Harvest Mule Cocktail Recipe
Harvest Mule Nutrition Facts
Calories:150
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol content:15%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Harvest Mule is a seasonal twist on the classic Moscow Mule. It's a concoction that embodies the essence of autumn with its warm spices and citrus notes. This cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate the flavors of fall and enjoy a spicy kick from the ginger beer. It's often favored by those who seek a cozy beverage to sip on during crisp evenings.
- Origins The Moscow Mule, the base for this variation, was created in the 1940s in the United States. The Harvest Mule, however, is a more recent innovation that capitalizes on the trend of incorporating seasonal ingredients into classic cocktails.
- Popularity It has gained popularity in bars that specialize in craft cocktails and among home bartenders who enjoy experimenting with flavors.
- Audience The Harvest Mule is particularly beloved by those who enjoy festive drinks and are looking to celebrate the harvest season in a glass.
How Harvest Mule Tastes?
The Harvest Mule offers a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The clementine vodka provides a fruity and slightly tangy base, while the pumpkin spice adds a warm and aromatic dimension. The ginger beer introduces a sharp, effervescent kick that balances the sweetness, and the cinnamon stick garnish infuses a subtle woody spice throughout the drink.
Interesting facts about Harvest Mule
- The Moscow Mule, from which the Harvest Mule is derived, was traditionally served in a copper mug to enhance the cold temperature of the drink.
- Pumpkin spice, a key ingredient in the Harvest Mule, is a blend typically consisting of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice.
- Clementines are a winter fruit, making the Harvest Mule an ideal drink for transitioning from fall to winter.
Ingredients
- Clementine vodka: 2 oz(60ml)
- Pumpkin spice: 1 tsp
- Ginger beer: 1 oz(30ml)
- Cinnamon stick: 1
- Orange slices: 2
A few good options for Harvest Mule are:
- Grey Goose
- Belvedere
- Khor
- Smirnoff
A few good options for Harvest Mule are:
- Brockmans
- Silent Pool Gin
- Hendrick's Gin
Clementine Vodka
The clementine vodka provides a sweet, citrusy base that pairs perfectly with the warm spices. It's important not to go overboard with the vodka - 2 oz is just right to maintain a balanced flavor profile. Too much, and you'll find your cocktail more suited for cleaning than sipping!
Mary Mitkina
Pumpkin Spice
Pumpkin spice gives us that cozy sweater feeling. A teaspoon strikes the perfect balance between noticeable and overpowering. Forget it, and you'll lose the 'harvest' in your Harvest Mule.
Alex Green
Ginger Beer
Ginger beer adds a fizzy kick and a touch of spice. With just an ounce, we create a subtlety that teases rather than overpowers. Exclude it, and say goodbye to that gingery zing that plays so well with the pumpkin spice.
Emma Rose
Cinnamon Stick
The cinnamon stick is our magic wand. It stirs and imbues the cocktail with a mild, woody warmth. No cinnamon stick? Your mule might kick less without its spiced backbone.
Mary Mitkina
Orange Slices
Orange slices serve as garnish and subtle flavor enhancers, offering a fresh citrus aroma and taste. Lose the orange, and you'll miss the sweet high notes that contrast the warm spices.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Harvest Mule Drink
- Fill a tall glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Pour 2 oz of Clementine Vodka over the ice.
- Add 1 tsp of Pumpkin Spice.
- Top with 1 oz of Ginger Beer.
- Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
- Garnish with two orange slices and a cinnamon stick.
Pro Tips
- For an extra festive touch, rim the glass with a mix of sugar and pumpkin spice before adding the ingredients.
- Use a high-quality ginger beer with a strong ginger flavor to balance the sweetness of the clementine vodka.
- Chill the vodka before use to keep the drink colder and more refreshing.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Cheese Plate: A selection of medium to sharp cheeses complements the citrus and spice notes.
- Roasted Nuts: Especially almonds or pecans, candied or spiced play well with the warm flavors.
Main Courses
- Roasted Turkey: The hints of pumpkin spice resonate with traditional holiday dishes.
- Butternut Squash Risotto: The creamy texture and savory sweetness pair nicely with the spicy and citrus notes.
Desserts
- Pumpkin Pie: This classic dessert naturally harmonizes with the pumpkin spice in the drink.
- Cinnamon Apple Crisp: Echoes the cinnamon and complements the ginger beer’s zesty profile.
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What you could change in Harvest Mule
- Vodka: If Clementine Vodka is unavailable, substitute with plain vodka and a splash of clementine juice.
- Ginger Beer: For a less spicy alternative, ginger ale can be used, though it will be sweeter.
- Pumpkin Spice: If you don't have pumpkin spice, mix equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger powder.
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And of course - twists🍹
Spicy Harvest Mule
- Ingredients: Same as original, but add a small pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Recipe: Follow the original recipe, sprinkling in the cayenne with the pumpkin spice. This little devil will turn up the heat and add a fiery twist.
Apple Cider Harvest Mule
- Ingredients: Replace Ginger Beer with the same amount of Apple Cider.
- Recipe: Using apple cider instead of ginger beer will give a sweeter, fruitier autumnal feel. Stir as usual and enjoy the orchard in your glass!
Creamy Harvest Mule
- Ingredients: Add 1 oz of half-and-half or light cream.
- Recipe: Mix in the cream with the other ingredients. This twist will soften the spice edges and give your mule a velvety cloak suitable for the chillest evenings.
In case you forgot basics how to make Harvest Mule
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
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Frequently Asked Questions on Harvest Mule
How can I measure an ounce if I don't have a jigger or measuring cup?
You can use a tablespoon as a substitute, where 1 fluid ounce is approximately 2 tablespoons.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Harvest Mule?
Yes, you can substitute the clementine vodka with clementine juice or a non-alcoholic spirit with citrus flavoring, and opt for non-alcoholic ginger beer.
Is there a specific type of glass that should be used for serving a Harvest Mule?
The Harvest Mule is traditionally served in a copper mug to maintain its temperature, but you can also use a highball or collins glass.
What's the best way to store ginger beer after opening?
Store ginger beer in the refrigerator with a tight seal to preserve its carbonation and flavor. It's best consumed within a few days of opening.
How long does cinnamon stick garnish remain flavorful?
Cinnamon sticks used as garnish can retain their flavor for a few uses but should be replaced if the drink doesn't acquire the cinnamon scent after a few stirs.
What can I use if I don't have fresh orange slices for garnishing?
Dried orange slices or a twist of orange peel can be used as a substitute garnish, providing similar aromatic qualities.
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