Classic Moscow Mule (Fast & Easy)

Today, I’m sharing everything you need to know about a Moscow Mule. Ready?! Moscow mules are delightfully fizzy drinks made with fiery ginger beer, vodka and fresh lime.
Moscow mules are refreshing on hot summer days, sure, but they’re also holiday-appropriate thanks to the strong ginger flavor. They strike that elusive balance between spicy, sweet and strong, and I’d sip one any day.
Bonus: Moscow mules are super easy to make. You’ll need just three basic ingredients:
- Vodka
- Ginger beer
- Fresh lime
The ginger beer component makes the biggest difference between a so-so and fantastic Moscow mule. So, I bought all the ginger beers I could find and tried them at home. Keep reading to find my recommendations!
You’ve got the copper mugs, the ginger beer, and the vodka: now all you need is a recipe. Here’s how to make a classic Moscow mule!
Moscow Mule Copper Mug Notes
Moscow mules are typically served in copper mugs, which make them seem extra-cold and refreshing. Why? Copper is an excellent conductor, meaning that cold or hot temperatures spread rapidly through the material.
While the copper material of your mug doesn’t actually make the drink colder, it makes it seem colder than it would if you were drinking it out of a regular glass or mug.
If you don’t have copper mugs at home, you can get by with a regular cocktail glass. If you’re shopping for copper mugs, be sure to buy food-safe mugs that are not copper on the inside. Copper leaches into acidic foods and poses health risks, yikes!

Classic Moscow Mule
Equipment
- Serving mug (copper preferred)
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- For the garnish: lime wheel or wedge, fresh mint (if desired)
Instructions
- In a copper mug or glass, pour in the vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer.
- Add ice and garnish with a lime slice. Serve immediately.