz vodka
- 2 oz cranberry juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- 0.5 oz lime
- 1 cup ice
Instructions
- 1. In a copper cocktail shaker, muddle a small amount of rosemary and sage with a teaspoon of sugar. In other words, gently press down on the mixture of herbs and sugar with the utensil of your choice, rocking back and forth and twisting. This will help draw out some of the natural oils from the herbs to give your cocktail an aromatic edge.
- 2. Add vodka and cranberry juice to your cocktail shaker.
- 3. Add lime juice to taste.
- 4. Replace the lid and shake the ingredients together.
- 5. Pour your concoction into a copper Moscow Mule mug
- 6. Top with crushed ice.
- 7. Fill to just below the rim with your ginger beer of preference.
- 8. Garnish as desired.
Notes
Modifications
A Lighter Twist
Looking for a lighter, more effervescent version of the drink? Cut the ginger beer with sparkling water or club soda.
Christmas Moscow Mule Mocktail
Not all cocktails are created equal — especially around the holidays. For a non-alcoholic holiday cocktail solution, simply skip the vodka and enjoy it without. No matter who’s driving home, the beverage tastes wonderful with ginger beer, lime, and our festive twist.
Swap Out the Sage
If you’d prefer, you can swap the sage leaves out for mint. This will totally transform the drink from having an earthy, savory edge to leaning into lighter, more refreshing flavors. (If you’re looking for more minty goodness, try our cranberry-apple mint julep recipe, too!)
Why copper mugs for Moscow Mules?
Ever since the Moscow Mule was invented, it’s called for being served in a special copper mug. That’s because copper is an excellent thermal conductor. The whole mug gets chilly, including the rim, which adds to the frosty sensation with every sip.
We know what you’re thinking. A cold drink seems a little bit counterintuitive during the winter months, when we tend to think of mulled wine, hot cocoa, and warmed cider. But trust us on this one. A cold beverage is just the thing for a cozy holiday gathering where everyone is rocking their most festive sweaters, the house is filled with people, and the oven’s been on all day long.
Another benefit of copper? It looks gorgeous on your Christmas table or at the bar cart. Check out our entire selection of copper mugs and find the set that best suits your style.
Merry Christmas from our team to you!
Whether you’re mixing up a drink to share as chestnuts roast over an open fire or creating a custom cocktail to be the star of your party, we hope the season brings you comfort and joy. Cheers to celebrations with family and friends!
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