Thanksgiving’s honestly one of my favorite excuses to mix up fun drinks with family and friends.
I’m always hunting for new, tasty ways to celebrate together—there’s just something about a good cocktail that gets everyone talking.
This article is all about the best mule cocktails to make your Thanksgiving special.
Each drink puts a unique twist on the party, so you can actually enjoy and remember the holiday (well, depending on how many you have).
1) Classic Thanksgiving Mule with Cranberry Juice
I love serving a Classic Thanksgiving Mule with Cranberry Juice—it’s ridiculously easy and just looks so festive. The deep red color from the cranberry juice is basically made for the holiday table.
To make this mule, I just mix vodka, ginger beer, and cranberry juice over a mountain of ice. Sometimes, if I’m feeling fancy, I’ll squeeze in a little fresh lime for a bit more zing.
Garnishing with a few cranberries and a lime wedge? It’s a small thing, but it makes the drink pop. This little detail makes it almost too pretty to drink (almost).
The flavor’s crisp and refreshing—the ginger beer gives it a gentle spice, while the cranberry is tart enough to keep things from getting too sweet.
This cocktail is always a hit with my family and friends. If someone wants a non-alcoholic version, I just skip the vodka and up the ginger beer and cranberry juice.
I usually serve these in copper mugs because they keep everything ice-cold way longer. Plus, people always notice and ask for the recipe. It’s a fun conversation starter, honestly.
Sometimes I’ll toss in a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick for a little holiday twist—it just feels right.
If you want a simple, tasty cocktail for Thanksgiving, this classic mule totally fits the bill. The recipe’s easy to double (or triple) if you’re expecting a crowd.
2) Spiced Apple Cider Mule
I’m a huge fan of the Spiced Apple Cider Mule for Thanksgiving. It’s a cozy twist on the classic mule, and honestly, it just screams fall to me. The mix of apple cider and ginger beer is kind of irresistible.
For this one, I use apple cider, vodka, ginger beer, and a good sprinkle of cinnamon. Sometimes I’ll add a splash of lime juice to brighten it up. Everything goes in a copper mug with plenty of ice.
The apple cider gives the drink a sweet, crisp vibe. Ginger beer adds fizz and a little spice. It all comes together and reminds me of autumn leaves and cool nights.
I’ll rim the mug with cinnamon sugar if I’m feeling extra. A thin apple slice or cinnamon stick on top, and it suddenly looks way more festive.
If you want a non-alcoholic version, just swap the vodka for more apple cider or ginger beer. Still delicious, and everyone can join in.
The Spiced Apple Cider Mule always gets a few “oohs” and “aahs.” It’s a fun twist on a holiday favorite, and the combo of sweet apple and spicy ginger just works.
3) Ginger Pear Thanksgiving Mule
I like breaking out a Ginger Pear Thanksgiving Mule for holiday gatherings. This one brings together sweet pear juice, spicy ginger beer, and crisp vodka. It’s a refreshing spin on the classic mule.
I start by pouring vodka and fresh pear juice over ice, then top it with cold ginger beer. A squeeze of lemon makes it pop.
For garnish, I’ll use a pear slice and maybe a sprig of rosemary—makes it look festive and smells amazing. The rosemary touch adds a little holiday magic.
The pear flavor with ginger and lemon balances out the sweetness and spice. If you like fruity, gingery drinks, this one’s worth a try.
If I can’t find fresh pear juice, pear nectar works in a pinch. Fresh is better, but hey, sometimes you’ve gotta improvise. Either way, it’s light and easy to sip.
I always serve this mule in a copper mug packed with ice. Copper mugs keep it icy cold, which is honestly the best part. But if you don’t have one, any glass will do.
It’s simple, doesn’t need a bunch of ingredients, and I like how quick it is—even when I’m juggling a dozen other things in the kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser at my table every year.
4) Pumpkin Spice Moscow Mule
I love mixing up a Pumpkin Spice Moscow Mule for Thanksgiving. It’s perfect when I want a holiday twist on a classic drink. The pumpkin spice flavor makes it taste warm and cozy, but it’s still cool and refreshing.
I use vodka, ginger beer, and a bit of pumpkin puree. A splash of lime juice gives it brightness, and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice brings those familiar fall flavors.
