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This apple cider Moscow Mule is the perfect fall cocktail that puts a unique twist on the traditional Moscow Mule by adding fresh apple cider.
I love fall-inspired drinks - from a pear bourbon cocktail to an apple cider cocktail to an apple mojito.
A Moscow Mule is about as an easy of a cocktail to make as possible, consisting of vodka, lime juice and ginger beer. However we are in peak fall season right now and I'm about using all things apples.
During this time of year, I never go without having some apple cider in my fridge. So when thinking of ways to use it, I realized I already had some ginger beer and vodka, so why not try something different.
This apple cocktail is so tasty, you won't even realize you are drinking alcohol. There aren't many drinks out there that everyone will enjoy, but this happens to be one.
Why This Cocktail Works
- The combination of crisp apple cider with spicy ginger beer creates a warm, autumnal twist on the classic Moscow Mule. It's the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the season. And if you're looking for another version, try this cranberry Moscow Mule.
- Served in a traditional copper mug, this cocktail not only tastes great but also looks stunning. The copper mug keeps the drink cold and adds a touch of elegance to any occasion.
- With just a few ingredients, this drink can be whipped up in under 5 minutes.
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Ingredient Notes
- Apple Cider - Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for a rich, authentic flavor. The cloudier, the better, as it will have more of the apple’s natural sweetness and depth.
- Vodka - A good-quality vodka will make a noticeable difference. Choose a smooth, neutral vodka that complements the apple and ginger flavors without overpowering them.
- Lemon juice - Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be too acidic and lack the bright, citrusy notes that fresh lemon provides.
- Ginger beer - Opt for a spicy ginger beer to add a nice kick to the drink. The spicier the ginger beer, the more it will balance the sweetness of the apple cider.
Ingredient Swaps
While this cocktail is perfect as is, you can mix up some of the ingredients. Some variations include:
- While apple cider is the star, you can use apple juice, but it will be sweeter and less robust.
- Instead of vodka, you can try using a different spirit like gin or even bourbon for a unique flavor profile. Each spirit will bring its own character to the cocktail. Consider using a spiced or apple-flavored vodka for an extra layer of flavor as well. You can also try Irish whiskey to make an Irish Mule version.
- Instead of or in addition to lemon juice, try using lime or orange juice. This can bring a different citrusy note to the cocktail.
- If ginger beer is not your preference, you can substitute it with ginger ale for a milder ginger flavor. Alternatively, try using a flavored soda like apple-flavored soda or even tonic water for a different twist.
Step-by-Step Photos
Please note full ingredient list and instructions for this cocktail can be found in recipe card below.
Fill a cocktail shaker ¾ with ice, add apple cider, vodka,and lemon juice, then shake for 15 seconds until chilled.
Strain into a copper mug with crushed ice, top with ginger beer, and garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks.
FAQs
If you believe history, the Moscow Mule was created as a way to get rid of excess vodka and copper mugs. Even if it isn't true, I'm glad it was invented!
If you believe the stories, Moscow was used because of Americans associated vodka with Russia and mule was used because you get a kick of flavor from the ginger beer.
I'm of the opinion to always use quality vodka like Belvedere or Grey Goose. Bourbon or dark rum can be great alternatives to vodka as well, adding a warm, rich flavor that pairs well with the apple cider and ginger beer.
The main benefit of using copper mugs is temperature. The metal quickly takes to the icy temperature of the cocktail which creates a tasty chilled drink. You can buy copper mugs on Amazon.
Yes, you can scale up the ingredients to create a larger batch for a party. Mix the vodka, apple cider and elmon juice in advance, and then add ginger beer and ice just before serving to maintain the fizziness.
Types of Ginger Beer
Luckily for everyone, there is no shortage of options for ginger beers. However, which one to pick for this Moscow Mule recipe?
- Fever-Tree – Has a strong ginger flavor without being overpowering.
- Gosling’s – Nice balance of spice and sweetness.
- Bundaberg – The Australian ginger beer is great for Mules.
- Q Ginger Beer – Has some added carbonation.
Pro Tips/Recipe Notes
- To make it non-alcoholic, use club soda instead of vodka.
- While store-bought bottles can be quite convenient, they lack in flavor compared to the real thing. It really isn’t that much extra work to freshly squeeze the lemon and you’ll notice a difference in taste.
- Used crushed ice which will make the apple cocktail colder quicker.
- Add a cinnamon stick and then you can even use it as a straw.
- Consider rimming the glass with sugar, salt or even a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
Other Cocktail Recipes
If you’ve tried this apple cider Moscow Mule or any other recipe on Chisel & Fork, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below! You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube to see more tasty meals and anything else I'm up to.
Apple Cider Moscow Mule
Ingredients
- 2 oz apple cider
- 2 oz vodka
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 oz ginger beer
- sliced apples and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions
- Fill cocktail shaker with ice ¾ of the way. Add apple cider, vodka and lemon juice and shake until chilled, about 15 seconds. Strain into a mug, preferably copper, filled with crushed ice. Top with ginger beer. Garnish with sliced apples and cinnamon sticks.
Notes
- To make it non-alcoholic, use club soda instead of vodka.
- While store-bought bottles can be quite convenient, they lack in flavor compared to the real thing. It really isn’t that much extra work to freshly squeeze the lemon and you’ll notice a difference in taste.
- Used crushed ice which will make the apple cocktail colder quicker.
- Add a cinnamon stick and then you can even use it as a straw.
- Consider rimming the glass with sugar, salt or even a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
Chris says
Love it!