Description

A festive and refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule, this version incorporates cranberry juice, pear nectar, and a garnish of sugared cranberries. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a special cocktail.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sugared Cranberries (Optional Garnish – Makes Extra):

1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries
1/2 cup water
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided

For the Moscow Mule (per serving):

2 ounces vodka
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce 100% cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
2 ounces pear nectar (see notes)
3 ounces ginger beer, chilled
Ice cubes

Garnishes for Mule:

Lime slices or wedges
Thin pear slices
Sugared Cranberries (from recipe above)

Instructions

1. Make the Sugared Cranberries (Optional Garnish – Allow Drying Time):

Bring 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring for about 30 seconds until the sugar is dissolved.
Remove from heat and stir in the 12 ounces of fresh cranberries until completely coated.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the coated cranberries to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let them dry for at least 1 hour until sticky.
Place the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll the sticky cranberries in the sugar, working in batches, until well coated.
Transfer the sugared cranberries back to the wire rack and let them dry for at least another hour until the sugar coating is hardened. Store loosely covered at room temperature.

2. Make the Cranberry Pear Moscow Mule:

Prepare Mug/Glass: Fill a copper Moscow Mule mug or a highball glass with ice cubes.
Add Ingredients: Pour the vodka, fresh lime juice, cranberry juice, and pear nectar into the prepared mug/glass.
Top with Ginger Beer: Top off the drink with chilled ginger beer.
Stir Gently: Stir gently with a bar spoon or stirrer just to combine the ingredients.
Garnish: Garnish with thin pear slices, sugared cranberries, and a lime slice or wedge.
Serve: Serve immediately.

Notes

Pear Nectar: Pear nectar is typically found in the juice aisle and is thicker and more concentrated than pear juice. If you can only find pear juice, the flavor might be less intense.
Cranberry Juice: Use 100% cranberry juice. If using cranberry juice cocktail (which is sweetened), you might want to reduce or omit any added sweeteners in other parts of a recipe if adapted.
Ginger Beer: Choose a good quality ginger beer with a nice spicy kick.
Sugared Cranberries: This is an optional garnish that adds a festive touch. They require several hours of drying time.
Serving: Moscow Mules are traditionally served in copper mugs, which help keep the drink very cold.
Storage: The cocktail is best enjoyed immediately. Store leftover sugared cranberries as noted.