Side Dish & Snacks

Cranberry Moscow Mule Recipe – Freshly Ingredients

Name: Cranberry Moscow Mule Recipe – Freshly Ingredients
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Ingredients: Crushed ice cubes; 2 ounces dark rum; 4 ounces cranberry juice cocktail; 4 ounces ginger beer; 1 fresh lime, halved; 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup; Fresh or frozen cranberries, for garnish; 1 sprig fresh rosemary

Charlotte Shapiro March 25, 2025

Servings: 1 Total Time: 5 mins

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Before we dive into the delightful world of the Cranberry Moscow Mule, let’s chat about pairings. This cocktail is refreshing on its own, but it shines even brighter when accompanied by some tasty nibbles.

Picture a sunny afternoon barbecue with grilled shrimp skewers, or perhaps a cozy evening with baked brie and crusty bread.

You could also complement it with some zesty appetizers like spicy buffalo wings or even a light cucumber salad. These pairings enhance the mule’s bright flavor profile and make the experience more enjoyable.

The Ingredients I Used

Let’s get personal for a moment. When I walked into my kitchen to concoct the ideal Cranberry Moscow Mule, I was armed with fresh ideas and a handful of vibrant ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 ounces dark rum (or vodka) – I love using dark rum for its depth and tiny hints of caramel flavor. Vodka is perfect if you’re looking for a lighter twist.
4 ounces cranberry juice cocktail – This adds tartness and sweetness. Opt for 100% cranberry juice if you want something less sweet.
4 ounces ginger beer – A must-have for that spicy kick!
1 fresh lime, halved – The zest of a lime makes this cocktail pop.
½ teaspoon maple syrup – This subtle sweetness softens the cocktail while enhancing its flavors.
Fresh or frozen cranberries – These make for a lovely garnish and add a touch of holiday cheer.
1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional) – If you want your drink to dazzle, add this fragrant touch.

Let’s get our hands dirty!

Ingredients List

2 ounces dark rum (or vodka, for a lighter option)
4 ounces cranberry juice cocktail
4 ounces ginger beer
1 fresh lime, halved
½ teaspoon maple syrup (adds a hint of natural sweetness)
Fresh or frozen cranberries, for garnish
1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional, for a fragrant touch)

How to Make a Cranberry Moscow Mule

This is where the magic happens. Ready? Let’s do this step by step!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Make sure you have everything you need on hand. Nothing’s worse than starting a recipe only to realize you’re missing key items. Gather your rum (or vodka), cranberry juice, ginger beer, lime, and maple syrup. Get a handful of berries for garnish, and don’t forget the rosemary if you’re feeling fancy.

Step 2: Prepare Your Copper Mug

I must say, a copper mug adds a classic touch to cocktails. They keep drinks cold and add to the presentation. Fill your copper mug with ice cubes until it’s about three-quarters full. Crushed ice works surprisingly well, but regular ice cubes are just fine.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Squeeze the juice from half a lime into the mug. Drop the lime half into the mug for good measure—this brings out even more flavor. Add the rum (or vodka, depending on your choice) next.

Then, pour in the cranberry juice cocktail and stir gently. Next, we’re adding the ginger beer—pour it slowly to maintain the fizz. Finally, add the maple syrup and stir again until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Garnish Your Cocktail

Here’s where we make it Instagram-worthy! Toss in a few cranberries and, if you’re feeling a bit extravagant, the sprig of rosemary. It adds a beautiful contrast and an aromatic element to the drink. Now step back and admire your handiwork.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Hand it over to your guest or enjoy it yourself! Just sit back, relax, and sip away. The burst of flavors in every sip is worth the effort you put into creating this masterpiece.

Recipe Notes

Dark Rum – This brings warmth and depth. If you’re experimenting, try spiced rum for an extra kick.
Cranberry Juice – Using 100% juice without added sugars keeps things healthier.
Ginger Beer – The spiciness and effervescence are crucial. Look for a quality brand for the best flavor.
Lime – Fresh is best! Bottled lime juice doesn’t have the same zing.
Maple Syrup – Just a bit sweetens everything up without being overly sugary. Honey could work, too.
Fresh Cranberries – These are more than just a garnish; they add visual appeal and a tart contrast.
Rosemary – A delightful accent. Play around with garnishes; mint could also be an option!

Recipe Variations

If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, try these variations!

Spicy Cranberry Moscow Mule – Add a slice or two of jalapeño to the mix for a fiery twist.
Frozen Cranberry Mule – Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy variation.
Orange Moscow Mule – Swap the cranberry juice with orange juice for a sunny alternative.
Cranberry Sage Mule – Add muddled sage leaves for an earthy flavor profile.
Pineapple Cranberry Mule – Introduce pineapple juice for a tropical take.
Non-Alcoholic Version – Skip the alcohol and double up on the cranberry juice and ginger beer for a refreshing mocktail.

Conclusion

Creating a Cranberry Moscow Mule is more than simply mixing ingredients; it is an adventure waiting to unfold. Each sip is like a delightful journey, bursting with flavor and a hint of nostalgia. Whether you’re sipping this on a summer patio or enjoying it with friends during the holidays, this drink never fails to impress.

As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I always advocate for making food and drinks that are fun, flavorful, and approachable. This cocktail checks all those boxes.

So next time life’s throwing a curveball, mix up a Cranberry Moscow Mule and take a moment to enjoy the little things. Cheers to using fresh ingredients, enjoying good company, and creating delightful memories, one cocktail at a time!

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Print Recipe

Cranberry Moscow Mule Recipe – Freshly Ingredients

Author: Charlotte Shapiro Cuisine: American Courses: Side Dish & Snacks

Prep Time 5 mins Total Time 5 mins

Servings: 1 Calories: 303 kcal

Description

My love for cocktails began years ago during a summer trip to the heart of New Orleans. The vibrant atmosphere, spicy food, and refreshing drinks sparked a journey of culinary exploration that led me right to the Cranberry Moscow Mule.

This drink is not your average cocktail. The blend of cranberry juice and ginger beer delivers a punchy taste that wakes up your senses, and it looks stunning in a copper mug, too.

Not only is this drink aesthetically pleasing, but it is also surprisingly easy to prepare. Every ingredient plays its part beautifully. The lime adds a citrus zip, while the cranberry juice brings a lovely tartness.

It’s not just a beverage; it’s a celebration in a cup! When I first tried this cocktail, I was smitten with its balance of flavor. And since then, I've been experimenting with the ingredients.

Ingredient

Crushed ice cubes

2 ounces dark rum (or vodka, for a lighter option)
4 ounces cranberry juice cocktail
4 ounces ginger beer
1 fresh lime, halved
¹⁄₂ tablespoon maple syrup (adds a hint of natural sweetness)
Fresh or frozen cranberries, for garnish
1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional, for a fragrant touch)