I’m a sucker for a good cocktail—especially one that feels right for the season. My Spooky Citrus Mule with vodka is a playful spin on the classic mule, and honestly, it’s just made for Halloween or whenever you want something with a little more zing. Bright citrus, the sharp bite of ginger beer, and smooth vodka all come together in this drink.
It looks awesome with a creepy garnish or a spooky little twist. The fresh flavors? They’ll probably surprise your friends, in a good way.
Let’s see how easy it is to whip up your own Spooky Citrus Mule at home.
Spooky Citrus Mule With Vodka Cocktail Recipe
I like making a Spooky Citrus Mule for Halloween parties, but honestly, I’ll make one any night I want something different from the classic mule. With the right tools and good, fresh ingredients, it’s easy to mix up a tasty, eye-catching drink.
Getting the balance of flavors and a cool look? Not hard, just takes a little attention.
Equipment
- Copper mug or glass
- Jigger (for measuring spirits)
- Bar spoon or regular spoon
- Cocktail shaker (optional, but handy)
- Citrus juicer
- Knife and cutting board
- Small plate for salt or colored sugar (for rimming, if you’re into that)
- Toothpick or skewer for garnish
- Ice cubes
I always reach for a copper mug to keep things cold. If I want a spooky rim, a shallow plate works for the sugar.
A juicer helps me squeeze out every last drop of citrus.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz fresh orange juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- 1/4 oz simple syrup (optional, for a little extra sweetness)
- Blackberries or maraschino cherries (for garnish)
- Orange or lime slices (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
- Black sugar or colored sugar (for rim, optional)
Fresh citrus is a must—it just tastes better. Blackberries or cherries? They’re perfect for a spooky garnish.
If I’m in the mood for something sweeter, I’ll splash in a bit of simple syrup.
Instructions
- Fill your copper mug with ice cubes.
- Run a citrus wedge around the rim and dip it in black or colored sugar if you want that festive look.
- Add vodka, fresh lime juice, and fresh orange juice to the mug.
- Top with ginger beer and give it a gentle stir.
- Taste it, and if you want more sweetness, add simple syrup.
- Garnish with blackberries, cherries, or a slice of citrus on a skewer.
- Serve right away, while it’s still cold and fizzy.
That’s pretty much it. The flavors come together easily, and the drink always looks awesome.
Notes
If I can’t find black sugar, colored sugar or even coarse salt works for the rim. For a creepier vibe, I like freezing blackberries inside ice cubes.
Chilled ginger beer is key for keeping things crisp. I usually taste as I go, just to make sure the balance is right.
Sometimes I’ll swap up the garnishes—gummy worms, a plastic spider, or even a little dry ice (if I’m feeling brave and careful) for that extra Halloween drama.
Equipment
- Copper mug or glass
- Jigger (for measuring)
- Cocktail shaker (optional)
- Knife and cutting board
- Small plate (for rimming with sugar or salt)
- Toothpick or skewer (for garnish)
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- ¾ oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz fresh orange juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- ¼ oz simple syrup optional, adjust to taste
- 2 –3 blackberries or maraschino cherries for garnish
- 1 slice orange or lime for garnish
- 1 tbsp black sugar or colored sugar optional, for rimming
- Ice cubes enough to fill the mug
Instructions
- Fill a copper mug with ice cubes.
- Top with ginger beer and gently stir to mix.
- Taste and, if desired, add simple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Garnish with blackberries, cherries, or a slice of orange or lime on a skewer.
- Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.
Tasting Notes
First sip? The Spooky Citrus Mule hits with a bright, zesty burst from the lemon and orange juices.
The flavors are super fresh, with just enough tang.
I can taste the vodka, but it’s not overpowering. It blends right in with the ginger beer and brings a gentle warmth.
Here’s what jumps out:
- Citrus: Lemon and orange bring a bright, fruity punch.
- Spice: Ginger beer adds a light kick and some fizz.
- Sweetness: Sweet, but not over the top.
The aroma is fresh, and I get a nice hit of citrus and ginger as soon as I pick up the mug.
The drink is cold and crisp—just really refreshing.
I always love the spooky garnish. It makes the drink playful without messing with the flavor.
And honestly, those bold colors in the glass? They make me want to take another sip.
Substitute
Sometimes I just run out of ingredients, or honestly, I get the urge to switch things up in my Spooky Citrus Mule with vodka.
Vodka Substitutes:
- I’ll grab gin if I’m craving a herbal twist.
- White rum brings a little more sweetness.
- Tequila? That’s for when I want a bolder, punchy flavor.
Citrus Choices:
- No lime juice? I’ll squeeze in some lemon juice and call it good.
- Orange juice works too, and it makes the drink taste a bit more playful.
Ginger Beer Alternatives:
- If I’m out of ginger beer, I usually reach for ginger ale—it’s lighter, less spicy, but still gets the job done.
- Sometimes, I’ll throw some club soda and a bit of fresh ginger in there for some bubbles.
| Original Ingredient | Easy Substitute |
|---|---|
| Vodka | Gin, White Rum |
| Lime Juice | Lemon, Orange Juice |
| Ginger Beer | Ginger Ale, Club Soda + Ginger |
If I’m making a non-alcoholic version, I just skip the booze and load up on juice and ginger beer.
Here’s how I go about swapping things:
-
Equipment
- Shaker or stirring glass
- Measuring jigger
- Muddler (optional)
- Copper mug or whatever glass I’ve got handy
-
Ingredients
- Substitute spirit (gin, white rum, or tequila)
- Substitute citrus juice (lemon or orange)
- Substitute mixer (ginger ale or club soda with ginger)
- Ice
- Fresh fruit or herbs for garnish
-
Instructions
