Zesty Apple Cider Moscow Mule Recipe: A Fall Cocktail Gem

My latest cocktail obsession involves a delightful apple cider moscow mule that blends autumn’s warmth with classic mixology magic.

Crisp evenings call for something special and refreshingly unexpected.

Vodka mingles perfectly with tangy apple cider, creating a drink that feels both comforting and sophisticated.

Ginger beer adds a spicy kick that dances across your palate with zesty enthusiasm.

Sharp notes of fresh lime balance the sweetness, making each sip a delightful adventure.

Copper mugs aren’t just decorative, they actually keep your drink wonderfully chilled and enhance the entire sensory experience.

You’ll want to mix this up and impress everyone at your next gathering.

Why Apple Cider Moscow Mule Feels Like Fall in a Glass

• Craft a Seasonal Cocktail: Transform classic Moscow Mule into a cozy autumn-inspired drink that captures the essence of fall flavors.
• Quick Party Pleaser: Mix this crowd-winning cocktail in mere moments, making it perfect for gatherings, game nights, or spontaneous celebrations.
• Customize with Ease: Adjust ingredients to personal taste, swap vodka for bourbon, or experiment with different apple cider styles to make the recipe uniquely yours.
• Sensory Delight: Enjoy a perfect balance of spicy ginger, sweet apple cider, and zesty lime that tickles your taste buds and creates a festive drinking experience.

What Goes Into Apple Cider Moscow Mule

• Vodka: A clear spirit that provides a smooth base for the cocktail.
• Apple Cider: Adds a sweet and tangy autumn flavor to the drink.
• Ginger Beer: Delivers a spicy kick and creates the signature Moscow Mule fizz.

• Lime Wedge: Brings a bright, fresh citrus note to balance the sweetness.
• Apple Slice, Cinnamon Stick: Decorative elements that enhance the seasonal presentation.

• Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic touch that complements the apple cider.

• Ice Cubes: Chills the drink and provides a refreshing texture.

How to Mix a Refreshing Apple Cider Moscow Mule

Step 1: Prepare Your Copper Companion

Select a classic copper mug and fill it generously with ice cubes. The copper will help keep your drink wonderfully chilled and add a gorgeous metallic sparkle to your cocktail presentation.

Step 2: Pour the Liquid Symphony

• Vodka
• Apple cider
• Ginger beer

Splash these liquids directly over the ice, letting them mingle and dance together in the copper vessel.

Step 3: Awaken the Citrus Zest

Take a fresh lime wedge and squeeze its bright, tangy juice directly into the mug.

Drop the squeezed lime into the drink to enhance the overall flavor profile and add a rustic touch.

Step 4: Sprinkle Autumn Magic

Dust the surface with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

Use a bar spoon to gently stir the ingredients, allowing the spice to blend seamlessly and create beautiful swirls in your cocktail.

Step 5: Create a Stunning Garnish

Complete your Moscow Mule with an elegant finishing touch.

• A crisp apple slice
• A warm cinnamon stick

Perch the garnish on the rim of the mug to add visual appeal and hint at the seasonal flavors within.

Helpful Tips for a Better Apple Cider Moscow Mule

• Opt for high-quality apple cider to enhance the drink's natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Chill the copper mug beforehand to keep the cocktail refreshingly cold from the first sip.
• Experiment with different vodka brands to find the perfect balance of smoothness and apple cider notes.
• Use freshly squeezed lime juice for a brighter, more vibrant citrus kick that complements the spicy ginger beer.
• For a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with sparkling water or apple juice to maintain the drink's crisp profile.

Apple Cider Moscow Mule Twists to Try

• Autumn Harvest Mule: Swap vodka for spiced rum and add a splash of maple syrup for a cozy fall flavor profile.
• Cranberry Crisp Mule: Replace apple cider with cranberry juice and garnish with fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig for a festive winter version.
• Pear Spice Mule: Use pear nectar instead of apple cider and add a dash of cardamom for a smooth, sophisticated interpretation.
• Caramel Apple Mule: Drizzle caramel sauce inside the copper mug and use apple brandy in place of vodka for an indulgent seasonal treat.

