Pop your mugs into the freezer while you gather ingredients (10–15 minutes is perfect).

A frosty mug keeps your cranberry Moscow mule crisp and icy to the last sip.

Pro tip: If you’re short on time, fill the mug with ice water for 2–3 minutes, then dump it out before building the drink.

Roll the lime on the counter with your palm to loosen the juices.

Slice in half and juice enough for ½ oz per drink (about 1 tablespoon).

Cut a couple of wedges for garnish.

Pro tip: Fresh juice makes a big difference in any Moscow mule recipe—skip the bottled stuff if you can.

Add large, fresh ice cubes to the chilled mug—right up to the top.

Larger cubes melt slower, so your fall cranberry cocktail stays bold, not watered down.

Pro tip: Freeze a handful of fresh cranberries and toss them in with the ice. They look gorgeous and act like mini ice cubes.

Add 2 oz vodka to the mug.

Follow with 2 oz cranberry juice (100% juice for tart, cocktail blend for sweeter).

Add ½ oz fresh lime juice.

Give it a tiny swirl to marry the flavors.

Tilt the mug slightly and gently pour in 4–6 oz ginger beer (to taste).

Stop when the mug is nearly full—the fizz is part of the magic.

Pro tip: Open a fresh bottle or can. Flat ginger beer = flat holiday mule cocktail.

Use a bar spoon (or any long spoon) to stir from the bottom up 2–3 times.

You’re combining without knocking out the bubbles.

Pro tip: Over-stirring kills carbonation; think “gentle nudge,” not “whisk.”

Add a lime wedge and a few cranberries on top.

Optional: a tiny squeeze of lime over the surface brightens the first sip.

Serve immediately in those frosty copper mugs and enjoy your easy Moscow mule recipe.

In a large pitcher, combine 2 cups vodka, 2 cups cranberry juice, and ½ cup fresh lime juice.

Chill until guests arrive.

When ready to serve, fill each mug with ice, pour the mix halfway, then top each mug with chilled ginger beer.

Pro tip: Keep ginger beer out of the pitcher until serving so your thanksgiving mule drinks stay bubbly glass after glass—perfect for a fall Moscow mule or any holiday Moscow mule spread.