What goes in a cranberry Moscow Mule?

A cranberry Moscow Mule mocktail typically includes cranberry juice, ginger beer, and fresh citrus such as lime or orange. Ice is essential for serving it cold and crisp, while garnishes like fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, or mint leaves add a festive look. The key is balance: the cranberry juice provides tartness , the ginger beer adds fizz and spice , and the citrus juice enhances freshness . While a traditional Moscow Mule uses vodka, the mocktail version skips the alcohol but keeps the refreshing bite that makes it a holiday favorite. You can also customize the base by blending cranberry juice with apple cider or pomegranate juice for a seasonal twist.

What are the three ingredients in cranberry mocktail?

At its core, a cranberry mocktail is built on three main ingredients: Cranberry juice – the tart, fruity base. Ginger beer – adds effervescence and spicy depth. Citrus juice – either lime or orange, to brighten the flavor. These three simple components make the cranberry Moscow Mule mocktail easy to prepare but still impressive to serve. You can elevate it further by garnishing with fresh fruit, sugared cranberries, or a sprig of rosemary . For those who want more variety, swapping ginger beer for sparkling water can create a lighter, kid-friendly version.

How to make cranberry mocktail?

Making a cranberry mocktail is as easy as layering flavors in a chilled mug. First, fill the glass with ice. Next, squeeze a wedge of citrus (lime or orange) over the ice to release fresh juice. Then pour in cranberry juice followed by ginger beer . Stir gently and garnish with cranberries or orange slices . The best part? This process takes under 5 minutes . It’s a no-fuss recipe that’s ideal for last-minute gatherings, holiday dinners, or even weeknight treats. For variety, you can experiment with flavors by adding apple cider, cinnamon syrup, or a dash of pomegranate juice .

What is a Moscow Mule mocktail?

A Moscow Mule mocktail is the alcohol-free version of the classic Moscow Mule cocktail. Instead of vodka, it uses fruit juices like cranberry, apple, or pomegranate, paired with ginger beer and citrus . It delivers the same crisp, fizzy, and spicy refreshment as the original but makes it accessible for kids, non-drinkers, and family-friendly gatherings. The cranberry Moscow Mule mocktail is one of the most popular variations because cranberries highlight the seasonal flavors of fall and winter holidays . It’s a versatile drink that can be served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even New Year’s Eve. With its festive color and bold taste, it feels like a special drink while staying non-alcoholic.

The Best Cranberry Moscow Mule Mocktail

Name: Cranberry Moscow Mule Mocktail
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American / Holiday
Ingredients: 1 wedge orange (or lime, for tartness); 2 oz cranberry juice (100% pure preferred); 4 oz ginger beer (non-alcoholic); Ice cubes, for serving; Fresh cranberries (optional garnish); Cinnamon stick (optional garnish); Orange slice or rosemary sprig (optional garnish)

Description

This Cranberry Moscow Mule Mocktail is the ultimate festive holiday drink. Made with tart cranberry juice, fizzy ginger beer, and a squeeze of citrus, it’s refreshing, easy, and alcohol-free—perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any fall and winter gathering. Garnished with sugared cranberries, cinnamon sticks, or orange wedges, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

1 wedge orange (or lime, for tartness)
2 oz cranberry juice (100% pure preferred)
4 oz ginger beer (non-alcoholic)
Ice cubes, for serving
Fresh cranberries (optional garnish)
Cinnamon stick (optional garnish)
Orange slice or rosemary sprig (optional garnish)

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Instructions

Fill a copper mug or glass with ice.
Squeeze the orange wedge over the ice to release fresh juice.
Pour in cranberry juice, then top with ginger beer.
Stir gently to combine.
Garnish with cranberries, a cinnamon stick, and an orange slice. Serve immediately.

Notes

Make it lighter: Use sparkling water instead of ginger beer for a less sweet version.
Big-batch holiday punch: Multiply ingredients and serve in a pitcher or punch bowl for parties.
Festive garnish: Add sugared cranberries or rosemary sprigs for a holiday-worthy presentation.
Flavor twist: Mix in a splash of apple cider or pomegranate juice for added seasonal flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Drinks / Mocktails
Method: Stirred (no-cook)
Cuisine: American / Holiday

Nutrition

Serving Size: per serving
Calories: 65 kcal
Sugar: 17 g
Sodium: 9 mg
Fat: 1 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 17 g
Protein: 1 g