Moscow Mules (also known as Vodka Buck) are simple cocktails you can mix for dinner parties, small get-togethers, or even for yourself after a long day at work.
Check out how to make the classic Moscow Mule, and discover ways to play with the recipe to get more delicious flavors.
Moscow Mule Recipe Overview
The Moscow Mule calls for:
- 2 ounces vodka
- 3 ounces of ginger beer
- 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- Lime wedge for garnish
Fill a copper mug or a highball glass with ice cubes and add the vodka and lime juice. Top with ginger beer slowly, and stir to combine.
Garnish with a lime wedge, and enjoy.
Ginger Beer vs. Ginger Ale: Which One Should You Choose?
The classic Moscow Mule recipe calls for ginger beer instead of ale.
Ginger beer and lime give this cocktail a refreshing flavor that cuts back on sweetness. Ginger ale, on the other hand, is a lot sweeter and has a less potent ginger flavor.
A great ginger beer bottle is the secret to making this cocktail recipe memorable, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can replace it with ginger ale and add some fresh ginger on top for a stronger taste profile.
Moscow Mule Nutrition Information
The Moscow Mule isn’t a high-calorie drink, but the numbers will depend on what type of ginger beer brands you use and toppings.
Here are the nutrition facts for the simple Moscow Mule:
- 210 calories
- 12 mg sodium
- 21g carbs (20g sugars)
- 0.1g protein
- Around 10% ABV
Tips for Serving a Moscow Mule Cocktail
Before you start mixing this cocktail, check out these key tips:
- Use copper mugs: A copper mug doesn’t just create a visual impression for this cocktail. These mugs are great conductors and can keep your drink colder for longer, which is key to enjoying a Moscow Mule cocktail. If you don’t have any copper mugs, a highball glass works as well.
- Only use cold ginger beer: Chill the ginger beer for at least 30 minutes before mixing the cocktail. Pop it in the freezer to cut down on the chilling time.
- Food pairings: Moscow Mules pair well with Mexican Cuisine, fish and chips, and other types of finger food. It’s refreshing and can balance our fatty and heavier foods.
- Serving sizes: This cocktail should be bubbly, so it’s best to avoid mixing bigger batches. If you’re having a party, mix individual drinks for your guests as needed, so everyone can enjoy the Moscow Mule as it’s supposed to be. For even better results, serve in an ice-cold copper mug.
Moscow Mule Variations to Try
This vodka ginger beer cocktail has some tasty variations to try:
- Kentucky Mule: Swap the vodka for bourbon.
- Mexican Mule: Add tequila instead of vodka.
- Irish Mule: Use Irish whiskey along with the best ginger beer.
- Gin Buck: Mix gin and ginger beers, and serve in the Moscow Mule copper mugs.
You can also make this cocktail using homemade ginger beer and add more creative toppings like mint or even simple syrup to make it sweeter.
Summing Up
When served in copper mugs, the Moscow Mules are the perfect summer drink to sip during dinner or a relaxing day next to the pool.
But this is a true year-round drink, so don’t be afraid to mix it on a chilly day at home, either!
