This Irish mule recipe is a fun and tasty twist on a classic Moscow mule cocktail. Irish whiskey is mixed with ginger beer, fresh lime and mint. Perfect for a single drink or served in a pitcher for a crowd.

 

If you are looking for a fun, refreshing drink for St. Patrick’s day to maybe serve with some creme de menthe brownies, or to enjoy any time of year, this mule is a delicious option. This isn’t a true traditional Irish cocktail but it’s a tasty drink, especially if you are a whiskey lover.

What you need

This drink includes fresh ingredients that gives this drink a nice, refreshing flavor.

Irish Whiskey – We are swapping out traditional vodka with Irish Whiskey. Jameson is a great choice for whisky but feel free to use your favorite.

Ginger Beer – There are several brands of non-alcoholic ginger beer like Bundaberg, Fever Tree and Powell and Mahoney. It can usually be found in the alcohol mixer or soda section of the grocery store.

Lime Juice – Use fresh lime juice for this cocktail. You can also cut a wedge or lime slice for garnish.

Mint Leaves – This is an optional ingredient. I like the extra layer of flavor it adds to the drink but if you don’t like mint feel free to leave it out.

How to make an Irish Mule

This is a super simple cocktail to make. No shaking required.

1. Place mint leaves in a copper mug and muddle with the back of a wooden spoon. If you would prefer not a lot of mint flavor, just use the mint leaves to garnish.
2. Fill mugs about 1/2 -3/4 full with ice.
3. Pour Irish whiskey, lime juice and ginger beer. Give it a gently stir to combine.
4. Garnish with lime slices and mint leaves.

How to make for a crowd

This Irish mule can be premade in pitchers for a party. To make a pitcher of 6 drinks mix together 6 cups ginger beer, 12 oz Irish whiskey and 1/2 cup lime juice. If you would like more servings, just increase the ingredients as needed.

The key when making larger quantities is to be sure to leave the ice out so it doesn’t melt and dilute the drink.

Recipe tips

• For an extra cold drink, make sure to refrigerate the ginger beer before pouring.
• I recommend serving this drink in a copper mug. They help keep the mule nice and cold while also adding to the fizziness of the mule.
• Try and use fresh lime juice. The fresh lime really takes this drink to the next level. If you are in a pinch, bottled lime juice will work.

Can I use American whiskey?

Yes, you could substitute American whiskey. The difference between Irish and American whiskey is the main ingredient used. The Irish use barley while Americans use wheat, corn or rye. Irish whiskey is also known to be smooth and less sweet than it’s American counterpart.

Variations

If you are wanting to try a little something different, here are a few variations.

Mocktail Mule: If you would like to make an Irish Mule mocktail version, leave out the whiskey and add a little extra lime juice and mint.

Dublin Mule: Replace the lime juice with 2-3 dashes of citrus bitters.

Kentucky Mule: Replace Irish whiskey with bourbon for an American twist.

Ginger Ale: If you prefer the milder taste of ginger ale, use that to replace ginger beer.

More cocktail recipes

If you are looking for some easy cocktail recipe, be sure to try out some of our other favorites.

• Cranberry Moscow Mule – A fun holiday mule made with cranberry juice.
• Malibu Sunset – A fruity, tropical cocktail.
• Midori Sour – Fun, melon flavored drink made with Midori.
• Salted Caramel Martini – Creamy martini made with RumChata.
• Lemon Drop – A crowd favorite, sweet and sour drink.
• Bay Breeze – A classic Malibu drink great for the summer.