This simple Kentucky mule recipe has only three ingredients: bourbon, ginger beer and lime juice. It is quick, easy and makes a well balanced and enjoyable drink.
About the Recipe
This cocktail, which is a delicious twist on the classic Moscow mule, can easily be enjoyed year round and is suitable for any occasion. You can make this drink with any Kentucky bourbon that you have on hand. This cocktail is also similar to the Mint Julep, but has an addition of ginger beer.
I love this recipe because it's one of the easiest cocktails out there, and you can easily get the ingredients at your local grocery store.
Make it for a casual get together with friends or as a celebratory drink for a Kentucky Derby Party, for a special occasion, or an at home happy hour. You are sure to impress your friends and family with this delicious drink!
If you are looking for more bourbon recipes, check out our: New Year's Eve Honey Bourbon Bubbly Cocktail, Gooey Bourbon Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies or Bourbon and Thyme Peach Smash.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple - This cocktail is quick and easy to make with only a few simple ingredients. All you have to do is simply mix the ingredients in a copper mug with ice, garnish with mint and a lime wedge and you are ready to go!
Versatile - You can make a Kentucky mule any time of the year and for any occasion. It is also quite simple to customize the recipe to your liking by adjusting the ratios according to your personal taste.
Delicious - The flavors in this drink are definitely the best part! The smooth caramel flavor from the bourbon combined with the sweet and spicy ginger beer makes for a unique and flavorful cocktail. The fresh lime juice adds a bit of tangy twist and rounds out the flavors quite well!
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need for this bourbon mule:
- Bourbon: Use a high quality bourbon for the best flavor. We love using Bulleit bourbon, Maker's Mark, or Woodford Reserve.
- Lime: You will need fresh-squeezed lime juice and lime wedges for a garnish.
- Ginger beer: Choose a good ginger beer that is right for your personal taste preference.
- Mint: Use a fresh mint sprig as a garnish.
Directions
Let's make this bourbon cocktail together!
Step 1: In a copper mug, combine bourbon, lime juice and ginger beer and stir well.
Step 2: Add ice, a sprig of mint and a lime wedge. Serve and enjoy!
Expert Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips to make this easy cocktail:
Copper mug - Kentucky mules are traditionally served in copper mugs because they add an elegant touch and provide good insulation. Serving this cocktail in a copper mug is part of the Kentucky mule experience but isn’t necessary. A highball glass would be a great alternative.
Choose the right ginger beer - Ginger beer comes in a variety of levels of spiciness and sweetness. Be sure to taste test different brands to determine the flavor profile you enjoy the most.
Make it sweeter - Make this cocktail sweeter by adding a bit of simple syrup to the cocktail.
Kitchen Equipment
Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for this easy drink. You can find all of these products on Amazon.
Copper mug - Add a set of copper mugs to your home bar. You’ll be glad to have this classic cocktail accessory on hand!
Bar spoon - Use a bar spoon like this one to stir drinks.
Recipe Substitutions/Variations
Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this popular drink.
Ginger beer - If you do not have ginger beer on hand, you could substitute with ginger ale, ginger syrup, club soda, or seltzer water. The flavor will be altered a bit, but will still be delicious!
Bourbon - Feel free to use any type of whiskey that you prefer. Or, use tequila and make a Mexican mule!
Lime juice - Use lemon juice in place of the lime juice, if needed. The flavor will be a bit different, but it will still be a great cocktail!
What To Serve With
Here are some recipes to serve alongside this Kentucky mule cocktail recipe:
Pan Seared Scallops - These easy to make pan seared scallops with a beautiful golden brown sear will be your new favorite go-to seafood dish. They are simply seasoned with salt and pepper and get a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Simple Charcuterie Board - This simple charcuterie board is perfect for entertaining! You'll need a few cheeses, crackers, and some add ons.
Easy Spinach Stuffed Salmon - This easy Spinach Stuffed Salmon Recipe will be your new favorite weeknight meal! This recipe is so easy and super delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ginger beer is a non-alcoholic carbonated drink. It is made with ginger, sugar, water and yeast. It has a strong, spicy flavor and is often used as a mixer in cocktails.
Yes. You can replace the bourbon with vodka, tequila, Irish whiskey, dark rum, peach liqueur, apple cider, cranberry juice, or pineapple juice. There are a variety of different drink combinations in the “mule” family of cocktails and each one has its own unique name!
A copper mug is what a mule is traditionally served in but you certainly do not have to serve it in one. A highball glass would work just as well!
Other Recipes to Try
Kentucky Mule
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- ½ oz lime juice
- 3 oz ginger beer
- mint for serving
- lime wedge for serving
Instructions
- Combine bourbon, lime juice, and ginger beer in a copper mug. Stir well.
- Add ice, mint, and lime wedge and serve.
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