Print

Cranberry Moscow Mule Cocktail

Cranberry Moscow Mule Cocktail - featured image

This festive Cranberry Moscow Mule Cocktail combines homemade cranberry syrup, vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime for a bright, tangy holiday drink. It’s quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for parties or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (whole, not dried)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Zest of 1 orange (optional)
  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz cranberry syrup (from above)
  • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
  • 4 oz ginger beer
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh cranberries (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges or wheels (for garnish)
  • Fresh mint sprigs (optional, for garnish)
  • Rosemary sprig (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the Cranberry Syrup: Combine cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest (if using) in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until cranberries pop and break down (about 5 minutes). Continue to simmer until thickened and most cranberries have burst (another 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl or jar, pressing gently to extract all liquid. Discard solids. Cool syrup completely before using.
  3. Prepare the Cocktail: Fill a copper mug or tumbler with ice cubes. Pour in vodka, cranberry syrup, and fresh lime juice.
  4. Top with ginger beer. Pour gently to keep it fizzy.
  5. Stir with a bar spoon until well mixed (about 10 seconds).
  6. Garnish and Serve: Add fresh cranberries and a lime wedge or wheel. Top with a sprig of mint or rosemary. Serve immediately while icy cold.

Notes

For best results, use fresh lime juice and chill your mugs before serving. Make the cranberry syrup ahead for easy party prep. Always add ginger beer last to preserve fizz. For a pitcher, multiply ingredients and mix just before serving. Syrup keeps in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry, Moscow mule, cocktail, holiday, festive, ginger beer, vodka, party drink, Christmas, Thanksgiving, easy cocktail, cranberry syrup