I shake vodka, pumpkin puree, and lime juice with ice, then pour it into a copper mug with fresh ice. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
Garnish with a lime wedge and a little sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Sometimes I’ll throw in a cinnamon stick if I’m feeling extra festive.
The pumpkin spice and ginger beer combo is pretty unique. The warm spices blend with tangy lime and fizzy ginger—honestly, it’s hard not to love. It’s easy to make, but feels special at any Thanksgiving get-together.
If you’re bored of the usual pumpkin cocktails, this mule is a nice change. It’s not too sweet, not too strong, and the ingredients are simple enough that most folks will go for it.
Making a Pumpkin Spice Moscow Mule is one of my favorite ways to bring fall flavor into my glass. It’s quick, and people always seem impressed when I serve it up.
5) Maple Bourbon Mule
I love making a Maple Bourbon Mule for Thanksgiving gatherings. It combines the rich taste of bourbon with the sweet flavor of maple syrup. This drink is a twist on the classic mule and just feels right for fall.
To make this cocktail, I mix bourbon, fresh lime juice, and a splash of real maple syrup. Then I add ginger beer for fizz and a little kick. Lots of ice is a must.
The maple syrup gives the drink a smooth sweetness that works so well with bourbon. It’s not too strong or too sweet, so even people who aren’t bourbon fans usually like it. Fresh lime juice adds tartness and keeps the maple in check.
For garnish, I’ll go with a lime wheel or cinnamon stick—sometimes a thin apple slice if I have one. The cinnamon makes it feel extra special for the holidays.
This mule is easy to make, and you don’t need anything fancy. I can whip up a batch fast, which is a lifesaver when everyone’s thirsty. I’d say use good bourbon if you can—it really makes a difference.
If you’re in the mood to try something new this Thanksgiving, this mule is a fun pick. Maple and bourbon just belong on the autumn table, if you ask me. I always get a few recipe requests when I serve these up.
6) Cranberry Rosemary Mule
I love the flavor combo in a Cranberry Rosemary Mule. It’s fresh, a little tart, and that woody, herbal note from the rosemary just feels festive at my table.
For this cocktail, I start by muddling a few cranberries with a sprig of rosemary. These bring such bright color and a hint of earthiness to the drink.
Next, I add vodka and cranberry juice to my glass. Both are easy to find and help create that classic mule base with a twist.
I pour in some lime juice for a splash of zesty flavor. It blends right in with the tartness from the cranberries and makes the drink extra refreshing.
To finish, I top the mixture with ginger beer. The bubbles give it a fun fizz, and the ginger adds a spicy kick that works so well with rosemary.
I usually garnish with a few more cranberries and a rosemary sprig. The garnish looks beautiful and honestly smells amazing every time I take a sip.
I serve this drink over ice in a copper mug. The mug keeps the cocktail cold and gives it that classic look.
The Cranberry Rosemary Mule is perfect if you’re after something different but still simple to make. It gets lots of compliments from friends and family every year.
I think the mix of flavors and those pretty colors make this mule a must-try for Thanksgiving. Guests always notice the rosemary’s scent and the bright red of the cranberries.
If you want a cocktail that stands out but isn’t too complicated, this cranberry rosemary mix is a great choice.
7) Pomegranate Ginger Mule
I love how refreshing a Pomegranate Ginger Mule tastes at Thanksgiving. The mix of pomegranate juice and ginger beer gives this drink a nice balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
To make one, I start by pouring some ice into a copper mug. I add two ounces of vodka and one ounce of pomegranate juice.
Next, I squeeze in half a lime for a burst of citrus. Then I top it off with ginger beer, which adds a fizzy, slightly spicy kick.
I like to stir everything gently. For a festive touch, I garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and a few mint leaves.
The colors really stand out and make the drink look special for the season. The pomegranate juice brings a fresh, tart taste, while the ginger beer keeps things bright and lively.
I find this mule is perfect if you want something different from the classic cranberry drinks. You can tweak the sweetness by adding a splash of simple syrup if you like.
The copper mug keeps the drink cold longer, which is great for holiday parties. I always make sure to have enough mugs for everyone who wants to try one.
Whenever I serve this, my guests ask for seconds. It’s a fun, colorful twist on the traditional mule that fits right in with Thanksgiving.
If you haven’t tried the Pomegranate Ginger Mule yet, it might just become your new favorite for the holidays.
