The Best Apple Cider Moscow Mule Recipe for Fall

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, it’s the perfect time to cozy up with the best apple cider Moscow Mule.

Enter the Apple Cider Moscow Mule—a delicious twist on the classic Moscow Mule that combines the tangy bite of ginger beer with the sweet, spiced flavors of apple cider.

This cocktail is perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or a quiet evening by the fire.

In this blog post, I’ll share the best Apple Cider Moscow Mule recipe, complete with tips and tricks to make it even better.

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See Also: The Best Wassail Recipe to Make Your House Smell Like Christmas Morning

The Best Apple Cider Moscow Mule Recipe

Ingredients for the Best Apple Cider Moscow Mule:

• 2 oz vodka
• 3 oz apple cider (preferably fresh, unfiltered)
• 1/2 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 4 oz ginger beer
• Ice
• Apple slices, cinnamon stick, star anise, cranberries, and lime wedges for garnish
• Optional: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost

Instructions for the best apple cider Moscow Mule:

1. Fill a Copper Mug: Start by filling a traditional copper mug (or any glass if you don’t have one) with ice. Copper mugs are preferred because they keep the drink colder for longer and enhance the ginger beer’s crispness.
2. Add the Vodka and Apple Cider: Pour 2 ounces of vodka over the ice. Add 3 ounces of apple cider for a sweet, spiced base that pairs perfectly with the other flavors.
3. Squeeze in Fresh Lime Juice: Add 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice. Fresh lime juice is essential as it balances the sweetness of the apple cider with a bright, tart kick.
4. Top with Ginger Beer: Slowly pour 4 ounces of ginger beer into the mug. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a slice of apple, a cinnamon stick, and a lime wedge. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top. Enjoy your Apple Cider Moscow Mule immediately, as the ice will keep it refreshingly cold.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Apple Cider Moscow Mule

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Apple Cider

For the best flavor, use fresh, unfiltered apple cider. The unfiltered variety has a richer apple flavor and a bit of natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the ginger beer and vodka. Avoid using apple juice, as it lacks the depth and spiciness of real apple cider.

2. Choose Your Ginger Beer Wisely

Not all ginger beers are created equal. For a classic Moscow Mule, a spicy and robust ginger beer works best. Brands like Fever-Tree, Q Mixers, or Gosling’s provide a strong ginger kick without being too sweet. The ginger beer should complement the apple cider rather than overpower it.

3. Experiment with Spices

If you love warm fall spices, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even allspice directly into the drink. You can also infuse the vodka with a cinnamon stick for a few hours before making the cocktail for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Don’t Skip the Fresh Lime Juice

While the apple cider adds sweetness and flavor, the fresh lime juice cuts through and balances the drink. Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential; bottled lime juice often has preservatives that can alter the flavor.

5. Garnish Like a Pro

Garnishes aren’t just for looks—they add aroma and flavor to your cocktail. A fresh apple slice, cinnamon stick, and lime wedge add a lovely fragrance and a hint of fall charm to each sip. You can also dip the apple slice in lemon juice to prevent it from browning.

FAQs

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time for a party? 

Yes! To make a batch, multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix the vodka, apple cider, and lime juice in a pitcher. Store in the fridge until ready to serve. When it’s party time, pour the mixture into ice-filled mugs and top with ginger beer.

Can I make an Apple Cider Moscow Mule non-alcoholic? 

Absolutely! Replace the vodka with club soda or ginger ale for a refreshing mocktail. You can also use a non-alcoholic spirit alternative if you want to maintain the cocktail vibe without the alcohol.

What kind of vodka works best for this recipe? 

A high-quality, smooth vodka is best for this cocktail. Since the vodka is a primary ingredient, you’ll want to choose one that blends well with the other flavors. A neutral vodka like Tito’s, Grey Goose, or Smirnoff works well.

Can I use sparkling apple cider instead of regular apple cider? 

Yes, sparkling apple cider can add a fun, fizzy twist to this cocktail. Just be aware that it may change the drink’s overall sweetness and carbonation level. If you use sparkling apple cider, consider reducing the ginger beer slightly to avoid an overly fizzy drink.

What if I don’t have a copper mug? 

While copper mugs are traditional for Moscow Mules, they aren’t a requirement. You can use a regular glass or even a highball glass. The drink will still be delicious, though it may not stay as cold for as long as it would in a copper mug.

This Post was all About the Best Apple Cider Moscow Mule

This Apple Cider Moscow Mule is the perfect autumn cocktail that combines the spicy warmth of ginger beer with the sweet, cozy flavors of apple cider.

Whether you’re sipping it by the fireplace or serving it at your next fall gathering, this cocktail is sure to be a hit.

Cheers to the flavors of fall! 🍂🍹