Maple Cinnamon Vodka Mule Cocktail Recipe

I’m always up for experimenting with classic cocktails, and honestly, this Maple Cinnamon Vodka Mule is high on my list. There’s something about that combo of smooth vodka, sweet maple syrup, and a little cinnamon—it just gives the traditional Moscow Mule this warm, inviting twist.

It’s the kind of drink I reach for when I want something refreshing but with a little personality. You don’t need anything fancy, either. Just a few ingredients, some basic tools, and you’re set.

Maple Cinnamon Vodka Mule Cocktail Recipe

Warm cinnamon and rich maple syrup meet the tang of fresh lime juice here. The ginger beer adds that fizzy kick, and vodka keeps things balanced so it’s not too sweet.

Equipment

• Copper mug (for that classic mule presentation)
• Jigger or measuring spoons
• Bar spoon (or just a regular spoon works)
• Citrus juicer or squeezer
• Knife and cutting board
• Grater (for fresh ginger, if you want)
• Small bowl or plate (to mix in spices like cinnamon and vanilla)

There’s just something about a copper mug—it keeps everything super cold and, I swear, the flavors pop more. I like using a jigger to avoid overpouring. A citrus juicer? Makes life way easier. And if I’m feeling bold, I’ll grate in some fresh ginger.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz maple syrup
• 4 oz ginger beer, chilled
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra depth)
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedges (garnish)
• Cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon (garnish)
• Fresh ginger, grated (optional, for more spice)

I always go for pure maple syrup—none of that fake stuff. Fresh lime juice is a must; the bottled kind just doesn’t cut it. A good ginger beer makes all the difference, trust me. Vodka keeps it classic, but the maple and cinnamon really steal the show. Sometimes I’ll throw in a dash of vanilla or fresh ginger if I’m in the mood.

Instructions

• Fill a copper mug with ice cubes, almost to the top.
• Pour in 2 oz vodka, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and 1 oz maple syrup.
• Sprinkle in 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon and add 1/2 tsp vanilla extract if you’re using it.
• Grate in a bit of fresh ginger for extra heat, if you like.
• Stir everything up with a bar spoon until it’s mixed and chilled.
• Top with 4 oz chilled ginger beer and give it one last gentle stir.
• Finish with a lime wedge and a cinnamon stick or a dusting of cinnamon.

I like to mix everything right in the mug—it just stays colder that way. If I’m craving more cinnamon, I’ll let it sit with the syrup for a minute before adding the rest. Ginger beer goes in last to keep things bubbly.

Notes

Fresh lime juice makes all the difference. The bottled stuff? It’s just not the same. If it’s too sweet, I’ll squeeze in a bit more lime.

Copper mugs aren’t required, but they’re fun and keep things icy. For a milder drink, I’ll skip the grated ginger. If I want something richer, a little extra maple syrup does the trick.

Feel free to play with the spices. Sometimes I’ll toss in a pinch of nutmeg, or just use a cinnamon stick as a stirrer. And really, using good maple syrup and ginger beer is what makes this drink shine.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip, there’s this smooth warmth from the vodka, and then—oh, a cozy hint of cinnamon sneaks in. The maple syrup? It’s sweet, but not in that cloying way; it just sort of rounds things out.

The ginger beer pops with bubbly freshness and a gentle spice. I’m surprised by how the flavors don’t fight each other—they actually get along pretty well.

It’s like drinking a cocktail that’s somehow both refreshing and comforting, no matter what time of year it is.

If I’m in the mood for a mocktail, I’ll just skip the vodka and pour in extra ginger beer or maybe sparkling water. The drink still tastes fresh, sweet, and honestly, I don’t even miss the alcohol.

Cinnamon sticks add this nice aroma—especially if you give the drink a good stir. Each sip is really easy to enjoy; it’s not too strong, and the sweetness is just right.