8) Cinnamon Vanilla Mule
I love how cozy and warm this Cinnamon Vanilla Mule feels. For me, it’s the perfect drink for Thanksgiving.
The mix of cinnamon and vanilla really makes it stand out from a regular mule. To make this drink, I first add vodka and ginger beer to a copper mug filled with ice.
I then add a splash of vanilla syrup for sweetness. I stir in a pinch of ground cinnamon to amp up the flavor.
A cinnamon stick is my favorite garnish for this cocktail. Sometimes, I also add a twist of orange peel for a fresh aroma that pairs well with the spice.
I think this mule is great for anyone who likes sweet and spiced drinks. The cinnamon brings warmth, while the vanilla adds a creamy touch.
If I want it a little sweeter, I use homemade simple syrup. Store-bought works too.
I always make sure to stir the drink well so the cinnamon doesn’t clump. My friends often ask for the recipe because it smells and tastes like the holidays.
It’s festive without being complicated. If you enjoy classic mules, I think you’ll like this twist.
The flavors are simple, but together they just feel special.
9) Sweet Potato Mule Cocktail
I love experimenting with classic cocktail recipes, and the Sweet Potato Mule is a new favorite of mine. This drink puts a fun twist on the usual mule by using sweet potato simple syrup.
It gives the cocktail a warm, earthy flavor that just feels right for Thanksgiving. To make this, I start by creating a sweet potato syrup.
I cook diced sweet potatoes with sugar and water until soft, then mash and strain them. This syrup is sweet, smooth, and bright orange—kind of hard to resist.
I pour vodka, sweet potato syrup, and fresh lime juice over ice in a copper mug. Then I top it off with ginger beer.
The ginger beer brings a zesty kick that goes well with the natural sweetness of the sweet potato. Sometimes I add a cinnamon stick or a thin slice of orange on top.
It not only looks cute but also gives the drink a little extra aroma. Guests are usually surprised at how much they enjoy this unique mule variation.
It’s easy to prep the syrup a few days ahead, so I don’t have to rush on Thanksgiving. I like to make a big batch to share because this mule is always a hit.
If you want a non-alcoholic version, just skip the vodka and add more ginger beer.
10) Chai-Spiced Mule
I love giving classic drinks a fun twist. My Chai-Spiced Mule brings warm and cozy flavors to the Thanksgiving table.
Chai tea blends perfectly with ginger beer and vodka for a festive taste. To make it, I start by brewing a strong cup of chai tea and letting it cool.
Then I add vodka, fresh lime juice, and a splash of simple syrup. I shake it with ice to blend the flavors.
I pour the mix over ice in a copper mug and top it with ginger beer. The ginger and chai spices mix together in a unique way.
The smell is inviting, and the taste is a mix of spicy and sweet. This cocktail is easy to adjust.
Sometimes, I add a cinnamon stick or a few whole cloves as garnish. They boost the chai flavor and look great in the glass.
When I want to make it non-alcoholic, I just skip the vodka. Chai tea and ginger beer taste great together on their own.
Guests always love the surprising twist of chai in a mule. It feels cozy and special—perfect for fall celebrations.
11) Cranberry Lime Mule
I love serving the Cranberry Lime Mule at Thanksgiving. It’s refreshing, tangy, and colorful.
The bright red from the cranberry juice always looks fantastic in a glass. For this drink, I mix vodka, ginger beer, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice.
I like to add a slice of lime and a few cranberries on top to make it look festive. Sometimes, I’ll use frozen cranberries instead of ice—just to keep things chilly and a bit more fun.
The cranberry and lime flavors work well with the spicy kick from ginger beer. It’s a good balance of sweet and tart.
I find that this mule isn’t too strong, so it’s easy for everyone to enjoy. Making the Cranberry Lime Mule is honestly pretty simple.
I grab a copper mug or any glass, fill it with ice (or cranberries), pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and ginger beer. Then I give it a gentle stir—nothing fancy.
This mule is quick to put together if I’m hosting a lot of people. Sometimes I’ll just set up a little drink station with all the ingredients and let guests make their own.
The Cranberry Lime Mule always gets compliments at my gatherings. The mix of flavors is just right for Thanksgiving, and the color makes it feel special.
If you’re looking for a drink that stands out, this one’s an easy choice.
