Fresh and bright, this Lemonade Moscow Mule is a delicious twist on the classic vodka cocktail!
A crisp, refreshing flavor makes this the perfect summer cocktail idea that can easily transition through the rest of the year too.
This quick and easy recipe is one of my favorite Mule variations to make at home.
This post was originally published on September 18, 2020, and has now been updated with tips and tricks to make this Moscow Mule with lemonade perfectly every time.
Why This Recipe Works
Moscow Mules are some of the easiest cocktail recipes you can make. But there is also an endless list of variations you can make.
It’s super easy to change up the flavors. You can get elaborate with herb simple syrups or you can keep it classic.
But you can also make minor adjustments to create cocktails that are perfect for any occasion.
This Lemonade Mule keeps things pretty traditional but swaps in fresh lemon and lemonade to give it a bright, citrus kick.
If you like lemonade, you’ll love this Lemonade Mule! And you’d probably also love this Lemon Drop cocktail and my Blackberry Whisky Lemonade (this one is super popular!)
Ingredient Notes
Scroll down to the end of the post for a printable recipe card with full measurements and more detailed instructions.
You can make homemade lemonade (or even lavender lemonade!) but for cocktails, I generally use Simply Lemonade. It’s not too sweet and has that delicious lemon flavor which makes it a great base.
I use whatever vodka I have on hand. In this case, I’m using Beluga, but Tito’s is also a good option.
Adding some fresh lemon juice helps to amp up the flavor and make everything a little more vibrant.
You can’t have a Moscow mule without ginger beer.
Bitters bring out the lemon and ginger flavors. This ingredient is optional, but you won’t regret it.
Fresh mint makes a delicious garnish.
How to Make a Lemonade Moscow Mule
A Moscow Mule is the best when all of the ingredients are pre-chilled.
Start by adding ice to a copper Moscow Mule mug. Then add vodka, lemonade, and lemon juice.
If you have a spoon handy, give it a quick little spin around the mug.
Then top with ginger beer.
Usually, you use about 2 ounces of ginger beer, but you might add a little more or less based on taste preference and size of the mug.
The final touch is adding a few drops of your favorite bitters. Angostura Bitters are delicious and the classic choice.
But Bittermens has tons of flavored bitters that I love. The Elemakule Tiki Bitters adds another layer of flavor from warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
I used it in my We Rum This Punch recipe and I feel like it wouldn’t be the same without it.
It doesn’t really change the flavor of the cocktail but adds depth. If you don’t have bitters, it won’t be ruined by going without.
YUM. A mint garnish is not to be skipped.
I’m obsessed with fresh mint. When you bring the drink to your lips and that scent hits your nose…
Tips and Tricks
- Moscow mules taste best when all of the ingredients are chilled before hand – even the mug!
- Don’t skip the mint! Gently bruise the leaves to release the oils and aroma by clapping between your hands before adding to the drink.
- This is my favorite citrus squeezer! I use it for just about all of my cocktails.
- You don’t have to use a copper mug but it does make sipping this cocktail extra frosty and an overall delightful experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are a number of ginger beers on the market so the answer to which ginger beer is the best is up to you! I prefer Reed’s Ginger Beer (not the flavored variety, I like original or Extra Ginger flavors best). Other popular brands are Bundaburg, Fever Tree, and Brooklyn Crafted.
You always see me use the copper Moscow Mule mugs. They’re super cute. but they are more than cute!
The copper acts as a thermal conductor which means when you fill it with cold, it helps to keep it cold. Or if you fill it with hot, it helps to keep it hot.
When you sip a Moscow Mule out of a copper mug, you get an extra chilled sensation since the cocktail is cold as well as the mug. It’s SO refreshing!
Moscow Mule mugs also make a great gift idea. It’s something some people won’t buy for themselves, but I’ve never seen anyone not smile when they are served a cocktail in a mug.
Ginger Beer is not as sweet as ginger ale and depending on the brand, has a stronger ginger flavor. Ginger beer can have a bit of bite so some are stronger than others. Ginger ale lacks the punch that really sets this cocktail apart.
Are you a Mule fan? Will you try this Moscow Mule with lemonade? You should!
Sip a Lemonade Moscow Mule next time you want a refreshing citrus cocktail with a vodka kick.
Related Recipes
- A Blood Orange Moscow Mule is citrus perfection! Give it a try!
- You’ll love this fruity Strawberry Basil Margarita. It’s bright pink and SO tasty!
- You can’t go wrong with a classic Aperol Spritz! It has a bitter orange herbal flavor that is crave-worthy.
Or browse my cocktail collections: Vodka Recipes, Wine Cocktails, Fireball Cocktails, Cocktails with Bitters, Cocktails Made with Coke or 2-Ingredient Cocktails.
Lemonade Moscow Mule
Equipment
- Copper Moscow Mule Mug
- Bar spoon
Ingredients
- 2 oz. vodka
- 4 oz. Lemonade
- 1 oz. fresh lemon juice
- 2 oz. ginger beer
- 4 drops of Bitters
- mint for garnish
Instructions
- To a copper Moscow Mule mug, add ice, vodka, lemonade and lemon juice.
- Give a quick stir.
- Top with ginger beer.
- Add 4 drops of bitters.
- Garnish with mint that has been clapped between your hands to release the fragrance.
Notes
- Moscow mules taste best when all of the ingredients are chilled before hand – even the mug!
- Don’t skip the mint! Gently bruise the leaves to release the oils and aroma by clapping between your hands before adding to the drink.
- This is my favorite citrus squeezer! I use it for just about all of my cocktails.
- You don’t have to use a copper mug but it does make sipping this cocktail extra frosty and an overall delightful experience.
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