Refreshing Blueberry Mule

Today we are making a blueberry mule, a fun twist on the classic moscow mule. The added blueberries make this perfect for a refreshing summer drink.

The Blueberry Moscow Mule cocktail combines the zing of spicy ginger beer with the smoothness of vodka, and packed with blueberry flavor. Add a bit of fresh mint and it's a refreshing, drink that's as fun to make as it is to sip.

Perfect for a summer evening, a fancy brunch, or just a relaxing night in, this cocktail is sure to tantalize your taste buds and add a pop of color to your drink repertoire.

Jump to:

• What You'll Love About This Drink
• Glassware and Equipment
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Garnish Ideas
• Top Tip
• Substitutions
• Variations
• Recipe

What You'll Love About This Drink

• The Freshness: The use of fresh blueberries and lime juice creates a drink that's bursting with fresh flavors.
• The Visual Appeal: Its stunning color makes it not just a drink, but a centerpiece.
• The Versatility: Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant parties.
• The Easy Customization: You can easily adjust the sweetness or the strength of the ginger flavor to suit your taste.

Glassware and Equipment

• Moscow Mule Mug or Highball Glass: Traditionally served in a copper mug, but a highball glass works just as well.
• Cocktail Shaker: Essential for combining your ingredients smoothly. If you don't have one, a jar with a tight-fitting lid can be a great alternative.
• Muddler: For mashing the blueberries. If you don’t have a muddler, the back of a spoon can work.
• Strainer: To ensure a smooth drink. If you don't have a strainer, a small sieve will do the job.
• Jigger: For measuring, but measuring spoons or a shot glass can substitute.

Ingredients

Fresh Blueberries: Choose fresh, ripe blueberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness. If fresh isn't available, frozen blueberries can also work, though they may slightly alter the texture of the drink.

Vodka: A good quality vodka will make a difference. Look for a brand that's smooth and not too harsh, as it should complement rather than overpower the other flavors. You could use blueberry vodka for even more blueberry flavor.

Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is crucial for that fresh, tangy kick. Avoid bottled lime juice if possible, as it can have a more artificial flavor.

Blueberry Syrup: Homemade blueberry simple syrup is the best for flavor and sweetness control. Simply simmer equal parts water, sugar, and blueberries until the sugar dissolves and the berries burst, then strain. If you're short on time, a store-bought blueberry syrup can work in a pinch.

Ginger Beer: Look for a ginger beer that's spicy and not too sweet to balance the sweetness of the blueberries and syrup. The ginger beer should be fizzy to add the signature effervescence of a Moscow Mule. (This is NOT the same as ginger ale!)

Instructions

Prepare the Blueberries: In your shaker, muddle about half a cup of blueberries until they are well mashed. This releases their juice and infuses the flavor into the drink.

Combine Ingredients: To the muddled blueberries, add 2 ounces of vodka, half an ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice, and half an ounce of blueberry syrup.

Shake: Add a generous amount of ice to the shaker and close it securely. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. The shaking not only chills the drink but also helps to combine the flavors.

Strain: Strain the mixture into a Moscow Mule mug or a highball glass filled with fresh ice. The straining process helps to keep the muddled blueberries out of your drink for a smoother texture.

Top Up: Gently pour ginger beer over the mixture until the glass is nearly full. This should be done slowly to maintain the ginger beer's fizz.

Stir: Use a bar spoon or a regular spoon to stir the drink gently. This helps to mix the ginger beer with the vodka mixture without losing too much carbonation.

Garnish and serve: Finally, garnish your mule and serve! Blueberries and mint are my favorite garnishes for this cocktail recipe.

Garnish Ideas

Want some more garnish ideas for your blueberry mule? Here are some great ones that pair well with the flavors.

Lime Wedge: Adds a fresh, citrus aroma and a pop of color. Squeeze a bit over the drink for an extra zesty flavor.
Extra Blueberries: Skewer a few blueberries on a cocktail pick or simply float them on top for an added fruity touch and visual appeal.
Mint Sprig: A mint sprig not only looks great but also adds a refreshing aroma. Slap the mint between your hands before adding it to the drink to release its essential oils.
Edible Flowers: For a more elegant presentation, edible flowers can add a splash of color and a touch of sophistication.

Top Tip

Chill Everything: The key to a refreshing Blueberry Moscow Mule lies in its temperature. Chill your Moscow Mule mug or highball glass, as well as your ingredients (blueberries, vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer) before mixing. A chilled drink enhances the flavors and makes every sip delightfully frosty.

Substitutions

1. Berry Varieties: If blueberries aren't your favorite or are not available, try raspberries, blackberries, or even strawberries for a different berry experience. Each berry brings its own unique flavor and color to the drink.
2. Alcohol-Free: For a non-alcoholic version, omit the vodka and replace it with a splash of soda water or non-alcoholic ginger beer. This variation maintains the flavor profile while making it suitable for all ages and occasions.
3. Different Sweeteners: If you don't have blueberry syrup, you can use honey, agave syrup, or even a simple sugar syrup. Each sweetener will add a different depth and type of sweetness to the drink.
4. Citrus Twist: While lime juice is traditional, lemon juice can be a great alternative, offering a slightly different citrus note.

Variations

1. Spicy Blueberry Moscow Mule: Add a thin slice or two of jalapeño to the shaker with the blueberries for a drink with a kick. The spiciness of the jalapeño complements the sweetness of the blueberries and the zing of the ginger beer.
2. Herbal Twist: Incorporate herbs like basil or thyme by muddling them with the blueberries. These herbs can add an interesting aromatic depth to the cocktail.
3. Frozen Blueberry Mule Slush: Blend the vodka, lime juice, blueberry syrup, and blueberries with ice to create a slushy version. Top with ginger beer after pouring into the glass.
4. Blueberry Moscow Mule Punch: For larger gatherings, multiply the recipe and mix in a large punch bowl. Add slices of lime and whole blueberries for a visually appealing party drink.