This Cranberry Bourbon Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. Made with crisp cranberry juice, smooth bourbon, and zesty ginger beer, it’s both sweet and spicy!
Perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights in, you’ll love how easy it is to mix up. Just shake, pour, and sip away. Don’t forget a lime wedge for that extra zing! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: This whiskey gives the drink its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using a blended whiskey or rye for a different twist.
Cranberry Juice: I recommend unsweetened cranberry juice to balance the sweetness of the ginger beer. If you want to make it sweeter, use cranberry cocktail juice instead, but adjust the lime juice accordingly.
Ginger Beer: This adds the spicy kick to the mule. If you can’t find ginger beer, you can substitute it with ginger ale, but it won’t have the same zing as ginger beer.
Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh is best here! Bottled lime juice doesn’t give the same bright flavor. If you’re out of limes, lemon juice works in a pinch.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Cranberry Bourbon Mule?
The secret is all in how you mix the ingredients! Start with cold ice—this keeps your drink refreshing. Use high-quality bourbon to enhance the flavor. The balance of sweet cranberry juice and tart lime juice works wonders, so stick to the recommended amounts.
- Build the drink by pouring the bourbon first; this helps to mix the flavors well.
- Pour ginger beer slowly to maintain its fizz—nobody likes a flat drink.
- Don’t skip the garnishes! A lime wedge adds a fresh touch, and thyme brings a lovely aroma.
How to Make a Cranberry Bourbon Mule
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish, optional)
- Lime wedge (for garnish)
- Fresh thyme sprig (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. Just gather your ingredients, mix, and garnish for a delightful drink that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass:
Start by filling a copper mule mug or a tall glass with ice cubes. This will chill your drink nicely!
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Pour 2 oz of bourbon over the ice. Next, add in 1 oz of cranberry juice followed by 1/2 oz of freshly squeezed lime juice. This creating the delicious foundation of your cocktail!
3. Top It Off:
Now, it’s time to add some fizz! Top your mixture with 4 oz of ginger beer. This adds that classic mule sparkle!
4. Stir and Combine:
Gently stir the ingredients together to make sure everything is blended evenly. You want all those wonderful flavors to mix!
5. Garnish Your Drink:
For a nice finishing touch, garnish with a wedge of lime and place a sprig of fresh thyme on the rim. If you like, toss in a few fresh cranberries for an extra festive look!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Bourbon Mule! Savor the delightful mix of flavors with each sip!
Can I Use a Different Type of Whiskey?
Absolutely! While bourbon is traditional, you can use other whiskeys like rye or blended whiskey for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each type will slightly alter the drink’s taste.
What If I Don’t Have Ginger Beer?
If ginger beer isn’t available, you can substitute it with ginger ale. While it’ll be sweeter and not quite as spicy, it will still work well in the cocktail!
Can I Make This Cocktail in Advance?
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the bourbon, cranberry juice, and lime mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and mix in the ginger beer right before serving to keep the fizz!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the unmixed bourbon mixture in the fridge for up to a day. Avoid storing the mixed drink, as the ginger beer will lose its carbonation. Make a new drink fresh when you’re ready to enjoy more!
