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Easy Cranberry Moscow Mule for a Crowd – Budget Party Drink

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A tart, fizzy, and budget-friendly cranberry Moscow mule made in a pitcher, perfect for holiday gatherings, game day, or any party. This easy recipe comes together in under 10 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (960 ml) 100% cranberry juice
  • 4 cups (960 ml) ginger beer
  • 2 cups (480 ml) vodka (mid-range, e.g., Tito’s or Smirnoff)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh lime juice (from about 4–5 limes)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) simple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1 cup (120 g) fresh cranberries (for garnish)
  • Lime slices (for garnish)
  • Fresh mint sprigs (optional, for garnish)
  • Ice (large cubes or an ice block)

Instructions

  1. Make the simple syrup (if using): In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar and 1/2 cup (120 ml) water. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature. (Can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.)
  2. Squeeze the limes: Roll each lime firmly on the countertop before cutting. Cut them in half and juice until you have 1/2 cup (120 ml). Strain out any seeds.
  3. Combine the liquids in your pitcher: Pour in the cranberry juice, ginger beer, vodka, and fresh lime juice. If using simple syrup, add it now.
  4. Stir gently but thoroughly: Use a long spoon to stir slowly to avoid losing too much carbonation from the ginger beer.
  5. Add ice: Fill the pitcher about halfway with ice. For a party, keep the ice on the side and let guests add their own to prevent dilution.
  6. Garnish and serve: Drop in fresh cranberries and lime slices. If using mint, gently slap the sprigs between your hands to release the oils before adding them.
  7. Pour into glasses: Fill each glass with ice, then pour the mule mixture over it. Garnish each glass with an extra lime wheel and a few cranberries if desired.

Notes

For best results, chill all ingredients beforehand to reduce ice dilution. If the drink tastes flat, stir gently and add ice only when serving. For a non-alcoholic version, omit vodka and add extra ginger beer or sparkling water. To keep the drink from getting watery at a party, keep the ice separate and let guests add their own.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry Moscow mule, party drink, budget cocktail, holiday drink, pitcher cocktail, ginger beer cocktail

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/easy-cranberry-moscow-mule-for-a-crowd-budget-party-drink/