Moscow Mule Cocktail has a long history dating back to the 1940s. This drink was formed in Manhattan but got its name due to the main ingredient of vodka, which is associated with Russia. Its birth was thanks to a collaboration between John Martin, a marketer for Heublein Brothers, and Jack Morgan, owner of the Cock ‘n’ Bull pub in Los Angeles. They created this cocktail to promote vodka, which was unpopular in America.
This cocktail is suitable for both backyard BBQs and classy cocktail parties. The refreshing combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime makes it a favorite among many, including celebrities like Oprah Winfrey.

Moscow Mule Recipe
Equipment
- Moscow Mule Mug (Copper Mug)
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Lime squeezer
- Stirring stick or spoon
Ingredients
- 2 oz Vodka For a non-alcoholic versionyou can substitute vodka with club soda.
- 6 oz Ginger Beer Ginger ale can be used in a pinch but remember, it's not an exact replacement for ginger beer.
- Fresh lime
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Use a jigger to measure 60 ml (a double shot) of vodka and add to your Moscow Mule mug.2 oz Vodka
- Fill the mug with ice cubes and top up with 180 ml of ginger beer.6 oz Ginger Beer
- Add more ice cubes to top off.Ice cubes
- Squeeze half a lime into the mug, approximately 15 ml of juice.Fresh lime
- Drop the squeezed lime into the mug.
- Stir to incorporate the lime juice.
Video
Notes
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a copper mug to keep the drink cold for extended periods and add a touch of authenticity.
- Fresh lime juice will make a huge difference in taste compared to bottled lime juice.
- The flavor of the ginger beer can make or break your Moscow Mule, so go for a good quality one.
Calculate Nutrition the Drink
- Calories: Approximately 220 kcal
- Sugar: 15-20 grams, depending on the ginger beer used
- Alcohol: 14 grams (based on 40% alcohol content in vodka)
Why does a Moscow Mule have to be in a copper cup?
The tradition of serving a Moscow Mule in a copper mug is as much a part of the drink’s identity as its ingredients. However, a copper mug requires more tradition and aesthetics than strict necessity. Here’s a breakdown of why copper mugs are commonly used:
Copper is an excellent temperature conductor, helping keep the drink cold for an extended period. When you pour the cold ingredients into the mug, the copper surface instantly chills, adding an extra frigid sensation to your first sip.
While some claim that drinking from a copper mug enhances vodka, ginger beer, and lime flavors, this claim has little scientific backing. Some believe the copper may react with the lime juice, subtly boosting the taste. However, this point is moot if you’re using a lined copper mug (as many are).
The copper mug has been associated with the Moscow Mule since its creation in the 1940s. The drink’s inventors initially used the copper mugs as a marketing tactic. Photos featuring Hollywood celebrities drinking Moscow Mules from copper mugs helped solidify this presentation as tradition. The copper mug is Instagram-worthy, adding a rustic, vintage charm to the serving. A Moscow Mule in a standard glass may taste the same, but it lacks the signature presentation.
If you’re using copper mugs, ensure they are lined with another material like stainless steel or nickel. Drinking acidic drinks from a pure copper mug can lead to copper leaching, which is not recommended for health reasons.

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