Make this easy virgin Moscow mule mocktail with ginger beer, fresh mint and tangy lime juice. It’s a refreshing non-alcoholic drink that can be made in just 5 minutes.
Looking for an easy virgin mule recipe? This mocktail mule has the kick of the classic cocktail but without the alcohol.
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Why this recipe works
Spicy ginger makes for a refreshing mocktail that’s perfect on a hot day. With little prep work required, it’s an easy mocktail that anyone can make. You’ll love this non-alcoholic Moscow mule because it’s:
- Fast: with no shaking required and minimal preparation, this virgin Moscow mule is deliciously simple. .
- Easy: with minimal and accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for parties, or last-minute guests.
- Healthy: choose a low-sugar ginger beer, and you have a healthy non-alcoholic alternative.
- Gorgeous: I’ll say it again - there really is something about the presentation of these beauties. Given I’m a lover of anything rose gold, these virgin Moscow mule mocktails are right up my alley!
What is a Moscow mule mocktail?
Traditionally, Moscow mules are an alcoholic cocktail made with ginger beer, vodka, lime and soda.
They are served in beautiful copper mugs called mule mugs. The copper mugs boost the aroma and enhance the flavor of the vodka.
Virgin Moscow mules are served with lots of ice, making them the perfect Summer mocktail.
This mocktail mule is made without vodka and some extra lime and mint to give it a kick. In fact, it’s called a mule because the spicy ginger is a flavorful kick to the palate.
A virgin Moscow mule isn’t just a summer drink. The warmth and spice of the ginger also lends itself to the cooler months. It would even make a great Christmas mocktail regardless of the season.
Ingredients
This virgin Moscow mule recipe is delicious and simple. Best of all, you’ll easily find these ingredients at the grocery store.
- Ginger beer: sweet and spicy, ginger beer is the hero of this drink. Select a brewed ginger beer for depth of taste. Use a diet or low-sugar ginger beer to reduce the sugar content. Don’t be tempted to use ginger ale as a substitute. It just won’t taste the same.
- Fresh mint: a few leaves of fresh mint works perfectly to balance the ginger and lime.
- Fresh lime: you can’t beat fresh lime juice. It tastes fantastic with the earthy ginger ale. I used fresh lime juice in this recipe and added some lime wheels for garnish. If you can’t find fresh limes, bottled works too. However, it won’t taste quite the same.
- Non-alcoholic vodka (optional): if you have a favorite non-alcoholic vodka feel free to add it to your virgin Moscow mule. This ingredient is optional, so feel free to skip it.
Equipment You’ll Need
There’s something special about this virgin Moscow mule in its gorgeous copper mug. But if you don’t have the mugs, don’t stress - they still look and taste fabulous in regular glasses.
- Copper mugs: a Moscow mule mug is the traditional choice. These pretty copper mugs do a great job of keeping your drink cool and deliciously bead with condensation when filled with ice. They’re not essential to the drink, so feel free to use a highball glass or any glass you have on hand.
- Muddler: a muddler makes light work of releasing the juice from the lime. If you don’t have a muddler, the back end of a wooden spoon works too.
How to make it
1. Place the lime and sweetener (if using) in your mug or glass.
2. Muddle until the juice is released from the lime. If you don't have a muddler, use the back end of a wooden spoon or similar.
3. Add the alcohol free vodka (if using).
4. Clap the mint together in your hands a few times and add to your mug or glass. Give it a gentle press with the muddler.
5. Add plenty of cubed or crushed ice, then add ginger beer. Stir gently.
4. Garnish with mint and additional lime wheels.
FAQ's
A virgin Moscow mule is best enjoyed icy cold. A copper mug helps to keep the temperature, flavor and aroma of the drink intact. The handled mug also keeps warm hands away from the cool drink, which is essential on a warm day.
Other mocktails, such as my mint julep mocktail, also use a metal cup to keep them cold. Unlike a mule mug, a julep cup is usually stainless steel, conical in shape and without a handle.
Traditionally ginger beer was an alcoholic brew. These days most ginger beers are non-alcoholic. Ginger beer is made by brewing ginger root for several days for a zingy, earthy flavor. Pick a high-quality ginger beer from the grocery store for the best Moscow mules.
If you fall in love with this virgin mule recipe, then you may like to invest in some pretty mule mugs. If it’s more of an occasional drink, or you’re trying it for the first time, a high ball glass is the most common alternative.
Ideally, you want to keep your virgin Moscow mule as cool as possible, so even a mason jar with a handle would be a good option.
Expert tips
- A good quality ginger beer is a must for this recipe. Don’t replace it with ginger ale. It just won’t taste the same!
- Did you know that muddling your mint too much can cause it to release a bitter taste? Clapping the mint in your hands before placing it in your drink will ensure the oils and minty goodness begin to release. Then you only need to press on it very gently 2-3 times with your muddler once you place it in your glass.
- If you have a non-alcoholic vodka you love, you can definitely use it for this recipe. I personally find that I don’t need it. The spicy ginger is enough of a kick for me.
Love ginger mocktails? Try these:
I hope you love this virgin Moscow mule as much as I do, it really is one of the best mocktails!
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Virgin Moscow Mule Mocktail
Ingredients
- 1 Lime quartered
- 6-8 Mint leaves
- 1 cup Diet ginger beer (or regular if you prefer)
- 1 oz Alcohol-free vodka (optional - see other options below)
- Sweetener of choice (optional)
Instructions
- Muddle the lime and sweetener (if using) in your mug or glass until the juice is released from the lime. If you don't have a muddler, use the back end of a wooden spoon or similar.
- Add the alcohol-free vodka (if using).
- Clap the mint together in your hands and add to your glass. Give it a gentle press with the muddler.
- Add plenty of ice, then add ginger beer. Stir gently.
- Garnish with mint and additional lime wheels.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
NUTRITIONAL VALUES ARE ESTIMATES ONLY AND DO NOT INCLUDE CARBS FROM SUGAR ALCOHOLS.
Ange says
This was just delicious, and so easy too! Thanks so much.
The Mindful Mocktail says
My pleasure Ange. Moscow mules are my favourite!
Jess Martin says
I tried this delicious recipe on a hot summers day with friends by the pool. It was so easy and an absolute crowd pleaser! 10 out of 10!
The Mindful Mocktail says
I'm so glad you enjoyed your Moscow mule Jess, and thanks for taking the time to leave a review!
Vicki says
This Moscow Mule Mocktail is so easy to make and Thankyou for this delicious recipe !
The Mindful Mocktail says
Thanks for your comment Vicki, I'm so pleased you enjoyed it!