A Grapefruit Thyme Mule is a tasty twist on the classic Moscow Mule. This drink adds zesty grapefruit and fragrant thyme to the traditional mix of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
The bright citrus notes of grapefruit blend well with the spicy kick of ginger beer. Thyme gives the cocktail an herbal touch that balances the flavors. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm days or any time you want a tangy, bubbly drink.
Making a Grapefruit Thyme Mule at home is easy. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, anyone can mix up this tasty drink. It’s a great choice for parties or quiet evenings at home.
Grapefruit Thyme Mule Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Copper mug or highball glass
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Muddler
- Bar spoon
- Ice
- Knife and cutting board
- Citrus juicer (optional)
Ingredients
For one cocktail, you’ll need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 4-6 oz ginger beer
- Ice
- Grapefruit wedge and thyme sprig for garnish
Fresh juices are key for the best flavor. If grapefruits aren’t in season, bottled juice can work in a pinch. The amount of simple syrup can be adjusted based on personal taste and the sweetness of your grapefruit.
Instructions
- Add thyme sprigs to the mug or glass and gently muddle to release oils.
- Fill the mug with ice.
- Pour in vodka, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine.
- Top with ginger beer.
- Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and fresh thyme sprig.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
The drink can be stirred again before sipping to make sure all flavors are well mixed. The grapefruit and thyme garnish add a nice aroma as you drink.
Notes
Tasting Notes
The Grapefruit Thyme Mule offers a refreshing blend of flavors. Its taste is tart and zesty from the grapefruit, with herbal notes from the thyme. The ginger beer adds a spicy kick and effervescence.
This cocktail has a bright, citrusy aroma. The scent of fresh thyme mingles with the grapefruit, creating an inviting fragrance. The ginger provides a subtle warmth to the nose.
The drink’s texture is light and bubbly. It feels crisp and cool on the palate. The carbonation from the ginger beer gives it a lively mouthfeel.
The Grapefruit Thyme Mule is best served ice-cold. Its flavors become more pronounced as the drink warms slightly. The taste evolves with each sip, making it an interesting and enjoyable cocktail experience.
Substitute
Can’t find grapefruit or thyme for your mule cocktail? No problem. There are tasty alternatives to try.
Instead of grapefruit juice, use lime juice or lemon juice. These citrus fruits give a similar tart flavor. For a sweeter option, try orange juice or pomelo juice.
To replace fresh thyme, use dried thyme. Use about 1/3 the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. Other herbs like rosemary or basil can work too. They’ll change the flavor a bit, but still taste great.
No ginger beer? Mix ginger ale with a splash of lime juice. You can also use sparkling water and add extra ginger and lime.
Vodka is the typical spirit for a mule. But gin, tequila, or rum can make fun twists on the classic recipe.
Here’s a quick substitution guide:
- Grapefruit juice → Lime, lemon, orange, or pomelo juice
- Fresh thyme → Dried thyme, rosemary, or basil
- Ginger beer → Ginger ale + lime juice
- Vodka → Gin, tequila, or rum
Try these swaps to make your own unique version of a Grapefruit Thyme Mule. The cocktail will still be refreshing and tasty.