Cranberry Mule Mocktail (with Cranberry Juice)

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Make a mocktail version of a cranberry mule. This healthier mocktail is made with cranberry juice and is refined sugar free! Ready in five minutes.

A mule glass with a cranberry mocktail, garnished with frozen cranberries.

This mocktail version of a cranberry mule could not be easier!

Traditional moscow mules are made with vodka, ginger beer and lime juice. This cranberry mocktail version features cranberry juice, optional alcohol-free vodka, ginger kombucha for a lower sugar option, and, of course, lime juice.

These mules come together just like a traditional cocktail - ready in just five minutes!

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Why this recipe works
Why I love these Cranberry Mocktails
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
How to make Cranberry Mule Mocktails
FAQ & Expert Tips
Recipe Prayer
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A cranberry mocktail in a mule glass, garnished with frozen cranberries and a lime wedge.

Why this recipe works

The key to a mocktail that tastes like a cocktail is to replace the bite or acidity that alcohol adds to a cocktail.

In this mocktail I recommend an alcohol-free vodka or apple cider vinegar along with kombucha, which is naturally a bit sour, to mimic the taste of alcohol.

Pro Tip: grab some mule glasses for the perfect vibes! Especially with mocktails, the vibes make a difference!

A mule glass with a cranberry mocktail and a shot measurer.

Why I love these Cranberry Mocktails

No Alcohol - of course! It's a mocktail, so there's no alcohol at all. If you want to add alcohol I give the quantity and type of liquor below
Dietary needs - besides being alcohol-free this mocktail is plant-based, oil-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free
It's naturally sweetened! - the maple syrup is optional in this recipe. Depending on your preferences, you may find the drink sweet enough with just unsweetened cranberry juice and kombucha.
Quick and easy - it only takes 5 minutes to whip up
Great for kids and adults - the kids can have fun feeling like an adult and the adults can enjoy a cocktail without the effects of alcohol

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Cranberry Juice: look for unsweetened cranberry juice to avoid added sugar
Alcohol-Free Vodka: grab your favorite alcohol-free vodka or use some apple cider vinegar to mimic that bite of alcohol
Lime Juice: fresh lime juice is best, especially for cocktails
Ginger Beer or Ginger Kombucha: I used GT's ginger kombucha in this recipe. If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, use ginger beer instead or add maple syrup.
Maple Syrup: add maple syrup to adjust the sweetness. Feel free to also use date syrup. Or honey if you aren't vegan.
For Garnish: lime wedges & frozen cranberries

How to make Cranberry Mule Mocktails

Step 1. In a pitcher mix the cranberry juice, alcohol-free vodka, and lime juice.

Cranberry Mule Mocktail Step 1 - mix the cranberry juice, alcohol-free vodka, and lime juice.

Step 2. Add a generous scoop of ice to each mule glass.

Cranberry Mule Mocktail Step 2 - add ice to a mule glass.

Step 3. Divide the cranberry juice mixture between the glasses.

Cranberry Mule Mocktail Step 3 - pour in the cranberry mixture.

Step 4. Pour in the ginger beer/ginger kombucha.

Cranberry Mule Mocktail Step 4 - add the kombucha.

Step 5. Garnish with a handful of frozen cranberries and a lime wedge. Enjoy!

Cranberry Mule Mocktail Step 5 - garnish with lime wedges and frozen cranberries.

FAQ & Expert Tips

How can I add alcohol?

Replace the alcohol-free vodka with regular vodka!

What can I sub for kombucha?

I LOVE using kombucha in mocktails because it has a natural bite, which mimics the bite of alcohol. But if you don't like kombucha or don't have any you could use club soda, seltzer water, or ginger beer.

Feed a crowd

Mix up a large batch of the cranberry, alcohol-free vodka, and lime juice mixture. Guests can serve themselves and top off their glasses with kombucha as they go.

Four mule glasses filled with cranberry mocktails.

Recipe Prayer

Thank you God for this mocktail. Thank you for alcohol-free drinks that we can enjoy. Amen.

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