The bourbon mule is such a simple twist on the traditional Moscow Mule recipe. It's so perfect for the fall season with the combination of ginger spice and the warm flavors of bourbon.

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The perfect mule cocktail for fall.

The sweet bourbon spice is delicious. It pairs perfectly with the ginger beer spice! It's the perfect combination.

There are so many bourbon mule variations. Seriously SO many! I'll share some more down below, especially ones that are perfect for the holiday season.

It’s such an easy cocktail to make at home. Muddle some mint and lime, add your bourbon and ginger beer and that's it! Could not be easier.

What's the difference between a Kentucky mule and a Moscow mule?

The bourbon mule is also known as the Kentucky mule. The difference between a Kentucky mule and a Moscow mule is the fact that one is made with bourbon and one is made with vodka.

Bourbon mule ingredients

Bourbon. You can pick your favorite bourbon, I really like Bulleit, I find it to be super user-friendly!

Ginger Beer. I always opt for diet ginger beer, which is lower in calories and sugar. I am not picky with brands, and I used the Target brand in this particular recipe and liked it!

Lime. You absolutely need fresh lime, I don't think the fake lime juice can even compare.

Mint. Like the lime, you absolutely need fresh mint. It adds such a nice and refreshing flavor to this cocktail.

How to make a Kentucky Mule

Squeeze half a lime into a copper mug and add 2-3 mint leaves. Muddle.
Fill the copper mug with ice.
Add in 2 oz. of bourbon.
Top with ginger beer.
Garnish with mint leaves.
Cheers!

Bourbon mule variations

You'll want a pen and paper for this section! Here are just a few of the bourbon mule variations that I recommend trying.

Bourbon mule with orange

This citrus bourbon mule from A Communal Table combines whiskey with triple sec, brown sugar and ginger beer. This has Thanksgiving written all over it!

Bourbon mule with lemon

Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks has this refreshing Meyer Lemon Bourbon Mule, but if you don't have Meyer lemons, regular lemons will do just fine!

Bourbon mule with ginger ale

To make a bourbon mule with ginger ale, simply swap out the ginger beer for ginger ale! It'll give it a much sweeter taste if that's what you prefer.

Apple cider bourbon mule

Our Love Language is Food has a simple Apple Cider Bourbon Mule recipe, and I love the idea of making this as a "welcome" cocktail for your guests.

Bourbon cranberry mule

Similar to the apple cider variation, this is so perfect for the holidays. Mad About Food has a cranberry Kentucky mule recipe with candied ginger, yum!

Why serve a mule in a copper mug?

Experts say that the copper in the mug begins to oxidize when the vodka is poured in, which basically enhances the flavor of the vodka. However, the copper takes on the temperature of the drink that's in it, so your mule stays very cold for a very long time. Who doesn't love an ice-cold drink?

Here are some helpful Amazon home finds you may want for your home bar.

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Want some more bourbon cocktail ideas?

Bourbon Mule