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Cranberry Mule / Christmas Mule Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Cranberry Mule / Christmas Mule Recipe

I recently made this Cranberry Mule / Christmas Mule recipe at home, and let me tell you—it instantly became my favorite holiday drink! The combination of tart cranberry, zesty lime, and spicy ginger beer creates the perfect festive cocktail that tastes like Christmas in a glass.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz vodka – The base of the cocktail. Choose a smooth vodka that doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
  • 2 oz cranberry juice unsweetened or cocktail style – Adds that gorgeous ruby-red color and a festive tartness.
  • ½ oz fresh lime juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice gives a bright citrus kick that balances the sweetness.
  • 4 oz ginger beer – Brings the signature mule fizz and a spicy warmth that pairs beautifully with cranberry.
  • Ice crushed or cubed – Keeps the drink perfectly chilled and crisp.
  • Garnish: 5–8 frozen cranberries or fresh + 1 lime wedge + 1 rosemary sprig – Adds a festive, aromatic touch and beautiful presentation.

Method
 

  1. Start by filling a chilled copper mug or glass about three-quarters full with ice. The colder the mug, the better—it keeps your drink crisp and refreshing.
  2. Pour in the vodka and cranberry juice, followed by the freshly squeezed lime juice. Stir gently to blend the flavors evenly.
  3. Top off your mug with ginger beer. Give it a slow stir to combine—don’t overmix or you’ll lose the bubbles. Garnish with a handful of cranberries, a lime wedge, and a sprig of rosemary. The aroma of rosemary makes the drink feel extra festive!

Notes

  • Always use fresh lime juice—it makes a world of difference in taste.
  • Chill the ginger beer before using it so your drink stays fizzier longer.
  • Use frozen cranberries instead of fresh—they keep the drink cold and look beautiful floating in the glass.
  • Choose a strong ginger beer with a nice bite—it balances the sweetness of cranberry juice perfectly.
  • When serving a crowd, mix the base (vodka, cranberry, lime) ahead of time in a pitcher, then add the ginger beer right before serving to keep it fizzy.