Caramel Apple Mule Cocktail Recipe

When the weather turns crisp, I’m always on the hunt for a drink that’s cozy but still refreshing. A classic Moscow Mule is high on my list, but sometimes I want something that just screams fall a bit more.

That’s how I ended up with this Caramel Apple Mule. It’s a simple twist—nothing complicated, but it really feels seasonal without being heavy.

This Caramel Apple Mule Cocktail Recipe will show you exactly how to mix caramel, apple, and ginger beer into a balanced fall drink. It’s easy enough to whip up at home, and honestly, it tastes like a caramel apple had a fling with a light cocktail.

If you’ve tried caramel apple sangria, it’s got a similar vibe, but with that crisp kick you get from a mule.

I love that it only takes a handful of ingredients and comes together pretty fast. It’s perfect for a small get-together or just a chill night in.

The caramel brings sweetness, the apple is tart, and the ginger beer adds a spicy little zing—honestly, it just feels right for fall.

Caramel Apple Mule Cocktail Recipe

I’m a fan of how this drink pulls together crisp apple cider, spicy ginger beer, and sweet caramel vodka. It’s somehow cozy and refreshing at the same time.

And the steps? Super simple, so you don’t need to be a pro to make it.

Equipment

• Copper mug or copper cup – Keeps the drink cold and looks classic.
• Cocktail shaker – Good for mixing the vodka, cider, and lime juice.
• Measuring jigger – Makes sure I don’t overdo it on anything.
• Bar spoon – For stirring, so the ginger beer doesn’t lose its fizz.
• Knife and cutting board – To slice up apples for garnish.
• Small plate – Handy if I want to rim the mug with caramel or cinnamon.
• Paper towel or cloth – For wiping up caramel drips.

Having everything set up before starting just makes life easier. Copper mugs aren’t a must, but they really do add to the whole experience.

Ingredients

• 2 oz caramel vodka or caramel flavored vodka
• 3 oz apple cider or apple juice
• 4 oz ginger beer (ginger ale works if I’m in a pinch)
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp caramel sauce or caramel syrup (totally optional, for extra sweetness)
• Apple slices for garnish
• Cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for garnish
• Ice cubes

I usually go for fresh apple cider in the fall, but apple juice is fine if that’s what’s in the fridge. Caramel vodka is the star here, though a caramel drizzle or rim is a nice little bonus.

Instructions

• Fill a copper mug with ice cubes.
• In a shaker, combine caramel vodka, apple cider, and lime juice.
• Give it a light shake—don’t go wild.
• Pour that mix over the ice in your mug.
• Top with ginger beer, then stir gently with a bar spoon.
• Drizzle caramel sauce inside the mug or over the top if you’re feeling it.
• Garnish with apple slices and a cinnamon stick.

I always stir after adding the ginger beer so it stays fizzy. The garnish isn’t just for looks—it actually adds a little aroma that’s pretty nice.

Notes

Copper mugs keep this drink way colder than glass, but if I don’t have one, a regular glass does the trick.

Fresh apple slices aren’t just for show—they’re a crisp little snack after the drink’s gone. Cinnamon sticks add a warm scent, and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top brings even more spice.

If I’m in the mood for something sweeter, I’ll rim the mug with caramel sauce before pouring. For a lighter drink, I skip the caramel drizzle and just stick to the basics.

This recipe’s pretty flexible, so it’s easy to tweak the sweetness or spice depending on what I’m feeling that day.

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the sweetness hits me right away. There’s this smooth caramel thing going on—it makes me think of those caramel apples you get at a fall fair.

The sweetness isn’t too much, though. It’s balanced, honestly.

Then the apple comes in with a crisp, slightly tart edge. That stops everything from sliding into sugary territory.

I like how the apple flavor just kind of hangs around after each sip. It’s subtle, but it’s there.

The ginger beer brings a gentle spice and a bit of fizz. That little kick cuts through the caramel and apple, so the drink stays refreshing.

Honestly, I really enjoy how the bubbles lift the flavors a bit. It’s a nice touch.

The flavors are simple, but there’s a bit of layering. Sweet caramel, tart apple, and spicy ginger—you can pick each one out.

They all come together for a cocktail that feels cozy, but still somehow refreshing.