This fun twist on a classic Moscow Mule brings together tart cranberries and zesty orange. It’s fizzy, refreshing, and perfect for any celebration.
The bright colors and flavors make it a real crowd-pleaser. I love serving it in a copper mug—it’s like a party in a glass! 🥂
Making this drink is a breeze! Just mix cranberry juice, orange juice, vodka, and ginger beer, and you’re ready to impress your friends with minimal effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: This is the base spirit for the Moscow Mule. If you’re looking for a twist, try using flavored vodka like citrus or even cranberry to enhance the drink!
Cranberry Juice: You can use unsweetened cranberry juice for a tart flavor or a lightly sweetened version for a sweeter drink. For a non-juice option, pureed cranberries can add a fresh element.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice works best for a vibrant taste. If you don’t have fresh oranges, store-bought juice is a good alternative. Just avoid the concentrate!
Ginger Beer: Choose a quality ginger beer for the best fizz and spice. If you want less sugar, opt for a diet or low-sugar version.
How Do I Get the Perfect Balance of Flavors?
Getting the balance right is key to a satisfying Moscow Mule. Start by measuring your juices and vodka accurately, then mix them gently to avoid losing the fizz. Adjust the lime and ginger beer to taste!
- Start with the vodka and juices, and stir before adding ginger beer.
- Top slowly to keep the bubbles from overflowing. Taste and feel free to tweak the juice levels to your liking.
Garnishing is also essential! Use fresh cranberries, which not only look lovely but also bring additional flavor. A slice of orange or lime adds a vibrant touch and aroma, making the drink even more inviting. Enjoy making this cocktail!
Cranberry Orange Moscow Mule
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- 4 oz ginger beer (chilled)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Orange slices (for garnish)
- Lime slices (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cocktail can be whipped up in about 5-10 minutes. You just need a few minutes for preparation, including juicing oranges and limes if you’re using fresh fruit. After that, it’s all about mixing and garnishing your drink!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass:
Start by filling a glass with ice cubes—if you have a copper mug, that’s perfect! The icy mug keeps your drink cool and adds to the classic Moscow Mule experience.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, fresh orange juice, and fresh lime juice. This fruity mixture brings a vibrant color and taste to your drink! Use a spoon or a stirrer to gently mix everything together, so the flavors meld without losing the bubbles.
3. Add the Ginger Beer:
Now, it’s time for the star of the show—ginger beer! Pour it slowly into your glass to keep that delightful fizz intact. Watch your cocktail come alive with bubbles and a wonderful aroma!
4. Garnish Your Drink:
To make your drink look as fabulous as it tastes, add some fresh cranberries. You can also place a slice of orange and a slice of lime on the rim or drop them inside the glass for an extra pop of color.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Cranberry Orange Moscow Mule is now ready to serve! Share it with friends or enjoy it on a cozy evening at home. Don’t forget to take a sip and savor the refreshing flavors!
Can I Use Fresh Cranberries Instead of Juice?
Absolutely! If you have fresh cranberries, you can muddle them at the bottom of your glass before adding the other ingredients. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the drink!
What If I Don’t Have Copper Mugs?
No worries! While copper mugs are traditional for Moscow Mules, any glass or tumbler will work just fine. Just be sure it’s chilled for the best experience!
How Can I Make This Non-Alcoholic?
You can easily make a mocktail version by omitting the vodka and replacing it with additional ginger beer or soda water. The fruity juices will still provide fantastic flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Ingredients?
Fresh juices can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Ginger beer should be stored in a cool place and enjoyed by the expiration date. Keep any leftover garnishes, like orange slices or cranberries, in the fridge as well, ideally consumed within a few days for freshness.
