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This Grapefruit Moscow Mule is a simple, refreshing winter cocktail you can make in under five minutes. It requires only four ingredients and comes together without any special bar tools.

Moscow Mules are classic vodka cocktails traditionally served in copper mugs. Many variations add fruit or herbal notes to the original recipe to create bright, seasonal twists.
This Grapefruit Mule highlights fresh grapefruit flavor. If you want other fruity takes, try variations like a Raspberry Moscow Mule or a cranberry-based Christmas Mule. For more grapefruit-forward cocktails, consider a Basil Grapefruit Martini or a Grapefruit Crush. If you prefer gin, a Grapefruit Rickey is a great alternative.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tart & Sweet — The tartness of grapefruit juice balances perfectly with the sweetness and spice of ginger beer.
- Quick & Easy — No shaker required. This mule is mixed directly in the mug and is ready in minutes.
- Seasonal Favorite — While enjoyable year-round, the bright citrus and warming ginger make this a popular winter cocktail.
Ingredients

- Grapefruit Juice: Use white, pink, or ruby red grapefruit juice, boxed or freshly squeezed for a brighter flavor.
- Vodka: A mid-shelf plain vodka works well. Citrus-flavored vodkas (grapefruit or lemon) can enhance the drink.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness and lifts the grapefruit.
- Ginger Beer: Use ginger beer (not ginger ale) for its bold, spicy ginger flavor. Choose a brand with the level of spiciness you prefer.
How To Make A Grapefruit Moscow Mule
Step 1: Pour the grapefruit juice, vodka, and fresh lime juice into a copper mug or a glass. Stir to combine.

Step 2: Add a handful of ice, top with ginger beer, gently stir, and serve immediately.

Expert Tips
- Serve in copper mugs: Copper mugs keep the drink exceptionally cold and add to the classic presentation.
- Add herbs: Muddle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the mug, or add a dash of herb-infused simple syrup to deepen the flavor.
- Prefer fresh juice: When grapefruit is in season, freshly squeezed juice noticeably improves the cocktail’s brightness.
Recipe FAQs
Copper is an excellent conductor, so the mug helps the cocktail stay colder longer while enhancing the traditional look.
Yes. If you don’t have vodka, white rum is a good substitute and keeps the cocktail light and refreshing.

📖 Recipe
Grapefruit Moscow Mule
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- Author: Ali
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Grapefruit Moscow Mule is a quick, four-ingredient cocktail perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 oz grapefruit juice
- 1 ½ oz vodka
- 1 oz lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 3 oz ginger beer
Instructions
- Add the grapefruit juice, vodka, and lime juice to a copper mug or glass. Stir to combine.
- Add a handful of ice, top with ginger beer, gently stir, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Flavor variations: Muddle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the mug, or add a small amount of herb-infused simple syrup to enhance the drink.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Cocktail Recipes
- Method: Mixed
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 188
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 8mg
- Fat: 0.1g
- Carbohydrates: 23.1g
- Protein: 0.6g