Aperol Apple Cider Mule Cocktail Recipe

I love mixing drinks that feel fresh and a little unexpected. This Aperol Apple Cider Mule brings together crisp apple cider, the bright citrus of Aperol, and the spicy kick of ginger beer.

It’s a simple, refreshing cocktail you can throw together in just a few minutes. You only need a handful of ingredients—nothing wild or fancy.

The flavors really play off each other—tart and sweet from the cider, that bitter, citrusy thing from Aperol, and a warm ginger spice. I usually serve it over ice in a copper mug, but honestly, whatever glass you have handy will do.

No need for any special bar tools or impossible-to-find bottles. If you’re into classic Moscow Mules but want something with a little more autumn in the mix, this is a fun twist that still feels light and easy.

Aperol Apple Cider Mule Cocktail Recipe

I tend to make this when I’m craving something crisp, a bit bitter, and really refreshing. Aperol, apple cider, and ginger beer come together for a fall-inspired riff on the Moscow Mule.

The combo of citrus, spice, and apple just works—honestly, it’s good any time of year.

Equipment

• Copper mug or any sturdy cocktail glass
• Jigger for measuring
• Bar spoon for stirring
• Cutting board and knife for slicing fruit
• Citrus juicer (manual or handheld)
• Ice scoop or just a big spoon
• Small plate for garnishes

I like a copper mug because it keeps everything icy longer. A jigger’s just handy for getting the mix right, and a bar spoon helps keep the bubbles in when you stir.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz Aperol
• 2 oz apple cider
• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
• 3–4 oz ginger beer (or ginger ale if you want it milder)
• Ice cubes
• Apple slices for garnish
• Cinnamon stick for garnish
• Optional: pinch of ground cinnamon on top

Fresh lime juice really brightens things up and keeps it from getting too sweet. Ginger beer brings the heat, Aperol gives that bitter orange note, and apple cider makes it feel cozy.

The cinnamon stick? It just makes the whole thing smell amazing.

Instructions

• Fill your copper mug with ice.
• Pour in vodka, Aperol, apple cider, and lime juice.
• Stir gently with a bar spoon for 5–10 seconds.
• Top with ginger beer.
• Stir once more, just to bring it all together.
• Garnish with apple slices and a cinnamon stick.
• Serve right away, while it’s still cold and fizzy.

I always add the ginger beer at the end to keep the bubbles lively. Stirring too hard will make it go flat, so just a gentle swirl does the trick.

The garnish isn’t strictly necessary, but it’s worth it for the aroma alone.

Notes

• Go with ginger beer for a bolder, spicier kick, or ginger ale if you want it sweeter.
• If you’re not big on bitterness, try using just 0.75 oz of Aperol and a little more apple cider.
• The cinnamon stick works as a stirrer and adds a bit of spice as you sip.
• Copper mugs are classic, but don’t stress—any glass will work.
• For a non-alcoholic version, just skip the vodka and Aperol, and add extra ginger beer and cider.

I think this drink really shines when everything’s already chilled, so I keep my cider and ginger beer in the fridge. That way, you don’t need to load up on ice, and the flavors stay nice and punchy.

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the crisp apple cider jumps out at me. There’s a gentle sweetness—fresh, light, nothing overpowering.

Aperol sneaks in with just enough bitterness to keep things interesting. It’s subtle, but it definitely helps balance out the whole thing.

The ginger beer brings this warm spice that hangs around at the back of my throat. It gives the drink a little kick, but not in an aggressive way.

Honestly, I love how the bubbles seem to lift the other flavors. It’s lively, almost playful.

This cocktail just feels right for cooler months. Apple and ginger together? Total autumn vibes.

The Aperol, though, keeps it from getting too heavy or syrupy. It’s a nice touch.

Color-wise, it’s this soft orange with a bit of haze from the cider. I think it looks especially inviting in a copper mug—or, honestly, even a clear glass.

The aroma is a fun mix of apple, citrus, and that gingery spice. I catch it before I even take a sip, which kind of sets the mood.

There’s something about the way sweet, bitter, and spicy all mix together here. Each sip is refreshing, but there’s enough depth to keep it interesting.