If you’re into easy drinks that still taste awesome, you might want to check out the Midnight Mule cocktail. It’s only three ingredients, so I can throw this classic cocktail together at home in barely any time.
Honestly, it’s my go-to when I want something a little different but don’t feel like fussing with a bunch of bottles.
I’ve served this Midnight Mule at parties, and people always seem impressed—even though it’s ridiculously simple. The combo of vodka, ginger beer, and black currant liqueur is just super refreshing.
This recipe is proof that a three-ingredient cocktail can be way more fun than it sounds.
Midnight Mule Cocktail Recipe (3-Ingredient Only)
The Midnight Mule is just vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice. I like keeping things simple—easy-to-find stuff, basic tools, and a drink that’s ready in minutes.
Equipment
- Copper mug (or just a sturdy glass, honestly)
- Jigger or measuring shot glass
- Bar spoon (or any small spoon)
- Citrus juicer (or just use your hands for the lime)
- Knife and cutting board (for the lime, obviously)
- Ice (crushed ice is best if you want it super cold)
I usually grab a copper mug because it keeps the drink icy cold. Not a must, but it does look cool.
Just make sure your gear’s clean before you get started.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka (I’m a fan of Absolut, but use what you like. Flavored vodka—lime or berry—can be fun.)
- 4 oz ginger beer (Fever-Tree is a solid pick if you want that spicy kick.)
- 0.5 oz freshly squeezed lime juice (that’s about half a lime)
- Ice (fill up your mug)
- Optional garnishes: lime wheel, mint sprig
If you’re feeling adventurous, swap in a flavored vodka for a Mongolian Mule vibe. And please, use real lime juice—the bottled stuff just isn’t the same.
Pick a ginger beer that’s not too sweet. Trust me, it matters.
Instructions
- Fill your copper mug (or glass) about three-quarters full with ice.
- Pour in 2 oz vodka.
- Squeeze in 0.5 oz lime juice and toss it in.
- Top with 4 oz chilled ginger beer.
- Give it a gentle stir—don’t kill the bubbles.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge, and maybe a mint sprig if you’re feeling fancy.
Honestly, this takes maybe two minutes. I always stir gently so the ginger beer stays nice and fizzy.
Notes
Fresh lime juice is a game changer. I skip the bottled stuff every time.
If you want it a little lighter, just add more ginger beer.
Fever Tree ginger beer brings a spicy punch, and I think it pairs well with Absolut Vodka. But any smooth vodka is fine.
Crushed ice gets the drink cold fast and keeps it that way. That’s especially nice if it’s hot out.
Need more than one? Just double or triple everything—keep the same ratios. Flavored vodka is a fun twist, too.
Equipment
- Copper mug (or sturdy glass)
- Jigger or measuring shot glass
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz freshly squeezed lime juice about half a lime
- 4 oz ginger beer
- 1 cup ice crushed or cubes
- 1 lime wheel or wedge optional garnish
- 1 mint sprig optional garnish
Instructions
- Fill your copper mug or glass about three-quarters full with ice.
- Pour in 2 oz vodka.
- Add 0.5 oz freshly squeezed lime juice.
- Top with 4 oz chilled ginger beer.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine without losing fizz.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge and a mint sprig, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy cold.
Tasting Notes
First sip, and there’s that crisp fizz from the ginger beer. It’s kind of like a Moscow Mule, but with its own spin.
The drink’s light and refreshing, perfect for summer or, honestly, any time you want something easy.
The lime gives it a tangy pop that balances the ginger’s sweet spice. Sometimes I’ll squeeze in a bit more lime if I want extra citrus.
Vodka just blends in, nothing overpowering. Here’s what I notice most:
- Ginger: Spicy and fizzy
- Lime: Tart and zesty
- Vodka: Clean and mild
No need to go wild with garnishes—the flavors are bold enough. I like how everything just works together.
It’s best served ice cold, especially if you’re hanging out outside.
| Flavor | Description |
|---|---|
| Ginger | Spicy, bubbly |
| Lime | Tart, fresh |
| Vodka | Neutral, smooth |
Not too strong, not too sweet, and always easy to make. I’ll admit, it’s one of those drinks I keep coming back to.
Substitute
Sometimes I just don’t have every ingredient for a Midnight Mule. No big deal—I’ll swap things around and usually end up with something tasty anyway.
If I’m out of ginger beer, I’ll grab ginger ale instead. It’s not as spicy, sure, but it still brings a nice ginger kick.
Want to change things up? Different spirits totally shift the vibe. Here’s what I usually reach for:
- Tequila: That makes it a Mexican Mule, which is brighter and a bit sharper.
- Bourbon: Now you’ve got a Kentucky Mule. It’s smooth, maybe a touch sweet.
- Vodka: Classic Moscow Mule stuff, if I’m feeling traditional.
Here’s a quick look at some spirit swaps:
| Regular Spirit | Substitute | Drink Name |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | Tequila | Mexican Mule |
| Vodka | Bourbon | Kentucky Mule |
| Vodka | Gin | Gin-Gin Mule |
If I don’t have bottled lime juice, I’ll just squeeze a fresh lime. Sometimes I’ll even use lemon juice if that’s what’s on hand.
So, my go-to swaps are:
- Ginger ale when I’m missing ginger beer
- Tequila, bourbon, or gin instead of vodka
- Lemon juice if I’m out of lime
Honestly, it’s fun to mix things up and see what works.
