The holiday season calls for festive flavors, and the Reindeer Mule is here to deliver just that! This holiday twist on the classic Moscow Mule combines the tangy taste of cranberry and lime with ginger beer for a refreshingly festive cocktail. With its vibrant red color, garnished with rosemary sprigs and fresh cranberries, the Reindeer Mule not only tastes great but looks like holiday cheer in a glass. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or relaxing by the fire, this drink is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened for tartness, or sweetened if you prefer a sweeter drink)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Ice (enough to fill a mule mug or rocks glass)
Preparation:
Step 1: Fill a copper mule mug or glass with ice. Using a copper mug is traditional for mules and helps keep the drink icy cold, but any glass will work.
Step 2: Add the vodka, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice over the ice. Stir gently to mix the ingredients and allow them to chill.
Step 3: Top off with ginger beer. Pour slowly to avoid too much foam, and give the drink another light stir to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Garnish with a sprig of rosemary and a few fresh cranberries. The rosemary adds a hint of herbal aroma and a pop of color, while the cranberries make the drink extra festive.
Step 5: Serve immediately and enjoy your festive Reindeer Mule!
Variations:
- Apple-Cranberry Mule: Substitute half the cranberry juice with apple cider for a hint of sweetness and a blend of classic holiday flavors.
- Spicy Reindeer Mule: Add a slice of fresh ginger or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick that balances the sweetness.
- Mocktail Reindeer Mule: Swap vodka with cranberry juice and add a splash of sparkling water for a refreshing non-alcoholic version.
Cooking Note:
For a bolder cranberry flavor, use cranberry concentrate or simmer fresh cranberries in a bit of sugar and water to create a cranberry syrup. Add 1-2 tablespoons of this syrup in place of cranberry juice for a thicker, richer taste.
Serving Suggestions:
The Reindeer Mule looks best in a copper mule mug, but a glass tumbler also works if you don’t have one on hand. Serve with a cocktail stirrer for guests who might want to adjust the mix. You can also line the rim of the mug or glass with sugar for an extra festive touch!
Tips:
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor—it adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cranberry.
- Ginger beer is key for the signature “mule” flavor; choose a brand with a good ginger kick for a more authentic taste.
- For an even more festive presentation, freeze fresh cranberries and use them as “ice cubes” to keep your drink cold without diluting it.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving):
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sugar: 14g
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best to make the Reindeer Mule fresh to preserve the carbonation of the ginger beer. However, you can mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice together in advance, then add ginger beer just before serving.
2. Can I substitute ginger ale for ginger beer?
Yes, you can use ginger ale if you prefer a milder ginger flavor. However, ginger beer provides the classic mule “bite” and is more traditional in taste.
3. What’s the best garnish for a Reindeer Mule?
Rosemary and fresh cranberries not only look festive but also complement the flavors in the drink. A cinnamon stick could also be a fun, warming garnish for a unique twist.
4. How can I make this drink lower in calories?
You can reduce the amount of cranberry juice or use a low-sugar version. Diet ginger beer is also available, and it’s a great way to cut down on added sugars without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
The Reindeer Mule is a holiday-ready twist on the Moscow Mule, bringing together the tartness of cranberries, the warmth of ginger, and the smoothness of vodka. It’s simple to make, incredibly refreshing, and guaranteed to add a touch of holiday spirit to any gathering. Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, this cocktail will quickly become a seasonal staple in your repertoire. Cheers to festive flavors and unforgettable holiday moments!
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Reindeer Mule
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened for tartness, or sweetened if you prefer a sweeter drink)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish)
- Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
- Ice (enough to fill a mule mug or rocks glass)
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Fill a copper mule mug or glass with ice. Using a copper mug is traditional for mules and helps keep the drink icy cold, but any glass will work.
Step 2: Add the vodka, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice over the ice. Stir gently to mix the ingredients and allow them to chill.
Step 3: Top off with ginger beer. Pour slowly to avoid too much foam, and give the drink another light stir to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Garnish with a sprig of rosemary and a few fresh cranberries. The rosemary adds a hint of herbal aroma and a pop of color, while the cranberries make the drink extra festive.
Step 5: Serve immediately and enjoy your festive Reindeer Mule!
Variations:
- Apple-Cranberry Mule: Substitute half the cranberry juice with apple cider for a hint of sweetness and a blend of classic holiday flavors.
- Spicy Reindeer Mule: Add a slice of fresh ginger or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick that balances the sweetness.
- Mocktail Reindeer Mule: Swap vodka with cranberry juice and add a splash of sparkling water for a refreshing non-alcoholic version.
Notes
For a bolder cranberry flavor, use cranberry concentrate or simmer fresh cranberries in a bit of sugar and water to create a cranberry syrup. Add 1-2 tablespoons of this syrup in place of cranberry juice for a thicker, richer taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 17g