12) Autumn Citrus Mule
When I want a mule with a zesty twist, I go for the Autumn Citrus Mule. This drink mixes the lively flavors of fresh citrus with the classic ginger kick of a mule.
It feels bright and refreshing—perfect for any Thanksgiving gathering. I start by squeezing some orange and lemon juice into my glass.
The citrus adds a sweet and tangy taste. I use vodka as my base, then top it off with spicy ginger beer.
A slice of orange and a sprig of rosemary make a great garnish. These simple touches add a fresh scent and a pop of color.
The rosemary also brings a hint of earthiness that I love in fall drinks. If I want extra zing, I add a dash of bitters.
It brings out the flavors and ties everything together. I keep the glass full of ice so the drink stays cold and crisp.
This mule is easy to make and looks beautiful on the table. The fresh citrus and herbs give it a festive feel.
I like that the Autumn Citrus Mule isn’t too sweet or too sour. It’s got just the right balance, and the ginger beer adds a nice fizz.
Every sip feels refreshing and reminds me of fall. If I’m in the mood, I sometimes add a touch of honey for a bit of smooth sweetness.
This drink is fun to customize. The flavors always feel just right for Thanksgiving.
13) Pear and Ginger Mule
I love the fresh, crisp taste of pears, especially during Thanksgiving. For this Pear and Ginger Mule, I start with pear juice.
The flavor pairs so well with spicy ginger beer. I add a shot of vodka and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
The lime brings out the sweet and tangy notes of the pear. Then I pour in the ginger beer, which gives the drink its signature fizz and a warm kick.
I usually serve this mule over ice in a copper mug. The mug makes it stay extra cold and refreshing.
I like to garnish it with a thin slice of pear and a small piece of candied ginger. This cocktail is easy to make but still feels special.
The mix of pear and ginger is unique without being overpowering. If I want it a bit sweeter, I add a tiny drizzle of honey.
It’s a great choice for guests who want something light and fruity. Each sip is crisp, a little sweet, and a bit spicy from the ginger.
I think it tastes just like fall in a cup.
14) Smoky Maple Mule
I love making a Smoky Maple Mule when I want something unique for Thanksgiving. This cocktail mixes the classic mule with a touch of smoky flavor and rich maple syrup.
To make it, I use vodka or bourbon for the base. I add a splash of maple syrup for sweetness.
Then, I squeeze in some fresh lime juice. I top it all off with spicy ginger beer.
For the smoky taste, I use a few drops of liquid smoke. Just a tiny bit really adds a new twist.
If you don’t have liquid smoke, a smoked salt rim works too. I always garnish this mule with a cinnamon stick or a thin apple slice.
Both make the drink festive and perfect for fall. The cinnamon adds warmth, while the apple brings a fresh note.
If I’m serving guests, I like to use copper mugs. They keep the drink cold and look extra special.
If you like maple, you’ll enjoy how it pairs with the ginger beer. The cocktail is easy to stir up, and the twist will surprise your friends.
Try adding a small piece of candied ginger for extra spice. Sometimes, I add a splash of apple cider to boost the fall flavors.
It blends well with the other ingredients and makes the drink taste even more seasonal. A Smoky Maple Mule is a fun way to upgrade your holiday cocktails.
It’s quick to make, and every sip reminds me of cozy autumn nights.
15) Nutmeg Orange Mule
I’m a sucker for drinks that have a little warmth and spice, so the Nutmeg Orange Mule is right up my alley for Thanksgiving.
It brings together the sweet, bright flavor of orange with the cozy, spicy hint of nutmeg.
Every sip just reminds me of autumn and those big holiday meals.
To make this mule, I squeeze fresh orange juice into a glass.
Then I pour in some vodka and ginger beer, give it a good stir, and finish with a dash of ground nutmeg on top.
The nutmeg gives a rich aroma and a unique twist.
If you want it a touch sweeter, I sometimes add a splash of simple syrup or honey.
A thin orange slice or a twist of peel looks great as a garnish—definitely makes the drink feel festive.
I always load up on ice to keep my mule super cold and fresh.
The cool cubes balance out the warmth from the nutmeg and the kick from the ginger beer.
This cocktail is light, bright, and not too strong, so it pairs with pretty much any Thanksgiving dish.
I like how the citrus wakes up my taste buds, and the nutmeg just makes it feel perfect for fall.
