The holiday season is my absolute favorite time of year. There’s just something so magical about the twinkling lights, the scent of a fresh balsam candle {my favorite}, and the joy of gathering with my friends and family over great food and delicious cocktails. As someone who adores hosting, I’m always looking for ways to elevate the vibe. And what better way to spread some holiday cheer than with a beautifully crafted cocktail? Enter the Cranberry Moscow Mule – a festive twist on a classic drink that’s sure to be a crowd favorite.
If you didn’t know, I live for a great cocktail. The more intricate the recipe, the better. Maybe it’s because I savor it more when there’s a bit of effort involved – who knows! Craft cocktails have always held a special place in my heart. There’s an art to balancing flavors, selecting the perfect garnishes, and presenting a drink that feels like a little gift in a glass. This Cranberry Moscow Mule checks all the boxes. It combines the crisp, zesty kick of ginger beer with the tart sweetness of a homemade cranberry simple syrup, all brought together by a splash of vodka and a squeeze of fresh lime. The pièce de résistance? A garnish of sugared cranberries and a sprig of rosemary all inside a beautiful copper mug that makes the drink look like it’s straight out of Bon Appétit.
When I was searching for some cocktail ideas for the holidays, this one stood out because it’s festive {with the cranberry syrup and rosemary garnish} and it’s incredibly easy to make in batches for a party. Hosting a holiday gathering? Simply mix your vodka, cranberry simple syrup, and lime juice in a large pitcher or punch bowl ahead of time. This allows you to serve up the perfect drink without having to mix each one individually. When guests arrive, pour the pre-made mixture over ice in copper mugs, top with ginger beer, and finish with the garnishes. The copper mugs keep the drink refreshingly chilled, and the presentation is so instagrammable.
For a stress-free hosting experience, you can even set up a Cranberry Moscow Mule station. Prepare the batch ahead of time and place the ingredients and garnishes on a beautifully arranged bar cart or table. This way, your guests can help themselves and enjoy a personalized experience. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering with a few of your close friends or a full-blown Christmas soiree, the Cranberry Moscow Mule is a perfect addition to your holiday menu. It’s festive, flavorful, and fun – everything a holiday cocktail should be. Cheers to a bright and merry season!
Festive Cranberry Moscow Mules
Ingredients
Cranberry Simple Syrup
- 2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
Cranberry Moscow Mule
- 4 ounces vodka
- 2 ounces cranberry simple syrup
- 1 ounce lime juice
- 12 ounces ginger beer
- 6-7 cranberries for garnish
- 2-3 sprigs rosemary
Instructions
Let's make this!
- Combine fresh cranberries, water, and honey in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, stirring often, until the cranberries soften and break down.
- Strain through a fine mesh strainer, pressing the cranberries to extract the syrup. Let cool completely. If the syrup thickens too much, stir in water, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s pourable.
- For a single cocktail, mix vodka, cranberry syrup, and lime juice in a copper mug. Add crushed ice until half full, top with ginger beer, and stir gently. Finish with more crushed ice and garnish with mint, a lime wedge, and fresh cranberries. Serve immediately.
- Hosting? Check out the notes for an easy large-batch Cranberry Moscow Mule station.
Notes
Hosting tip: Make a Moscow Mule Station
This easy large-batch recipe will keep the drinks flowing without the need for constant mixing. Here’s how to make it a hit: Ingredients:- 2 cups vodka
- 1 1/4 cup cranberry simple syrup
- 1/2 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 4 cups ginger beer
- Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish
- In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine the vodka, cranberry syrup, and lime juice. Stir well to combine.
- Right before serving, add the ginger beer and give it a gentle stir.
- Fill a tray or ice bucket with ice and set it next to the station, so guests can help themselves.
- Provide glassware (preferably copper mugs for that authentic Moscow Mule feel), fresh cranberries, lime wedges, and rosemary for festive garnish and extra aroma.
- Label the station with a cute sign so guests know what to expect.
- Have a few non-alcoholic options available by substituting the vodka with sparkling water or more ginger beer for a mocktail version.
- Keep the ingredients pre-mixed for easy refills and set out extra garnishes to make it feel like a personalized experience.
♥ And for the morning after a festive night of cocktails, this coffee recipe is going to be your go-to.
♥♥ This simple DIY centerpiece can be made in under an hour and adds a festive touch
