Apple Bourbon Mule Cocktail Recipe

I’m a big fan of cocktails that feel a little special but don’t require a ton of fuss. The Apple Bourbon Mule is one I keep coming back to—it’s got that crisp apple thing going on, plus the cozy depth of bourbon.

It’s honestly so easy to throw together, and the flavor just pops—fresh, smooth, and somehow perfectly balanced.

This riff on the classic mule keeps all that gingery zip from ginger beer but leans into fall with apple cider. The bourbon brings it all together, and the lime gives it a little zing.

It’s just as good for a quiet evening as it is for hanging out with friends, if you ask me.

You’ll get the rundown on what you need, plus step-by-step instructions that are actually easy to follow. I’ll also talk a bit about the flavors so you know what you’re getting into before you take a sip.

Apple Bourbon Mule Cocktail Recipe

I usually make this when I’m craving something crisp and just a touch sweet, but still super simple to pull off.

The combo of bourbon, apple, and ginger beer is surprisingly balanced—kind of perfect for a chill night or a casual get-together.

Equipment

I don’t overcomplicate things with tools, but I do like to have the basics handy.

• Copper mug or a sturdy glass (for serving)
• Jigger (for measuring spirits)
• Bar spoon (for gentle stirring)
• Cutting board (for slicing garnish)
• Paring knife (for apple slices or lime wedges)
• Ice scoop or, honestly, just clean hands (for adding ice)

A copper mug just makes it feel colder and a little more festive, in my opinion. The jigger? Keeps me from accidentally making it too strong (or too weak).

Ingredients

Fresh, good-quality stuff really makes a difference here.

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz apple cider (unsweetened)
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• 4 oz ginger beer (chilled)
• Ice cubes (enough to fill the mug)
• Apple slices (for garnish)
• Lime wedge (optional garnish)

I always go for fresh apple cider that isn’t loaded with sugar. And a spicy ginger beer—not the overly sweet kind—makes the whole thing sing.

Instructions

I tend to stick with these steps just to keep things consistent.

• Fill your copper mug or glass with ice cubes.
• Pour in bourbon, apple cider, and lime juice.
• Give it a gentle stir with a bar spoon.
• Top with ginger beer.
• Stir again, but just barely, so you don’t kill the bubbles.
• Garnish with an apple slice and maybe a lime wedge if you’re feeling it.

I never shake this drink—learned that the hard way. Ginger beer gets way too foamy if you do.

Stirring is plenty to blend everything without making it go flat.

Notes

I think this cocktail really shines with a smooth bourbon that’s got those vanilla or caramel vibes. It plays so nicely with the tart apple cider and a little heat from the ginger beer.

If you want more apple flavor, just bump the cider up to 1.5 oz and pull back a bit on the ginger beer. Not into sweet drinks? Grab a dry ginger beer and use fresh-pressed cider.

Serving it in a chilled mug or glass keeps it extra refreshing. And sometimes I’ll drop in a cinnamon stick, especially if it’s chilly out—it just smells amazing.

Tasting Notes

So, when I take my first sip, the crisp apple flavor pops out right away. It’s fresh and a bit sweet—not too much, though.

Then the bourbon sort of sneaks in with this warm, smooth taste. It doesn’t overpower anything, just hangs out in the background.

The ginger beer brings in a gentle spice that tingles on my tongue. Honestly, it keeps the sweetness from getting out of hand and makes the drink pretty refreshing.

I really like how the bubbles make every sip feel light. There’s something about that fizz that just works.

Before I even taste it, I can smell the apple and bourbon mixing together. The scent is inviting—makes me want to go back for another sip, honestly.

The finish? It’s clean, with a mild ginger heat that lingers just for a moment. I find it easy to drink, and it never feels heavy.

If I let the ice melt a bit, the flavors mellow out. It’s less bold, but you still get that nice mix of sweet apple, warm bourbon, and a little spicy ginger.