Picture this: It’s that magical time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s when every gathering deserves a signature cocktail that sparkles as much as the conversation. My Cranberry Moscow Mule with fresh rosemary became an accidental star at one such holiday party – born from desperation when I ran out of limes mid-mixing! What started as a kitchen improvisation turned into our family’s most requested winter drink. The tart cranberry juice cuts through the ginger beer’s spice beautifully, while that rosemary sprig makes it look (and smell) like Christmas in a copper mug. Trust me, this festive twist on the classic Moscow Mule will have your guests asking for the recipe after their first sip.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Moscow Mule
This isn’t just another cocktail—it’s the holiday drink you didn’t know you needed. Here’s why:
- Festive flair: The ruby-red cranberry and fragrant rosemary make it look gorgeous on any holiday table (bonus: that rosemary aroma instantly puts guests in a celebratory mood).
- Perfect balance: Tart cranberry plays off spicy ginger beer so well, you’ll forget regular Moscow Mules exist.
- Effortless magic: No fancy techniques here—just dump, stir, and garnish. Even my cousin who burns microwave popcorn nails this recipe.
Seriously, it’s the cocktail equivalent of your coziest winter sweater.
Cranberry Moscow Mule Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for this holiday showstopper (measurements matter – I’ve tested this a dozen times to get it just right!):
- 2 oz vodka (I use Tito’s, but any decent unflavored vodka works)
- 1 oz cranberry juice (100% juice, not cocktail – the extra tartness is key)
- ½ oz lime juice (fresh squeezed only – bottled tastes flat here)
- 4 oz ginger beer (Fever-Tree or Q Mixers give the best spicy kick)
- 1 fat sprig fresh rosemary (about 3 inches long – we’ll use half in the drink, half for garnish)
- Ice cubes (big, clear ones – they melt slower and look prettier)
Pro tip: Keep everything chilled in advance – warm ginger beer is a crime against holiday cheer!
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Fresh rosemary vs dried: That piney fragrance from fresh rosemary makes all the difference – dried just doesn’t release the same oils. No fresh? Try thyme as a last resort.
Ginger beer matters: Cheap ginger ale makes this too sweet. Look for craft brands with real ginger – the spicier, the better to balance the cranberry.
Vodka alternatives: Gin adds a fun herbal twist, or use bourbon for a deeper, cozier winter vibe (reduce to 1.5 oz since it’s stronger).
Can’t find good cranberry juice? Frozen concentrate (diluted properly) actually works great in a pinch – just strain any pulp!
How to Make a Cranberry Moscow Mule
Alright, let’s get mixing! Here’s exactly how I make my favorite holiday cocktail (the way that gets rave reviews every time):
- Chill your copper mug for at least 15 minutes in the freezer – that frosty exterior makes the first sip extra refreshing.
- Clap that rosemary! Hold your rosemary sprig between your palms and give it one firm clap. This releases the fragrant oils without making the drink bitter.
- Build the drink: Drop in 3-4 ice cubes, then pour vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice directly into the mug. Give it a quick stir with a bar spoon to combine.
- Top with ginger beer – pour slowly down the side of the mug to preserve those lovely bubbles. Stir just once more (gentle now – we’re not making a hurricane!).
- The grand finale: Tuck half the rosemary sprig into the drink and perch the other half artfully over the rim. Serve immediately while frosty cold.
The whole process takes less time than microwaving leftovers! Want to batch-make for a party? Combine everything except ginger beer and ice in a pitcher, then add those last-minute.
Pro Tips for the Best Cocktail
Copper mug magic: That classic Moscow Mule mug isn’t just pretty – it keeps drinks colder longer. No mug? A double-walled glass works too.
Temperature is everything: Ingredients should be fridge-cold, and never let it sit out more than 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish game: Twist the rosemary garnish slightly to release more aroma right before serving. Frozen cranberries make gorgeous edible “ice cubes” too!
Cranberry Moscow Mule Variations
Once you’ve mastered the original, try these fun twists that keep the holiday spirit going strong:
- Pomegranate sparkle: Swap half the cranberry juice for pomegranate juice and add a few arils to the garnish – it turns the drink a deeper red and adds festive crunch.
- Blood orange delight: Use blood orange juice instead of lime for a sweeter citrus note that pairs amazingly with rosemary (reduce to ¼ oz since it’s less tart).
- Mocktail magic: Replace vodka with 1 oz extra cranberry juice and 1 oz club soda for a bubbly non-alcoholic version kids and drivers can enjoy.
My personal favorite? A “Winter Spice” version with a cinnamon stick stirred in – it tastes like Christmas morning in a glass!
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
This cranberry Moscow mule shines brightest when served alongside rich holiday bites – think baked brie with honey, mini beef wellingtons, or even just a bowl of spiced nuts. The drink’s acidity cuts through fatty foods beautifully. No copper mug? A champagne flute shows off the gorgeous color (just reduce ice slightly). For New Year’s Eve, serve in crystal coupes with gold-rimmed edges – it turns every sip into a celebration!
Cranberry Moscow Mule FAQs
Can I batch-make these for a party?
Absolutely! Mix vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice ahead in a pitcher (no ice). Refrigerate up to 8 hours. Right before serving, pour over ice in individual mugs and top with ginger beer – this keeps the bubbles lively. Stir in fresh rosemary sprigs last.
How do I keep rosemary fresh for garnishes?
Store rosemary sprigs stem-down in a glass of water (like flowers) in the fridge, covered loosely with plastic. They’ll stay perky 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap slightly damp sprigs in paper towels before refrigerating in a zip-top bag.
What’s the best non-alcoholic version?
My favorite mocktail swaps vodka for extra cranberry juice and adds 2 oz club soda. Boost flavor with muddled mint leaves or a splash of grenadine. The ginger beer still gives that signature Moscow Mule kick without the booze!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on what’s in your glass (but remember, numbers can vary based on your exact ingredients – especially that ginger beer brand!): Each 8-oz Cranberry Moscow Mule clocks in around 180 calories with 15g sugar. It’s naturally fat-free and low sodium, making it a lighter festive option. For exact numbers, check your juice and ginger beer labels – some artisanal brands sneak in extra sweetness. Cheers to sipping smart this season!
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Amazing Cranberry Moscow Mule with Rosemary in 5 Minutes
- Total Time: 3 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule, this cocktail combines tart cranberry juice with spicy ginger beer and fresh rosemary for a festive drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Fill a copper mug or glass with ice cubes.
- Add vodka, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh cranberry juice for best flavor.
- Adjust ginger beer amount to taste.
- Chill all ingredients beforehand.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: American
