Kentucky Mule Recipe
This easy-to-make Kentucky Mule features the bold flavors of bourbon, spicy ginger beer, and tangy lime, served in a frosty copper mug. It’s a guaranteed hit for relaxed evenings or festive gatherings.
Equipment
- Copper mug (optional, for tradition and better chill)
- Jigger (for accurate measuring)
- Bar spoon (for gentle stirring) (for gentle stirring
- Handheld citrus juicer or reamer (for fresh lime juice)
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 4 –6 oz ginger beer
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice about half a lime
- Ice as needed
- Optional garnish: lime wedge or mint sprig
Instructions
Chill the Mug
- Place your copper mug in the freezer for a few minutes, or fill it with ice and water to make it extra frosty before you start. This helps keep your drink at the perfect icy temperature.
Measure Bourbon
- Using a jigger, measure out 2 ounces of bourbon and pour it into your chilled copper mug. This precise measurement ensures a balanced flavor.
Add Lime Juice
- Juice half of a fresh lime (approximately 0.5 oz) using a handheld citrus juicer or reamer. Pour the lime juice into your mug, and stir gently to mingle with the bourbon.
Top with Ginger Beer
- Tilt the mug slightly and slowly pour 4–6 ounces of ginger beer. Pouring at an angle preserves the carbonation and helps maintain a bubbly, refreshing texture.
Stir and Garnish
- Give the mixture a gentle stir with a bar spoon. Once blended, add a handful of ice if needed. Garnish with a lime wedge or a sprig of mint, then serve and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Fresh Lime is Key: Bottled lime juice can dull the cocktail’s brightness; always use fresh lime for best results.
- Experiment with Bourbons: Different bourbons offer varied sweetness or spiciness, affecting your drink’s overall taste.
- Ice Quality: Large ice cubes or ice spheres melt slower, preserving the cocktail’s ideal balance.
- Swap-In Options: While a classic Kentucky Mule uses ginger beer, ginger ale can be substituted in a pinch, albeit with a milder flavor.
- Seasonal Flair: Add apple cider for an autumn spin or a splash of cranberry juice during the holidays for a festive twist.
