Spiced Cranberry Mule

The crisp chill of winter calls for drinks that are just as vibrant and warming as the season itself, and the spiced cranberry mule fits the bill perfectly. With its lively mix of tart cranberries, warming spices, and fizzy ginger beer, this cocktail brings festive cheer to any gathering. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire or hosting a holiday get-together, it’s a drink that instantly feels celebratory.

What makes this holiday cranberry mule so irresistible is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients or complicated techniques—just a few pantry staples, a shaker, and a glass. It’s one of those easy mixed drinks that feel special, but don’t require hours in the kitchen, making it perfect for last-minute parties or quiet evenings when you want something delicious without fuss.

Beyond its convenience, this cocktail has layers of flavor that keep every sip interesting. The sweetness of cranberry juice balances the zing of ginger beer, while a touch of cinnamon or cloves adds that winter spice magic. It’s bright and refreshing, yet comforting, a drink that feels both modern and timeless. For those who love holiday cocktails that are visually stunning, the deep red of the cranberries and the sparkling fizz make it almost too pretty to sip—almost.

This festive cranberry mule is also versatile enough to tweak to your taste. Add a splash of orange liqueur for extra warmth, a twist of fresh citrus for brightness, or even a dash of bitters for complexity. It’s one of those easy drinks to make that you can tailor to your personal style, whether you’re crafting a signature cocktail for a party or just treating yourself after a long week.

Why You’ll Love It

• Bursting with festive flavor – Each sip combines tart cranberries, zesty ginger, and a hint of warming spices, making it the ultimate holiday cocktail for cozy nights or parties.
• Effortless to make – This is one of those easy drinks to make that looks and tastes like you spent hours crafting it, but you’ll have it ready in minutes.
• Perfect for entertaining – Serve it in a copper mug or a pretty glass, garnish with fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary, and watch your guests’ eyes light up.
• Versatile and customizable – Whether you prefer it stronger, sweeter, or with extra spice, this festive cranberry mule can easily be adjusted to match your taste.
• A winter cocktail that feels special – It’s refreshing, warming, and visually stunning, making it a standout choice for any holiday gathering or quiet evening in.

Ingredient List

For the Mule

• 2 oz vodka
• 3 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
• 1/2 oz lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 4 oz ginger beer
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of ground cloves
• Ice cubes

For Garnish

• Fresh cranberries
• Lime wedges
• Sprig of rosemary

Ingredient Notes

• Vodka – I always use a smooth, clean-tasting vodka like Tito’s; it blends beautifully without overpowering the cranberry flavor.
• Cranberry juice – Don’t skip the unsweetened or lightly sweetened kind! It keeps the mule perfectly tart and balances the ginger beer.
• Ginger beer – Use a good quality, spicy ginger beer; it really makes this festive cranberry mule pop.
• Spices – Just a pinch of cinnamon and cloves adds that cozy winter cocktail vibe—don’t skip them!
• Fresh cranberries & rosemary – They aren’t just pretty; they add aroma and a little extra festive flair.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker – Perfect for mixing the cranberry juice, vodka, lime, and spices evenly. I love my stainless steel shaker; it’s sturdy and easy to clean.
• Measuring jigger – Keeps your pours precise so every mule tastes balanced. I always use a double-sided jigger for quick measuring.
• Muddler or spoon – To gently press spices or cranberries if you want extra flavor. A wooden muddler works best for me.
• Copper mugs or glasses – Classic for serving a mule and keeps the drink icy cold longer. I’m partial to thick copper mugs; they feel so festive!
• Citrus juicer – Makes squeezing limes effortless. A handheld juicer does the trick and saves time.

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

• Measure out 2 oz of vodka, 3 oz cranberry juice, and 1/2 oz fresh lime juice.
• Gather 1/4 tsp cinnamon, a pinch of cloves, ice cubes, and your garnishes (fresh cranberries, lime wedges, and rosemary).
  Pro Tip: Freshly squeezed lime juice makes a huge difference in brightness—it’s worth the extra squeeze!

