Cranberry Mezcal Mule Cocktail
A smoky, tangy twist on the Moscow Mule—mezcal, cranberry juice, fresh lime, and ginger beer combine in this festive, colorful cocktail. Easy to make and surprisingly bold, it’s a perfect holiday sipper or any time you want a little drama in your glass.
Equipment
- Copper mug
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or shot glass
- Bar spoon
- Small strainer
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 oz mezcal
- 2 oz cranberry juice unsweetened or sweetened
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 4 oz chilled ginger beer
- fresh cranberries for garnish, optional
- lime wedge or wheel for garnish
- ice cubes
- simple syrup optional, to taste if using unsweetened cranberry juice
Instructions
- Fill your copper mug with ice cubes.
- Add mezcal, cranberry juice, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake for 10–15 seconds.
- Strain into the ice-filled mug.
- Top with ginger beer and give a gentle stir to mix.
- Garnish with cranberries and a lime wedge or wheel. Add simple syrup if needed for sweetness.
Notes
Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor. Use sweetened or unsweetened cranberry juice based on your taste. If using unsweetened juice, add simple syrup for balance. Muddle cranberries with lime juice for extra tartness if desired. Copper mugs keep the drink colder longer, but any glass works. Chill your mug for a crisper sip.