If you like refreshing cocktails, you might want to give my Elderflower Moscow Mule recipe a shot. This drink brings together the crisp kick of ginger beer and the gentle, floral notes of elderflower, shaking up a classic favorite with something new.
It’s honestly pretty easy to make at home, whether you’re hosting a few friends or just winding down after a long day. I wanted a change from the usual Moscow Mule, so I started playing around with elderflower liqueur.
The result? A drink that’s balanced, a little sweet, and somehow both elegant and easygoing. You just need a handful of basic ingredients and a few simple steps—no fancy bartending moves required.
Elderflower Moscow Mule Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Copper mug (for chilling and added flavor)
- Jigger or measuring cup (for accuracy)
- Bar spoon: for stirring.
- Strainer (optional, if you prefer no pulp)
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz elderflower liqueur such as St-Germain
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice about half a lime
- 4 oz ginger beer chilled
- Ice cubes enough to fill the mug
- Lime wedges or wheels for garnish
- Fresh mint sprig optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a copper mug with ice cubes.
- Add the vodka and elderflower liqueur.
- Pour in the fresh lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon to mix.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig if desired.
Notes
Tasting Notes
When I take a sip of this Elderflower Moscow Mule, the first thing that hits me is the fresh aroma. Lime and elderflower jump out, and then there’s a softer hint of ginger underneath.
The taste is honestly crisp and light. You get a quick hit of citrus from the lime, which blends right into the sweet, floral elderflower liqueur.
The ginger beer adds a subtle heat and a little spice that lingers. Here’s how I’d break down the main flavors:
The drink isn’t too sweet, which I really appreciate. Flavors feel balanced, and the finish is clean with a gentle ginger warmth.
The bubbles from the ginger beer keep it lively and easy to drink. There’s also that coolness from the ice and copper mug, so every sip stays fresh.
All in all, it’s a refreshing, lightly floral spin on the classic Moscow Mule—definitely worth trying if you’re in the mood for something a little different.
Substitute
Let’s be honest—not everyone has a stocked bar or pantry. Sometimes I just don’t have all the ingredients for an Elderflower Moscow Mule.
So, what can you swap in? Here are a few easy substitutes that’ve worked for me.
St-Germain Substitute:
- Elderflower syrup (this one’s non-alcoholic, by the way)
- Elderflower cordial—also a solid pick
Ginger Beer Substitute:
- Ginger ale (it’s definitely sweeter, and not as spicy, but it’ll do)
- If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade ginger simple syrup mixed with club soda
Vodka Substitute:
- Gin for a more herbal kick
- White rum, if you’re after something sweeter
- Non-alcoholic spirit—hello, mocktail!
Lime Juice Substitute:
- Lemon juice (it’s different, but hey, still citrus)
- Bottled lime juice is fine if that’s what you’ve got
Equipment:
- Measuring jigger or just a shot glass
- Copper mug is classic, but honestly, any glass works
- Bar spoon (or, let’s be real, whatever spoon is handy)
Ingredients:
- 2 oz substitute for vodka (gin, rum, or non-alcoholic—your call)
- 1 oz elderflower syrup or cordial (instead of St-Germain)
- 1/2 oz lime or lemon juice
- 4 oz ginger beer or ginger ale
Instructions:
- Add your chosen spirit, elderflower syrup, and citrus juice to a glass.
- Give it a good stir with your bar spoon.
- Fill the glass up with ice—don’t skimp.
- Top with ginger beer or whatever you’re using instead.
- Stir again, gently this time, and serve it up.
