The Kentucky Mule is a bold, refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule. By swapping vodka for bourbon, this version brings a warm, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the zing of ginger beer and the brightness of fresh lime. It’s a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that’s perfect year-round—whether you’re cooling off on a summer day or cozying up by the fire.

Why Make This Recipe

If you love bourbon and enjoy a cocktail with a little kick, the Kentucky Mule is a must-try. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires just a few ingredients, and delivers big on flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a quick evening drink, this recipe hits the mark every time.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• ½ oz fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
• 4–6 oz ginger beer (to taste)
• Ice
• Lime wedge or mint sprig (for garnish)
• Copper mug or cocktail glass (optional, but traditional)

Directions:

• First, fill a copper mug or cocktail glass with ice to chill it.
• Pour in the bourbon and fresh lime juice.
• Top off with ginger beer. Start with 4 oz and adjust to taste.
• Give the drink a gentle stir to mix the ingredients.
• Garnish with a lime wedge or a sprig of mint if desired.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the spicy-smooth flavor!

How to Serve a Kentucky Mule

This cocktail is traditionally served in a chilled copper mug, which keeps it icy cold and enhances the overall experience. But if you don’t have one, any sturdy glass will work. Pair it with salty snacks like peanuts or pretzels, or serve as a pre-dinner drink to awaken the palate.

How to Store a Kentucky Mule

Since this is a freshly mixed cocktail, it’s best enjoyed immediately. However, you can pre-mix the bourbon and lime juice in a sealed container and keep it in the fridge for a few hours. Just add the ginger beer and ice right before serving to maintain the fizz.

Tips to Make the Perfect Kentucky Mule

• Use a good-quality bourbon for the best flavor—something smooth but not too sweet.
• Always use fresh lime juice—it makes a big difference.
• Chill your mug or glass beforehand for an extra-cold drink.
• Adjust the ginger beer to suit your spice and sweetness preferences.

Variations

• Spicy Mule: Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a dash of chili bitters for a spicy kick.
• Maple Mule: Add ½ oz of pure maple syrup for a sweeter, fall-inspired twist.
• Smoky Mule: Use a smoked bourbon or add a splash of mezcal for extra depth.

Kentucky Mule

The Kentucky Mule is a bold, refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule. By swapping vodka for bourbon, this version brings a warm, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the zing of ginger beer and the brightness of fresh lime. It’s a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that’s perfect year-round—whether you’re cooling off on a summer day or cozying up by the fire.

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Ingredients

  

• 2 oz bourbon
• ½ oz fresh lime juice about half a lime
• 4 –6 oz ginger beer to taste
• Ice
• Lime wedge or mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

 

• First, fill a copper mug or cocktail glass with ice to chill it.
• Pour in the bourbon and fresh lime juice.
• Top off with ginger beer. Start with 4 oz and adjust to taste.
• Give the drink a gentle stir to mix the ingredients.
• Garnish with a lime wedge or a sprig of mint if desired.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the spicy-smooth flavor!

Notes

How to Serve a Kentucky Mule

This cocktail is traditionally served in a chilled copper mug, which keeps it icy cold and enhances the overall experience. But if you don’t have one, any sturdy glass will work. Pair it with salty snacks like peanuts or pretzels, or serve as a pre-dinner drink to awaken the palate.

How to Store a Kentucky Mule
Since this is a freshly mixed cocktail, it’s best enjoyed immediately. However, you can pre-mix the bourbon and lime juice in a sealed container and keep it in the fridge for a few hours. Just add the ginger beer and ice right before serving to maintain the fizz.

Tips to Make the Perfect Kentucky Mule

Use a good-quality bourbon for the best flavor—something smooth but not too sweet.

Always use fresh lime juice—it makes a big difference.

Chill your mug or glass beforehand for an extra-cold drink.

Adjust the ginger beer to suit your spice and sweetness preferences.

Variations

Spicy Mule: Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a dash of chili bitters for a spicy kick.

Maple Mule: Add ½ oz of pure maple syrup for a sweeter, fall-inspired twist.

Smoky Mule: Use a smoked bourbon or add a splash of mezcal for extra depth.

Keyword bourbon, fresh lime juice, ginger beer, Lime wedge, mint sprig

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FAQs

Q: Can I use a different whiskey instead of bourbon?
A: Yes! You can use rye whiskey or even Scotch for a different flavor profile, but bourbon is the classic choice for a Kentucky Mule.

Q: Can I make this as a pitcher drink for a party?
A: Absolutely. Mix the bourbon and lime juice ahead of time, then top with ginger beer just before serving to keep it fizzy.

Q: Do I have to use a copper mug?
A: It’s traditional and helps keep the drink cold, but not required. Any chilled glass will do the trick!