Candy Cane Peppermint Mule Cocktail Recipe

When the holidays show up, I can’t help but want to give classic drinks a bit of a seasonal spin. A Moscow Mule already has that crisp, refreshing vibe, but if you add peppermint and candy cane? Suddenly it’s basically Christmas in a cup.

This Candy Cane Peppermint Mule is my go-to for a simple holiday cocktail that’s both classic and festive.

Honestly, I love how this one looks just as much as how it tastes. The crushed candy cane rim is fun, the peppermint gives it a cool kick, and the whole thing feels special without being fussy.

It’s one of those drinks that’s easy to whip up but still manages to stand out at a party.

If you want a peppermint mule that’s festive, refreshing, and just kind of perfect for the season, this is it. It’s a great way to dress up a drink you already like, and it always gets a few compliments.

Candy Cane Peppermint Mule Cocktail Recipe

I usually make this when I’m craving something refreshing but still want a holiday twist. The combo of peppermint, lime, and ginger is super crisp, and the candy canes with fresh mint on top make it look extra cheery.

Equipment

• Copper mug – Seriously, it keeps the drink colder. I always reach for one if I have it.
• Cocktail shaker – Helps mix the peppermint vodka, schnapps, and juices together.
• Bar spoon – I use this to stir gently so the ginger beer doesn’t lose its fizz.
• Measuring jigger – For getting the vodka, schnapps, and lime juice just right.
• Muddler – I like muddling the mint to get those fresh oils going.
• Small plate or bowl – Handy for holding the crushed candy canes for the rim.
• Ice scoop – Makes adding ice less messy.
• Knife and cutting board – For slicing up lime wedges or prepping mint sprigs.

Having the right tools just makes things easier and keeps the drink tasting balanced.

Ingredients

• 2 oz peppermint vodka
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz lime juice (fresh is best, if you ask me)
• 2 oz cranberry juice
• 4 oz ginger beer (ginger ale works if you like it sweeter)
• 1 small candy cane (whole for garnish)
• 1 tbsp crushed candy canes (for the rim)
• Fresh mint leaves (about 4–5)
• Fresh cranberries (optional, but festive)
• Ice cubes

I always go for real lime juice instead of the bottled stuff—it just tastes brighter. The crushed candy cane rim is sweet and looks super cute.

Instructions

• Rim your copper mug with lime juice, then dip it into the crushed candy canes.
• Fill the mug up with ice cubes.
• In a shaker, mix together the peppermint vodka, peppermint schnapps, lime juice, and cranberry juice.
• Shake it lightly, then pour it into your mug.
• Top with ginger beer or ginger ale.
• Stir gently with your bar spoon.
• Garnish with a whole candy cane, a few mint leaves, and some cranberries if you want.

I always stir at the end instead of shaking after the ginger beer goes in—otherwise, you lose all those nice bubbles.

Notes

Copper mugs really do keep things colder. If you don’t have one, no big deal—a regular glass is fine, but you’ll miss that icy chill.

Sometimes I swap ginger beer for ginger ale if I want it sweeter and less spicy. Depends on my mood.

Fresh mint adds a nice aroma, but honestly, if I’m short on time, I just toss a sprig on top and skip the muddling. Crushed candy canes can be made ahead and kept in a jar.

If the peppermint vodka feels too strong, I just use a little less and add more cranberry juice. Keeps it light and still tasty.

Tasting Notes

Right off the bat, there’s this cool peppermint flavor that hits my tongue. It’s refreshing and light—thankfully, not overpowering.

The candy cane brings in a gentle sweetness, mellowing out the sharper kick from the ginger beer. That combo just works, you know?

Then there’s the lime juice. It’s got this crisp, tart vibe that really wakes things up.

I notice it brightens the whole drink and stops it from getting too sugary. The way it meshes with the mint? Super clean, really smooth.

The vodka mostly hangs out in the background. It adds a little warmth, but doesn’t muscle in on the peppermint or ginger.

I appreciate that balance. Makes it easy to sip, nothing heavy about it at all.

When I finish a sip, there’s this mix of sweet candy, spicy ginger, and cool mint hanging around. The aftertaste is honestly pretty refreshing—kind of reminds me of a light holiday treat.

It lingers just enough that I find myself wanting another taste.

Flavor highlights I notice:

• Cool peppermint
• Sweet candy cane
• Tart lime
• Spicy ginger
• Smooth vodka warmth