A Cranberry Moscow Mule is the perfect blend of festive color, refreshing flavor, and holiday cheer. This vibrant cocktail takes the classic Moscow Mule and gives it a Christmas-ready twist with tart cranberry juice, creating a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Served in its signature copper mug and garnished with fresh cranberries and rosemary, this cocktail instantly elevates any holiday gathering.
Crisp ginger beer, smooth vodka, zesty lime, and ruby-red cranberry juice come together to create a balanced cocktail that’s refreshing yet cozy enough for winter celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, planning a festive dinner, or simply unwinding by the fire, the Cranberry Moscow Mule feels celebratory without being heavy or overly sweet.
Why Cranberry Moscow Mule Is Perfect for the Holidays
Festive Appearance
The deep red color instantly feels Christmas-themed and elegant.
Refreshing Yet Seasonal
Cranberry adds brightness that balances winter’s heavier flavors.
Easy to Make
Minimal ingredients and no special equipment required.
Crowd-Pleaser
Loved by both casual cocktail drinkers and enthusiasts.
Customizable
Easily adapted into mocktails or batch drinks for parties.
Ingredients for Cranberry Moscow Mule
Cocktail Ingredients (1 Serving)
- 2 oz vodka
- 3 oz ginger beer
- 2 oz cranberry juice (100% cranberry or cranberry blend)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh cranberries
- Lime wedges or slices
- Rosemary sprigs
- Sugared cranberries
Optional Sweetener
- 1/2 oz simple syrup or honey syrup (if using very tart cranberry juice)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Chill the Mug
Place a copper mug or glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes for the best chill.
Step 2: Add Ice
Fill the chilled mug with ice cubes.
Step 3: Add Vodka and Lime Juice
Pour vodka and fresh lime juice over the ice.
Step 4: Add Cranberry Juice
Add cranberry juice and gently stir to combine.
Step 5: Top with Ginger Beer
Pour ginger beer over the mixture and stir lightly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh cranberries, a lime wedge, or a rosemary sprig. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Moscow Mule
Use Quality Ginger Beer
Choose a ginger beer with bold ginger flavor for the best balance.
Fresh Lime Is Essential
Freshly squeezed lime juice makes a noticeable difference.
Control Sweetness
If your cranberry juice is very tart, add a small amount of sweetener.
Don’t Over-Stir
Gentle stirring preserves carbonation.
Serve Ice-Cold
A well-chilled mug enhances the refreshing taste.
Variations
White Cranberry Moscow Mule
Use white cranberry juice for a lighter color and milder flavor.
Orange Cranberry Moscow Mule
Add a splash of fresh orange juice for citrus warmth.
Spiced Cranberry Moscow Mule
Add a pinch of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick for holiday spice.
Cranberry Moscow Mule Mocktail
Replace vodka with sparkling water or extra ginger beer.
Apple Cranberry Mule
Swap half the cranberry juice with apple cider for a cozy twist.
Frozen Cranberry Mule
Blend ingredients with ice for a festive slushy cocktail.
Serving Ideas
Christmas Parties
Serve in copper mugs with festive garnishes on a drink station.
Holiday Dinner
Pair with roasted meats, appetizers, or rich holiday dishes.
New Year’s Eve
A refreshing alternative to champagne cocktails.
Cocktail Hour
Serve alongside cheese boards or savory snacks.
Festive Presentation
Use sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs for a Christmas look.
Batch Recipe for Parties
Ingredients (8 Servings)
- 2 cups vodka
- 2 cups cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- 4 cups ginger beer
Instructions
Combine vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice in a large pitcher. Chill until ready to serve. Add ginger beer just before serving. Pour over ice and garnish.
Storage Instructions
Prepared Mix
Vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
Ginger Beer
Add just before serving to keep carbonation fresh.
Leftovers
Best enjoyed fresh; carbonation fades if stored too long.
Nutrition Information
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: 190
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 14g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
FAQs About Cranberry Moscow Mule
1. Can I use cranberry cocktail instead of juice?
Yes, but it will be sweeter. Reduce or skip added sweetener.
2. Do I have to use a copper mug?
No, but copper mugs keep the drink colder longer.
3. Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
Partially. Mix everything except ginger beer ahead and add it just before serving.
4. What vodka works best?
Any good-quality neutral vodka works well.
5. Is this cocktail very strong?
It’s balanced and refreshing, not overly strong.
6. Can I make it alcohol-free?
Yes, replace vodka with sparkling water or ginger ale.
7. How do I make it extra festive?
Use sugared cranberries, rosemary, and a lime wheel garnish.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Moscow Mule is a festive holiday cocktail that combines elegance, simplicity, and refreshing flavor in one beautiful drink. Its bright cranberry notes, crisp ginger beer, and zesty lime make it the perfect balance between seasonal warmth and refreshing lightness. Ideal for Christmas parties, holiday dinners, and winter celebrations, this cocktail is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, the Cranberry Moscow Mule deserves a spot in your holiday drink lineup. Whether served in traditional copper mugs or festive glasses, it brings color, flavor, and cheer to any gathering. Add this cocktail to your Christmas traditions and enjoy a drink that truly captures the spirit of the season.