2. Mix the Base

• In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, cinnamon, and cloves.
• Fill the shaker halfway with ice.
• Close the shaker and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds to chill and blend everything evenly.
  Pro Tip: Shake firmly but not too hard; you want the spices to disperse without bruising the ginger beer later.

3. Prepare the Glasses

• Fill your mugs or glasses with ice cubes, leaving enough room for the ginger beer.
• Optional: Rub a lime wedge around the rim for extra flavor and a festive touch.

4. Assemble the Mule

• Strain the shaken mixture into your prepared glass over ice.
• Top with 4 oz of ginger beer, pouring slowly to keep the fizz lively.
  Pro Tip: Pour ginger beer gently over the back of a spoon if you want to preserve the bubbles and keep it extra fizzy.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Add fresh cranberries, a lime wedge, and a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
• Give it a gentle stir with a straw or spoon to combine flavors.
• Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.

Pro Tip: For an extra festive look, freeze cranberries ahead of time; they’ll keep your drink cold without watering it down.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Always use fresh lime juice—it brightens the flavors far more than bottled juice.
• Chill your glasses ahead of time for an extra cold, refreshing mule.
• Shake the cranberry-vodka-spice mixture first, then add ginger beer at the end to keep it fizzy.
• Don’t skip the spices; even a small pinch of cinnamon and cloves transforms it into a true winter cocktail.
• Frozen cranberries aren’t just decorative—they help keep your drink icy without diluting it.
• Adjust the sweetness by choosing unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice to match your taste.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Vodka substitute: Use gin or rum for a slightly different twist on this festive cranberry mule.
• Cranberry juice: Pomegranate juice works in a pinch and adds a rich, tangy flavor.
• Ginger beer substitute: Ginger ale can be used if you prefer a milder, less spicy drink.
• Spices: Swap cinnamon and cloves for nutmeg or allspice for a slightly different wintery vibe.
• Extra flavor: Add a splash of orange liqueur or cranberry simple syrup to make it sweeter and more festive.
• Mocktail version: Replace vodka with sparkling water or ginger beer only for a refreshing alcohol-free winter cocktail.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving this spiced cranberry mule in a copper mug with a sprig of rosemary—it instantly feels festive and cozy.
• Pair it with holiday appetizers like cheese boards or roasted nuts; the tartness of the cranberries balances rich, savory bites beautifully.
• Serve alongside a winter dessert, like gingerbread cookies or spiced cake, for a cheerful after-dinner treat.
• For brunch gatherings, this cocktail is amazing with breakfast favorites like waffles or cinnamon rolls—it adds a lively, refreshing twist.
• Make a batch for a holiday party and let guests garnish their own drinks with cranberries and lime wedges—it’s interactive and fun!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Pre-mixed cranberry-vodka base can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; add ginger beer and ice just before serving.
• Leftover drinks should be discarded rather than reheated; this cocktail is best served fresh and fizzy.
• If prepping for a crowd, you can make the spiced juice and vodka mixture ahead and keep it chilled, then assemble individual mules on demand.
• Frozen cranberries can be stored in a freezer-safe bag for months and used as needed to keep drinks cold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this spiced cranberry mule ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and spices up to 24 hours in advance. Just add the ginger beer and ice right before serving to keep it fizzy.

Can I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?

Absolutely! Simply skip the vodka and use extra ginger beer or sparkling water. It’s still festive and full of flavor—a perfect winter cocktail for everyone.

What type of ginger beer works best?

A bold, spicy ginger beer really makes the flavors pop. Avoid overly sweet, mild versions—they can make the drink taste flat.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, you can use unsweetened, lightly sweetened, or even homemade cranberry juice. Add a splash of simple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.

Can I use other spirits instead of vodka?

Definitely! Gin or light rum are great alternatives and give the cocktail a slightly different twist while keeping it delicious.

How should I garnish for the best presentation?

Fresh cranberries, lime wedges, and a sprig of rosemary not only look beautiful but also add a lovely aroma. Frozen cranberries are a fun touch that keeps the drink extra cold.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!