Get ready to kick up your cocktail game with these 18 refreshing Kentucky Mule recipes that add a little twist to the classic! The original recipe, made with bourbon or rye whiskey, ginger beer, and lime juice, is already a crowd-pleaser. But why stop there? By incorporating unique flavors and ingredients, you can create a whole new world of delicious drinks that are perfect for any occasion.
From spicy jalapeño to sweet peach, and from tangy apple cider to fruity blackberry mint, we’ve gathered the most innovative and mouth-watering Kentucky Mule recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. Whether you’re looking for a summer sipper or a wintertime warmer, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Classic Kentucky Mule with Fresh Ginger
Experience the spicy twist on the classic cocktail by incorporating fresh ginger into your Kentucky Mule recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Bourbon Whiskey
– 4 oz Ginger Beer
– Juice of 1 Lime (about 1/2 oz)
– Slice of Fresh Ginger (about 1/4 inch thick, for garnish)
– Ice
– Lime wheel (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the bourbon whiskey and ginger beer.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and drop the spent lime wedge into the glass.
4. Stir gently to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Garnish with a slice of fresh ginger and a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and enjoy!
Spicy Jalapeño Kentucky Mule
This twist on the classic Kentucky Mule cocktail adds a spicy kick with the addition of jalapeño simple syrup. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their drinks.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz lime juice
– 1/2 oz jalapeño simple syrup (see below)
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Ice
Jalapeño Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2-3 slices of fresh jalapeño pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add sliced jalapeños to the simple syrup and remove from heat. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
4. Add bourbon whiskey, lime juice, and jalapeño simple syrup.
5. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None
Bourbon Peach Kentucky Mule
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and tangy bourbon peach mule that combines the warmth of bourbon with the juiciness of peaches. This refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule is perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz peach puree
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Sprig of mint, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add bourbon, lime juice, and peach puree.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
4. Squeeze a lime wheel over the drink and drop it in.
5. Garnish with a sprig of mint.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just 2 minutes.
Apple Cider Kentucky Mule
This seasonal spin on the classic Kentucky Mule combines the warmth of apple cider with the bold flavors of bourbon and lime, perfect for cozying up on a crisp fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 4 oz apple cider
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– 1/2 oz ginger beer
– Ice
– Lime wheel and cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the bourbon, apple cider, and lime juice.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and cinnamon stick.
Cooking Time: None required! Just mix and serve.
Blackberry Mint Kentucky Mule
A refreshing twist on the classic Kentucky Mule cocktail, this Blackberry Mint version combines the sweetness of blackberries with the cooling flavor of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz blackberry puree
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 3/4 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup crushed ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
– Blackberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with crushed ice.
2. Add the bourbon, blackberry puree, lime juice, ginger liqueur, and simple syrup.
3. Stir gently to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a few blackberries.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, so you don’t need any cooking time. Just mix and serve!
Cucumber Lime Kentucky Mule
This revitalizing cocktail combines the spicy kick of bourbon with the cooling essence of cucumber and lime, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3-4 slices of cucumber, thinly sliced
– Ice
– Lime wheel and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add bourbon, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Add three to four slices of cucumber to the glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and mint sprig.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, not a cooking one!
Pineapple Coconut Kentucky Mule
This refreshing cocktail combines the spicy warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of pineapple and coconut, perfect for sipping on a warm evening or at your next tropical-themed party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz pineapple juice
– 1/2 oz coconut cream
– 3 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime
– Ice
– Pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add bourbon, pineapple juice, and coconut cream.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Squeeze in the lime juice.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Maple Bourbon Kentucky Mule
Maple Bourbon Kentucky Mule Recipe
Get ready to experience a twist on the classic cocktail with this Maple Bourbon Kentucky Mule recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz maple syrup
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the bourbon whiskey and maple syrup.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
4. Squeeze in the lime juice and drop in the lime wheel.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Smoky Rosemary Kentucky Mule
Experience the bold flavors of the Bluegrass State with this twist on the classic Moscow Mule. This Smoky Rosemary Kentucky Mule combines the spicy warmth of smoky bourbon with the herbal freshness of rosemary, all wrapped up in a refreshing ginger beer package.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Smoked Bourbon Whiskey
– 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
– 1/2 oz Rosemary Syrup (see note)
– 4 oz Ginger Beer
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Sprig of rosemary, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the smoked bourbon, lime juice, and rosemary syrup.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze a lime wheel over the drink and drop it in.
6. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in seconds!)
Grapefruit Honey Kentucky Mule
A twist on the classic Moscow Mule, this refreshing cocktail combines the tanginess of grapefruit with the warmth of honey and bourbon. Perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Kentucky Bourbon
– 1/2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Ice
– Sprig of rosemary or mint, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, grapefruit juice, and honey syrup.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze a lime wheel over the drink and drop it in.
6. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary or mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Cherry Vanilla Kentucky Mule
Experience the sweet and tangy combination of cherry and vanilla flavors infused with the classic spirit of a Kentucky Mule. This unique twist on the classic cocktail is perfect for warm weather or any occasion where you want to add a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Bourbon Whiskey
– 4 oz Ginger Beer
– 1/2 oz Cherry Liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 1/2 oz Vanilla Syrup
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Ice
– Sprig of mint or cherry garnish, optional
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey and ginger beer.
3. Add the cherry liqueur and vanilla syrup.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze a lime wheel over the cocktail and drop it in.
6. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a cherry, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Spiced Pear Kentucky Mule
Spiced Pear Kentucky Mule Recipe
As the seasons change, warm up with a twist on the classic Kentucky Mule cocktail. This Spiced Pear Kentucky Mule combines the bold flavors of bourbon and ginger beer with the sweet warmth of pear puree and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 cup pear puree
– 4 oz ginger beer
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Sprig of rosemary, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon and pear puree.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a copper mug or highball glass filled with ice.
4. Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
5. Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg over the drink, then garnish with a lime wheel and rosemary sprig (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Blueberry Basil Kentucky Mule
Elevate your Mule game with this refreshing Blueberry Basil Kentucky Mule recipe. The sweetness of blueberries pairs perfectly with the subtle earthiness of basil, adding a delightful twist to the classic cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Bourbon
– 4 oz Ginger Beer
– 1/2 cup Fresh or Frozen Blueberries
– 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves
– Lime Wedge (for garnish)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon and ginger beer.
3. Muddle in the blueberries and basil leaves using a muddler or the back of a spoon.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink and drop it in.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparation) | Serving Time: Immediately
Enjoy your Blueberry Basil Kentucky Mule!
Orange Clove Kentucky Mule
This twist on the classic Kentucky Mule adds a burst of citrus and warm spice, making it perfect for adventurous palates. The combination of orange liqueur, clove-infused simple syrup, and ginger beer creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Bourbon Whiskey
– 1 oz Orange Liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 1/2 oz Clove-Infused Simple Syrup (see below for recipe)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Ginger Beer
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Sprig of fresh mint, for garnish
Clove-Infused Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 whole cloves
Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Add whole cloves and let steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain syrup before using.
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add bourbon whiskey, orange liqueur, and clove-infused simple syrup.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir gently.
4. Top with ginger beer and garnish with a lime wheel and sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus steeping time for simple syrup)
Raspberry Lemon Kentucky Mule
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing take on the classic Kentucky Mule, featuring the sweet and tart flavors of raspberry and lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup raspberries, muddled
– 3 oz ginger beer
– Lemon wheel and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir until chilled.
3. Muddle the raspberries in a separate bowl until they release their flavor and color.
4. Add the muddled raspberries to the cocktail and stir gently.
5. Top with ginger beer and stir briefly.
6. Garnish with a lemon wheel and mint sprig.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Caramel Apple Kentucky Mule
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and tangy twist on the classic Kentucky Mule. The combination of caramel apple flavor, crisp bourbon, and spicy ginger beer is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz caramel syrup (or dulce de leche)
– Juice of 1 apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Caramel sauce and crushed pecans, for rimming glass (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a copper mug or highball glass with caramel sauce and crushed pecans, if desired.
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. Add the bourbon, caramel syrup, and apple juice.
4. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze in a lime wheel and drop it in.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Gingerbread Kentucky Mule
Combine the warmth of gingerbread with the tanginess of bourbon and lime, all wrapped up in a spicy package. This unique cocktail is perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
– 4 oz gingerbread syrup (see below for recipe)
– Ice
– Lime wheel and crystallized ginger, for garnish
Gingerbread Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add bourbon, lime juice, and ginger liqueur.
3. Top with gingerbread syrup.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and crystallized ginger.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just 5 minutes.
Peppermint Chocolate Kentucky Mule
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic Kentucky Mule, combining peppermint and chocolate flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps
– 4 ounces ginger beer
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, peppermint schnapps, and white chocolate liqueur.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
4. Squeeze in a lime wheel and drop it in.
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply mix and serve.
Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Chocolate Kentucky Mule!
Summary
Get ready to spice up your cocktail game with these 18 refreshing Kentucky Mule recipes! From classic combinations like Ginger and Bourbon to fruity twists like Peach and Raspberry, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique flavor profiles like Spicy Jalapeño, Apple Cider, and Blackberry Mint, or try bold takes on tradition with Maple Bourbon, Smoky Rosemary, and Grapefruit Honey. Whether you’re a whiskey lover or just looking for a new drink to impress your friends, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.