This easy Citrus Moscow Mule is an amazing cocktail made with fresh fruit and ginger beer. It’s the perfect cocktail for hot summer days!

Citrus Moscow Mule easy brunch cocktail for Easter


 

This simple cocktail is full of bright, fresh citrus flavors. Grapefruit juice, lime juice and orange liquor give this citrus variation of a Moscow Mule an amazing flavor. It’s an easy cocktail for spring or summer and the perfect addition to any party.

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How to Mix Your Cocktail:

  1. Squeeze your lime and grapefruit juice into the mug.
  2. Add desired ice.
  3. Add orange liqueur, vodka, and ginger beer.
  4. Stir to mix.
  5. Enjoy!

Why Do You Drink A Moscow Mule Out Of A Copper Mug?

Other than the fact that copper mugs are stylish and pretty, there is an actual reason why people started drinking their Moscow Mules out of them. Because the copper becomes very cold when you add the cold ginger beer, it acts as an insulator. It will keep the drink cold, refreshing, and the perfect temperature to enjoy. 

Think about how warm our hands are. When you grab a mug and start sipping, it can warm up the liquid in the glass sooner than it normally would. Using copper prevents that from happening, so you don’t have to worry about your drink becoming watered down. Most copper mugs will have a handle so you can prevent your hand from becoming too cold too. 

Another upside to drinking out of a copper mug is that when your ginger beer hits the mug, it will begin to fizz a little more. This is fantastic because it gives you a drink that is perfectly fizzy and delicious. 

Granted, it’s not required that you have to drink this cocktail out of a copper mug. But as you can see, it’s going to be a better experience overall when you do. 

Citrus Moscow Mule perfect brunch cocktail

What Is The Difference Between Ginger Beer And Ginger Ale?

In case you don’t realize, ginger beer is a non-alcoholic drink very similar to ginger ale. I know that may surprise many of you because it has the word beer in its name, but so does root beer! 

The main difference between ginger beer and ginger ale is how much more robust the ginger flavor is in the beer. That is why it is perfect when mixing a Moscow Mule. 

Ginger beer is a non-fermented drink, and it has been carbonated instead. Back in the day, they used to ferment it, and there was more alcohol content. Nowadays, that doesn’t happen, and you can even let your kiddos drink it by itself if you wanted to without worry. Some drink it to deal with stomach upset because the ginger is so settling.

Where Do I Find Ginger Beer In The Store?

While every store is arranged differently, I have most often found ginger beer near the club soda and other carbonated drinks. You won’t find it with the actual alcoholic beverages in most cases because it is considered a soft drink, not an actual beer.

Citrus Moscow Mule in a copper mug

What Kind Of Ginger Beer Do I Need To Use?

There are several types of ginger beer out there, and you can try any of them. What we love and used to make our citrus Moscow Mule is the Fever-Tree Ginger Beer. We just enjoy the way the ginger tastes and the overall flavor of the ginger beer. 

Don’t be afraid to try out various ginger beers to see what you like best. Bottoms Up Ginger Beer is a great option if you prefer your drinks with a little less carbonation. It doesn’t have as strong of a ginger flavor either.

Can I Use Ginger Ale In This Moscow Mule Recipe?

Yes, actually, you can use ginger ale if you wanted to. We don’t prefer it with ginger ale because it doesn’t have that strong spicy flavor we love, but it’s a very valid option. 

If you can’t find ginger beer at your local market or you happen to find a killer deal on ginger ale, go ahead and use it. It won’t hurt anything, and it will still taste good. It just won’t have that intense ginger flavor, and that is more than fine. 

When you think of the name Moscow Mule, you may be wondering where in the world they came up with that name. Well, due to the “kick” of flavor that it provides, it is reminiscent of a mule! Because you are hit with a strong ginger flavor when you take a sip. If you aren’t a huge fan of ginger, swapping for ginger ale would be a great idea.

Citrus Moscow Mule is twist on a classic cocktail

Can I Use Any Other Alcohol Besides Vodka?

Yes, absolutely, you can try out some other alcohols! Keep in mind when you change the alcohol, you aren’t drinking a Moscow Mule anymore, but you can come up with some pretty amazing drinks. Here are some ideas for you to consider trying out:

  • Gin – If you love the flavor of Gin, you’ll find it goes well with the ginger beer. The name would be called a Gin Gin Mule. It often has some simple syrup in it, too, so you might consider adding a splash. 
  • Rum – Whether rum is your drink of choice or you are just feeling playful, switch out the vodka with the same amount of your favorite rum. Many people will add a few sprigs of fresh mint leaves to the drink to make it extra refreshing. This is known as a Cuban Mule. Or, if you want to get even fancier, use spiced rum, and you would have a Dark ‘n Stormy cocktail instead. Yum!
  • Bourbon – You may fall in love with the flavor combination of the ginger beer with the bourbon. It’s so incredible and makes for a terrific summer drink. Traditionally, the cocktail is known as a Kentucky Mule, and it’s amazing!
  • Tequila – If drinking tequila is your jam, then you will be glad to know you can simply substitute it for the vodka in this Moscow Mule drink. The name of the new drink would be called a Tequila Mule. Serve it with jalapeno slices to add an even kick of flavor, and everyone will rave about it. 

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Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Citrus Moscow Mule

A refreshing twist on a classic drink. This Citrus Moscow Mule perfect to kick off summer!
Print Recipe
5 from 2 votes

Ingredients

  • 4 ounces Ginger beer
  • 1.5 ounces Vodka
  • 1 ounce Orange liqueur
  • 0.5 ounce Lime juice, fresh squeezed
  • 0.5 ounce Grapefruit juice, fresh squeezed
  • Ice
  • Lime and grapefruit wedges for garnish

Instructions

  • Squeeze your lime and grapefruit juice into the mug.
  • Add desired ice.
  • Add orange liqueur, vodka, and ginger beer.
  • Stir to mix.
  • Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 214kcal, Carbohydrates: 16g, Sodium: 7mg, Sugar: 15g, Vitamin C: 8.1mg
Nutrition Disclaimer: We are not certified nutritionists. Nutrition facts are an estimate and are provided as a courtesy. They are generated by an online API which recognizes ingredient names and amounts and makes calculations based on the serving size. Results may vary.
Author: Kat Jeter & Melinda Caldwell
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Handwritten signature for Kat & Melinda