How to Make a Good Bourbon Mule (Kentucky Mule)

Another day, another bourbon cocktail. That's how the saying goes, right? This bourbon mule cocktail has been on my mind to make for a little while. I so enjoy whiskey mules when dining out (when they're made right) and knew I could recreate one at home. I decided to use bourbon whiskey, specifically because...well, why not? I've asked two [perhaps rhetorical] questions already and haven't even answered any you might have and that's kind of rude. So, let's get into the recipe and address any burning queries, shall we? Sorry--that was another question...

First Off, What is a Bourbon Mule?

You're probably familiar with the Moscow mule, which is a vodka cocktail. (Here's an example of a little twist on the classic Moscow mule I shared a while back.)But did you know there are all kinds of mules? Mexican mules feature tequila, etc. A bourbon mule is also known as a Kentucky mule because bourbon is a Kentucky-born whiskey. A basic mule recipe consists of liquor, lime juice, and ginger beer and it's usually served in a copper mule mug. I've linked a bunch of cute ones below!

How to Make a Bourbon Mule

I added just a splash more bourbon in this recipe than is typically called for. Most bourbon mule recipes call for anywhere from 1 ½ to 3 ounces of bourbon, which is...not enough for me, quite frankly. I don't have an alcohol tolerance of steel or anything but I do appreciate a good bourbon and this bourbon mule cocktail just needed a touch more. 🙂 But don't be scurred! This is a drink anyone can enjoy--it's not too strong. 🙂 I'm all for bringing bourbon (and all kinds of whiskey) to the masses and, if you don't believe me, just check out this bubbly bourbon berry cocktail from last fall.

This is a three-ingredient recipe and takes under two minutes to make it. And it's so simple on top of everything else. Taste-wise, you get the flavors of whatever bourbon you choose (so choose a good one), a kick of spice and sweetness from the ginger beer, and a bit of citrus to balance everything out from the lime juice. I think you could also use lemon juice with a good result but will have to test that out and let you guys know. Putting a twist on classic recipes is one of my favorite pastimes, in case you didn't know. These little lavender mint juleps are proof positive of that.

I just booked a trip to Hawaii so this pineapple mule is also on my mind. The trip is a few months away but I would appreciate any recommendations y'all might have for when we go. 🙂 Back to this bourbon mule, though. If you need ideas for which kind of bourbon to use, I shared a few of my favorites here. I also like trying new bourbons and other kinds of whiskey so I'd love to hear your favorites, too. Just go ahead and drop your favorite bottle and Hawaii tip in the comments section!

This bourbon mule cocktail is appropriate for any occasion or time of year but, if it's chillier where you are, you might want to check out this bourbon caramel apple cider (it's warm) for the ultimate coziness. 🙂 Thanks for reading!

P.S. more bourbon things:

• vanilla bourbon birthday cake
• bourbon gingerbread
• bourbon carrot cake

📖 Recipe

Simple Bourbon Mule Cocktail

Jazzmine Woodard

An easy twist on the classic Moscow mule cocktail perfect for bourbon lovers.

5 from 4 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save RecipeSaved!

Prep Time 2 minutes mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1 cocktail

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• ▢ 4 ounces bourbon whiskey
• ▢ 1 ounce lime juice
• ▢ ginger beer chilled
• ▢ ice

Instructions

 

• Add bourbon and lime juice to a glass or copper mug.
• Fill glass halfway with ice then top up with ginger beer.

Did you try this recipe?Leave a comment to let me know how it turned out!