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Tangy, spicy, light and refreshing- this Basil Lemonade Moscow Mule and Virgin Mule recipe uses ginger beer, lemonade, basil, and vodka (or juniper soda) for a truly delicious cocktail or mocktail!
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At Sweet C’s, I add lots of tips in all of my recipes – because I am a home cook without any formal training, and I find I am more confident making dishes when I understand why it works, and what each ingredient means to the flavor of a recipe – my goal is for even the most beginner home cook to feel empowered in the kitchen.
I want each reader to walk away with a solid knowledge of each recipe, with all of the tips I’ve gathered from extensive testing of each recipe. I also answer questions my friends and family have asked about my recipes, to help everyone better understand the processes we use – and why!
Easy Basil Lemonade Moscow Mule
There’s nothing better than lemonade in summer, right?
Well- that’s wrong right off the bat… Moscow Mules are one of my summer favorites.
They are light, refreshing, delicious- and get you there without filling you up. The combination of vodka and ginger beer is divine- and the ginger beer always helps settle my stomach after a big meal, or keep me from feeling full like beers often can.
The virgin version of moscow mules are also one of my all-time favorite drinks!
So I decided to combine my two favorite drinks- lemonade and moscow mules- for an epic summer sipper.
(important note: I do get questions often about Ginger Beer. Ginger beer is NOT alcoholic- it is made like root beer or ginger ale- but has a LOT more ginger flavor than ginger ale. You can find ginger beer almost everywhere these days- but I am pretty picky about brands.)
While moscow mules do traditionally use citrus to cut the ginger beer’s flavor, I decided to switch it up a bit with lemonade.
Adding basil is a great way to take the flavor up even more- it is a fabulous compliment to slightly tangy and sweet lemonade, and gingers’ spicy heat.
And like a lot of my mocktails, this is truly one of the most delicious drinks even without booze. I’m using juniper soda for a bit of a dry, earthy kick- I might even like the virgin version more than the alcoholic one! (Well, we all know that isn’t true— but I do love a balanced, unique mocktail that doesn’t just rely on sugary sodas or juice. These are perfect for sipping all day long!)
This is an excellent party drink- you can pre-mix the basil, lemonade, and vodka/juniper soda (this actually helps the flavors develop and “marry” more) and display it in a cute jug or pitcher, and have guests top up their cocktail or mocktail with ginger beer when they are ready to drink it.
For an extra fun and delicious version, try adding cherry ginger beer!
I personally recommend the Cock ‘n Bull brand of ginger beer. It isn’t too sweet and has more spicy ginger flavor, which keeps the drink balanced and interesting. I also like to use a good premium lemonade for balanced flavor that doesn’t taste fake.
More Delicious Drinks
If you are a Moscow mule lover, try my Gin Buck or Simple Peach Bellinis for a hot summer’s day. Check out these other favorite drinks:
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Basil Lemonade Moscow Mule
Ingredients
- 4 oz lemonade
- 6 leaves basil, lightly muddled + 6 for garnish
- 2 oz vodka, OR 2 oz juniper soda
- 4 oz ginger beer, preferably Cock ‘n Bull brand
Instructions
- In a copper mug or pitcher (if making a large batch), lightly muddle basil by pressing it with a wooden spoon so some oils and flavors release.
- Add lemonade and vodka (or juniper soda), stir well.
- Add ice, stir.
- Add ginger beer immediately when serving- if making a large batch, you can pre-mix the lemonade and vodka/juniper soda, and then have guests pour ginger beer when they are ready to drink.
- Garnish with basil leaves.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I never thought to make a virgin one, but this looks so refreshing!! Thanks for sharing on Throwback Thursday!
Mollie
Love it. Thank you for linking up with us at #HomeMattersParty. We would love to have you again next week.
I have never had a mule, not a big drinker, this one is perfect for me.
Thanks
BTW, I love your pictures.
Thanks, Celeste! As long as the post isn’t sponsored or completely reliant on booze, I try to add mocktail versions that taste similar with any drink I make. I love a great cocktail but I have a lot of friends who don’t drink or don’t drink much, so if you’re ever looking for a fun beverage most of my recipes can be made without the alcohol (or even less of it!)
Love moscow mule. Thanks for sharing your version!