Maple Bourbon Mule Cocktail Recipe

When I want a cocktail that’s both easy and a little special, I reach for my Maple Bourbon Mule. This drink mixes the classic mule’s ginger and lime flavors with the warm sweetness of maple syrup and smooth bourbon.

It’s the perfect drink if you’re looking for something a bit different but still familiar.

I like making this at home because it only calls for a few simple ingredients and no fancy tools. The maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that pairs so well with the spicy ginger beer and rich bourbon.

If you want a cozy drink that feels right for any season, you should give this cocktail a try.

Maple Bourbon Mule Cocktail Recipe

I make my Maple Bourbon Mule with bourbon, fresh lime juice, maple syrup, and ginger beer. It has a balance of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors.

Using the right tools and ingredients helps this drink taste its best.

Equipment

• Copper mug or rocks glass
• Jigger for measuring
• Cocktail shaker or stirring glass
• Bar spoon
• Citrus juicer
• Ice scoop
• Fine mesh strainer (optional)

I always prefer using a copper mug because it keeps the cocktail colder. The jigger helps me measure just the right amounts.

If I want a well-mixed drink, I’ll use a shaker, but stirring works too. A bar spoon is handy for gently mixing the cocktail.

I use fresh ice, and the strainer helps keep any pulp out.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon
• 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz pure maple syrup
• 3 oz ginger beer
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedge or wheel, for garnish
• Fresh mint sprig or candied ginger (optional)

I choose a smooth bourbon for the base. Fresh lime juice makes the cocktail bright.

Real maple syrup gives a warm sweetness and better flavor than pancake syrup. I like strong ginger beer for the spicy kick.

Ice chills the drink, and I use lime or mint to garnish.

Instructions

• Fill a copper mug or glass with ice.
• Add 2 oz bourbon, 0.75 oz lime juice, and 0.5 oz maple syrup.
• Stir or shake until well blended and chilled.
• Pour 3 oz ginger beer over the mixture.
• Stir gently to mix in the ginger beer.
• Garnish with a lime wedge or wheel.
• Add a sprig of mint or candied ginger on top if you like.

I fill my mug to the top with ice so it stays cold. I pour the bourbon, lime juice, and maple syrup first, making sure it mixes well before I add the ginger beer.

I stir gently so the ginger beer stays fizzy. Garnishes make it look and taste fresh.

Notes

I always use pure maple syrup, not imitation. The cocktail tastes best with lots of ice and fresh lime juice.

If I want a bit more spice, I add extra ginger beer or a slice of fresh ginger. For a non-alcoholic version, I skip the bourbon and add more ginger beer.

Sometimes, I like to experiment with different bourbons for subtle changes in flavor. If I’m short on copper mugs, any sturdy glass works in a pinch.

Fresh garnishes give the best look and smell. The cocktail should be enjoyed soon after mixing for the best taste and fizz.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Maple Bourbon Mule, the first thing I notice is the gentle sweetness from the maple syrup. It’s not strong or overpowering; instead, it blends smoothly with the bourbon.

The bourbon brings a caramel note that pairs up with the fresh ginger flavor from the ginger beer. I really like how the ginger adds a bit of heat and fizz—makes each mouthful crisp and honestly kind of fun.

There’s also a hint of lime in there, giving the drink a tangy edge. That bit of acidity helps keep the maple and bourbon from feeling too heavy.

The aftertaste? It’s clean, with a little spice from the ginger and a touch of sweetness sticking around on my tongue. It feels cool and festive, especially if you serve it in a copper mug—can’t beat that.