The Cranberry Bourbon Mule is a fun twist on the classic cocktail! It mixes tart cranberry juice, smooth bourbon, and fizzy ginger beer for a tasty drink.
This drink is perfect for parties or a cozy night in. I always love how the flavors mix together—it’s like a holiday hug in a glass! Cheers! 🥂
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bourbon: Traditional bourbon works best. However, if you prefer something lighter, try a blended whiskey. For a non-alcoholic twist, you can replace bourbon with a smoky tea like lapsang souchong!
Cranberry Juice: Opt for unsweetened cranberry juice for a tart kick. If it’s hard to find, blend cranberry cocktail juice with a splash of soda water for a lighter option.
Ginger Beer: A good quality ginger beer adds spice and fizz! For less sweetness, use a diet or less sweet version. If you have ginger ale on hand, that works too but will be milder.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the drink. Bottled lime juice is convenient but be careful with the flavor—fresh is always best!
How Do I Get the Best Mix of Flavors in My Mule?
Mixing the ingredients correctly is key to achieving that perfect balance. Follow these techniques:
- Start with the ice—filling the glass helps keep everything chilled.
- Pour the bourbon and juice in first, giving them a quick swirl to blend the flavors before adding the ginger beer.
- Top with ginger beer to maintain those fun bubbles, and don’t stir too hard to keep the fizz intact!
- Garnishes not only add visuals but also enhance aroma. Fresh thyme brings a nice herbal note and lime adds brightness.
How to Make a Cranberry Bourbon Mule
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 2 oz cranberry juice (preferably unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- Ice cubes
- Fresh thyme sprig (for garnish)
- Lime wedge (for garnish)
- Fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cranberry Bourbon Mule can be prepared in just 5 to 10 minutes! It’s a quick mix and serves up nicely, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass:
Start by filling a rocks glass or mule mug with a generous amount of ice cubes. The ice not only chills the drink but also keeps it nice and refreshing.
2. Mix the Liquids:
Next, pour in 2 ounces of bourbon, followed by 2 ounces of cranberry juice, and 1/2 ounce of fresh lime juice. These three will create a flavorful base for your cocktail.
3. Add the Fizz:
Top off your drink with 4 ounces of ginger beer, pouring slowly to keep it bubbly. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything, but be careful not to stir too vigorously—those bubbles add to the fun!
4. Garnish Your Drink:
Now for the fun part! Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme for that aromatic touch. Add a lime wedge on the rim for a pop of color and flavor.
5. Optional Festive Touch:
If you like, drop a few fresh cranberries into the glass for an added festive flair. They make the drink look beautiful!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, serve your Cranberry Bourbon Mule immediately. Sit back, sip, and enjoy the refreshing mix of flavors!
Can I Substitute the Bourbon?
Absolutely! While bourbon gives the cocktail its distinct flavor, you can use any whiskey you prefer. For a non-alcoholic option, consider using a spicy ginger beer with a splash of smoked tea for a similar flavor profile.
Can I Use Store-Bought Cranberry Juice?
Yes, store-bought cranberry juice works perfectly! Just opt for unsweetened or lightly sweetened varieties to control the sweetness. If you have fresh cranberries, you can muddle a few in the glass for an extra burst of flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Since this cocktail is best fresh, it’s not ideal to store leftovers. However, if you have extra mixture without the ginger beer, you can keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add ginger beer right before serving!
What’s the Best Way to Adjust the Sweetness?
If you want your Cranberry Bourbon Mule to be sweeter, simply add a touch of simple syrup or more cranberry juice. Conversely, if it’s too sweet, a little extra lime juice can help balance the flavors!
