The Moscow Mule is more than just a pretty cocktail — it’s a timeless classic with a zesty kick, a refreshing chill, and a loyal fan base. Whether you’re brand new to mixology or just want to perfect your pour, this guide will walk you through how to make a Moscow Mule the right way — and why the mug you use makes all the difference.
What’s in a Moscow Mule? The Simple 3-Ingredient Base
The beauty of a Moscow Mule lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a fully stocked bar cart — just three core ingredients:
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Vodka – smooth and neutral, it’s the perfect base.
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Fresh lime juice – never skip this. It adds the brightness and tang that makes the drink sing.
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Ginger beer – the soul of the mule. Choose a spicy, high-quality brand for that signature kick.
Optional add-ons: fresh mint, bitters, or even a splash of fruit juice (think cranberry or pomegranate) if you’re feeling creative.
Want to learn more about the drink’s fascinating backstory? Here’s a quick read on the origin of the Moscow Mule from Esquire.
The Tools Matter, Too
Before you dive into mixing, it helps to have the right tools on hand — especially if you’re building your home bar or shopping for a cocktail gift. A solid cocktail shaker, jigger, and bar spoon can make a huge difference in both flavor and presentation.
If you’re not sure where to start, check out this roundup of the best cocktail kits by CNN Underscored. It’s a great guide for beginners and enthusiasts alike who want to step up their mixology game at home.
And of course, no kit is complete without a set of moscow mule copper mugs — the drink just isn’t the same without them.
The Classic Moscow Mule Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 oz vodka
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½ oz fresh lime juice
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4–6 oz ginger beer
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Ice
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Lime wedge and mint sprig (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Fill your copper mug with ice.
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Add vodka and lime juice.
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Top with ginger beer.
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Stir gently and garnish with lime and mint.
That’s it — crisp, balanced, and endlessly refreshing.
Want a Second Take on the Recipe? 
While we’ve laid out the classic recipe above, every mixologist has their own spin — and that’s part of the fun. If you’re curious to see another well-loved version, check out this highly-rated Moscow Mule recipe from Cookie + Kate. It’s simple, refreshing, and adds a few helpful tips for perfecting your pour.
Just don’t forget: the real secret is still the mug. Serve it up in a set of 100% pure copper mugs for the full chill-and-sip experience.
Whether you’re switching up the spirit or experimenting with seasonal garnishes, the Moscow Mule is one of the most versatile cocktails out there. Try muddling in fresh herbs, adding a splash of pomegranate juice, or using flavored ginger beer for a twist that’s uniquely yours. No matter how you riff on the recipe, serving it in a pure copper mug elevates the entire experience — from the temperature to the taste.
Why Copper Mugs Matter (Yes, Really)
You can serve a Moscow Mule in a glass… but it just doesn’t hit the same. The traditional moscow mule copper mugs do more than look good on Instagram:
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They keep your drink colder longer
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They enhance the flavor of the lime and ginger through a natural reaction with the copper
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They offer the full Mule experience — iconic, classic, and elevated
For the best results, always use a 100% pure copper mug. Avoid mugs with stainless steel interiors or lacquered coatings. If you want to do it right, we recommend handcrafted pure copper mugs from Moscow Mix — functional, beautiful, and made specifically for mules.
If you’re curious why copper matters so much, here’s a deeper dive from Food52 on why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs.
Moscow Mule Variations to Try Next 
Once you’ve nailed the original, don’t stop there. Try one of these easy twists:
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Whiskey Mule (aka Kentucky Mule)
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Mexican Mule (with tequila)
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Gin Mule
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Cranberry Mule (perfect for holidays)
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Vodka and ginger ale Mule (lighter, more mellow)
We break these down in detail in our next post: 7 Moscow Mule Variations You’ve Never Tried (But Definitely Should).
Or check out this version from A Bar Above for a pro bartender’s take on the classic and its variations.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Mule
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Use fresh lime juice — not bottled.
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Choose a bold, spicy ginger beer.
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Chill your copper mugs in the freezer for extra frosty impact.
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Stir gently — you want fizz, not flat.
Final Sip
Now you know: the key to a killer Moscow Mule is fresh ingredients, cold copper, and a little know-how. Whether you’re toasting at home or hosting friends, this classic cocktail never goes out of style.
So grab your copper mugs for mules, squeeze some lime, and enjoy your new go-to drink — the right way.