Fun Pairings for Apple Cider Moscow Mule

• Pair with Autumn Cheese Board: Create a rustic board featuring sharp cheddar, creamy brie, and aged gouda that complement the apple cider's sweet-tangy notes.
• Match with Spiced Pork Tenderloin: Serve a herb-crusted roasted pork tenderloin with caramelized apples, enhancing the cocktail's warm cinnamon and apple flavors.
• Complement with Harvest Salad: Toss mixed greens with roasted pecans, goat cheese, and apple slices dressed in a light vinaigrette to echo the drink's crisp apple essence.
• Serve Alongside Maple Pecan Cookies: Bake soft, buttery cookies with maple and pecan elements that harmonize with the cocktail's autumnal profile.

Storing Apple Cider Moscow Mule the Right Way

• Refrigerator Storage: Pour leftover cocktail into an airtight glass container and seal tightly. Keeps fresh for 1-2 days in the refrigerator, but best consumed within 24 hours for optimal flavor.
• Freezer Storage: Transfer drink to a freezer-safe container, leaving 1-inch space for expansion. Freeze up to 1 month, but note that carbonation will decrease upon thawing.
• Reheating Option: Gently stir thawed cocktail to redistribute ingredients. Pour over fresh ice and add a splash of ginger beer to restore carbonation and refresh the drink's zesty profile.
• Flavor Revival: If drink tastes flat after storage, reinvigorate by adding a fresh squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

Common Questions About Apple Cider Moscow Mule

• What makes this Moscow Mule different from a classic version?

This recipe adds apple cider and cinnamon to the traditional vodka and ginger beer, creating a seasonal twist that highlights autumn flavors.

• Can I make this cocktail without a copper mug?

While a copper mug is traditional and helps keep the drink cold, you can use a regular highball glass or any tall glass as an alternative.

• Is this drink considered strong?

The cocktail has a moderate alcohol content due to vodka and ginger beer, making it a balanced and refreshing drink that’s not overly potent.

• What type of apple cider works best for this recipe?

Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the most robust flavor. Avoid apple juice, as it lacks the depth and complexity of real apple cider.

Apple Cider Moscow Mule Recipe

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4.7 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Spicy and refreshing, this Apple Cider Moscow Mule combines crisp vodka with zesty ginger beer and sweet autumn apple notes. Cool copper mugs showcase this seasonal cocktail that brings sophisticated flavor to your next gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Alcohol:

• 2 ounces (60 milliliters) vodka

Main Ingredients:

• 4 ounces (120 milliliters) ginger beer
• 2 ounces (60 milliliters) apple cider

Garnish and Extras:

• 1 lime wedge
• Ice
• Powdered cinnamon
• 1 apple slice
• 1 cinnamon stick

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Instructions

1. Fill a copper mug to the brim with crushed ice, creating a chilled base for the cocktail.
2. Pour crisp vodka and freshly pressed apple cider into the icy vessel, allowing the ingredients to mingle.
3. Top the mixture with spicy ginger beer, creating a vibrant and effervescent layer.
4. Squeeze a tangy lime wedge directly over the drink, releasing its zesty essence into the cocktail.
5. Drop the used lime wedge into the mug for an extra hint of citrus aroma.
6. Delicately sprinkle ground cinnamon across the surface, gently stirring to integrate the warm, aromatic spice.
7. Complete the presentation by adorning the drink with a thin, crisp apple slice or an elegant cinnamon stick as a sophisticated garnish.

Notes

• Opt for a high-quality vodka to enhance the drink’s overall flavor profile and smoothness.
• Choose fresh apple cider from a local orchard or farmer’s market for the most vibrant, authentic taste.
• Chill the copper mug beforehand to keep the cocktail extra cold and maintain its refreshing quality.
• For a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with sparkling water or apple juice, creating a family-friendly mocktail that everyone can enjoy.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Cocktails
• Method: Shaking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 10 mg
• Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg