Kentucky Mule Cocktail Recipe

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This Kentucky Mule might be my favorite twist on the classic Moscow Mule cocktail. With just ginger beer, lime juice, and bourbon whiskey to replace the traditional vodka, this 3 ingredient cocktail recipe is super easy to make. This refreshing zippy cocktail is perfect for any occasion, from evening drinks on a patio to a cozy dinner party.

What is a Kentucky Mule?

The Kentucky Mule is a bourbon centric simple spin on the classic Moscow Mule recipe made with vodka. A mule cocktail consists of spirits like bourbon, vodka, or tequila, plus spicy ginger beer, and fresh lime juice.

Since this bourbon mule only requires 3 main ingredients, it’s one of the easiest cocktails to make and shop for. You’ll just need simple ingredients like your favorite bourbon along with some ginger beer and fresh lime juice. Don’t forget ice – lots of ice! 

You don’t need a cocktail shaker, just make the drink in the cocktail glass.  If you’re a bourbon lover like me, then you’ll love this Kentucky twist on a Moscow mule. Try a Blackberry Bourbon Smash or more Moscow Mule variations next.

Ingredients

See the recipe card for exact amounts.

• Bourbon: The alcohol for this Kentucky mule recipe is, of course, Kentucky Bourbon. The best bourbon for this drink is one that you like. I like Larceny Bourbon, but a few of my other favorites are Bulleit Bourbon, Evan Williams, Maker’s Mark, and Woodford Reserve. Use what you like, but make sure it’s a Kentucky bourbon for this cocktail.
• Ginger beer: This adds gingery spicy flavors to mule recipes.
• Lime: I prefer fresh-squeezed lime juice for it’s vibrant flavor, but if you only have bottled, try it. You could also try lemon juice if you prefer it.
• Garnish: I like to garnish with a lime wedge or lime wheel and a sprig of mint.

Substitutions

• Ginger beer: If you’re not a fan of ginger beer with its super gingery, slightly spicy flavor, try using ginger ale instead. Or you could try adding a simple syrup when using ginger beer to sweeten it up a bit.

Instructions

1. Start with a glass full of ice. You can use the classic copper mug if you have it, otherwise, just use a regular cocktail glass.
2. Add 2 ounces of Bourbon, followed by freshly squeezed lime juice. 
3. Top the glass with ginger beer.
4. Garnish with a twist of lime and fresh mint leaves.

Tips for making a Kentucky Mule Cocktail

What to serve with a Kentucky Mule

I think appetizers are a great accompaniment to cocktails, especially this refreshing bourbon-based drink. Try making a platter with some tortilla chips, hummus, soft pretzels and beer cheese sauce, cauliflower bites, and portobello mushroom fries. Or search my appetizer category and create your platter for a cocktail hour get-together.

Other Moscow Mule Variations

The classic cocktail has many different variations and I’ve got recipes for a few of them on my website. If you’re looking for a tequila-based drink, try this Mexican Mule recipe. If gin is more your thing, try this London Mule recipe. For something festive, try my Christmas Mule recipe with cranberry juice.

Storage

This drink is best made one at a time. I wouldn’t recommend making a pitcher unless you are serving the entire pitcher immediately because the ginger beer is carbonated and will go flat if it sits too long.

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