Kentucky Mule Cocktail

Name: Kentucky Mule Cocktail
Prep time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Ingredients: 1-1/2 ounces Kentucky bourbon; 1/2 8-oz. can ginger beer; 1/2 oz. fresh lime juice; lime slices and mint (for garnish); 1-1/2 oz. apple cider or apple juice; 1/2 8-oz can ginger beer; 1/2 oz. fresh lime juice; lime slices and mint (for garnish)

This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

A simple twist on a traditional Moscow Mule using bourbon instead of vodka.

Invite your family and friends to join you for a casual evening on the patio with this delightfully cold and refreshing Kentucky Mule Cocktail.

close up of a copper mug filled with ice, a drink and garnished with fresh mint

Reasons To Make A Signature Cocktail

You’ll stand out with your guests when you take the time to serve a special cocktail made just for them. When they walk in the door offer them your special drink and I promise they will immediately feel welcomed and at ease.
Having a signature cocktail for the evening also allows you to control your budget. You won’t need to stock up on a lot of extra liquors and mixes – just buy what you needed for the special drink of the evening.
Don’t worry if someone doesn’t like the ingredients; you won’t go wrong my also serving beer, wine, soda, and water. There will be something for everyone.
A signature cocktail allows you to put a personal twist and personality into a drink. Just like this cocktail which is my twist on a traditional Moscow Mule that I made for a Kentucky Derby party.

Only Four Ingredients Needed

Photo showing ingredients in a Kentucky Mule Cocktail

Bourbon – We like Makers Mark Bourbon which is a full-bodied bourbon with a smooth taste. It is also known as a Kentucky straight bourbon so it’s the natural choice for this cocktail.
Ginger Beer – There are a lot of ginger beer brands. The one I use most often is Gosling’s Ginger Beer. It’s sold in my local grocery store. It’s sweet, a bit spicy, and super fizzy.
Fresh Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed juice is a must!
Fresh Mint – Fresh Mint is a signature of a mule cocktail. And believe me, it’s fantastic when you get that bright menthol smell right before the smooth cocktail hits your lips. It’s a must-have ingredient.

How To Make This Cocktail

Fill a copper mug or cocktail glass with ice.
Add bourbon.
Add lime juice.
Top with ginger beer.
Garnish with fresh mint and a lime slice.

Copper mug filled with ice and a shot of bourbon in front with the bottle of bourbon in background

Frequently Asked Questions

Are whiskey and bourbon the same thing?

Bourbons contain over 50% corn and are made in the US. Whiskey is actually Scotch Whiskey and are made in Scotland using mostly malted barley.

What is ginger beer?

Ginger beer is a carbonated soda drink. I does not contain any alcohol. It has a bold ginger flavor but is sweet and a bit sugary with a punch of spice.

Can I substitute ginger ale for ginger beer?

Absolutely! The ginger ale will give you a smoother, less spicy flavor.

Why are “mule” drinks served in copper mugs?

Because they look so cool! Actually I would say it’s because the copper mugs act as insulation to keep the drink ice-cold. You can serve a mule in any type of glass but let’s face it, copper mugs really elevate the drink and the experience.

Krazy Kitchen Mom Cocktail Tips

When making any type of cocktail, start by filling the glass with ice. Next, pour the liquor over the ice so it immediately cools. Then add any juices or syrups and finally top the drink off with soda or water and add a garnish. You won’t go wrong with this simple formula for building a great cocktail.
I love different glassware and I don’t spend a fortune. I shop thrift shops, yard sales, and even the Goodwill for fun and pretty glassware for all types of drinks.
Bonus – Make this cocktail a mocktail. Substitute the bourbon with ginger beer or omit it altogether – it’s that easy.

close up of a drink in a copper mug garnished with mint

More Delicious Cocktails