Minty Moscow Mule Cocktail Recipe

A classic Moscow Mule is always refreshing, but honestly, tossing in some fresh mint just takes it up a notch. This Minty Moscow Mule Cocktail Recipe walks you through mixing a crisp vodka cocktail with ginger beer, lime, and cooling mint—just a simple twist on the original.

It’s easy to make at home and works whenever you want something light and flavorful. I keep coming back to this one, especially when the weather’s warm.

I love how the mint balances out the ginger beer’s kick and the sharp hit of lime. It makes the drink taste extra fresh, but doesn’t mess with what makes a Moscow Mule so good.

With just a handful of ingredients and some really basic steps, you’ll have a mint Moscow Mule that feels classic but still a little new.

Minty Moscow Mule Cocktail Recipe

I usually make this drink when I want something refreshing but I don’t want to fuss around. The combo of vodka, ginger beer, lime juice, and fresh mint is crisp and super easy to enjoy.

Equipment

• Copper mug or copper cup – Keeps the drink cold and, let’s be honest, it just looks cool.
• Cocktail shaker – I’ll sometimes use this to mix lime juice, vodka, and simple syrup first.
• Muddler – Helps press the mint leaves so they actually release their oils.
• Bar spoon – Makes stirring easier and helps keep the ginger beer fizzy.
• Jigger or measuring tool – I use this to get the vodka, lime juice, and syrup just right.
• Knife and cutting board – For slicing up the fresh lime.
• Ice scoop or tongs – Keeps things clean when you’re adding ice.

Honestly, using the right tools just makes things smoother and keeps the drink tasting the same every time.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 4–6 oz ginger beer (chilled)
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 4–6 fresh mint leaves
• ½ oz simple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• Ice cubes
• Lime slice or wedge (for garnish)
• Extra mint sprig (for garnish)

I always go for good ginger beer since it’s most of the drink anyway. Fresh lime juice is a must—bottled just isn’t the same.

For the mint, I pick leaves that are green and firm. Wilted mint? Not worth it.

Instructions

• Drop the mint leaves into the bottom of your copper mug.
• Gently press them with a muddler, just enough to get those oils out.
• Fill the mug halfway with ice cubes.
• Pour in vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup if you’re using it.
• Give it a light stir with the bar spoon.
• Slowly top with chilled ginger beer so you don’t kill the fizz.
• Add more ice if you need to fill up the mug.
• Garnish with a lime slice and a fresh mint sprig.

I usually stir one more time before sipping, just to blend the flavors without losing bubbles.

Notes

Serving this in a copper mug is my go-to move—it stays cold and just feels right. If I don’t have one handy, a sturdy glass will do in a pinch.

The ginger beer you pick makes a big difference. Some are sweet, some have more of that spicy ginger kick. I like to try a few and see which one plays best with whatever vodka I’ve got.

Simple syrup? Totally up to you. I add it if I want a touch more sweetness, and I mess with the lime juice if I’m in the mood for extra tartness.

Fresh mint is a must. I stick with whole leaves and try not to tear them up too much, since that can make the drink a little bitter.

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the sharp kick of ginger beer jumps out at me. There’s this crisp spice that really plays off the coolness of the mint.

The lime sneaks in with a clean, tart edge, which keeps the whole thing bright and lively. Honestly, I think it’s what stops the drink from ever feeling heavy.

The mint itself feels so fresh and cooling on my tongue. It kind of softens the ginger’s heat, making the whole drink taste lighter.

I really like how the mint hangs around in the aftertaste, but never gets too loud or overpowering. It’s subtle, but definitely there.

And then there’s the vodka—smooth, not in-your-face, but it ties everything together. Since vodka’s naturally gluten-free, I don’t worry about serving this to friends who are avoiding gluten.

The drink stays perfectly cold in a copper mug, which just makes every sip that much more refreshing. That mix of spice, citrus, and mint? It’s a balanced cocktail, easy to drink, and thankfully not too sweet.