Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail

Bourbon, ginger and orange are a classic combination. This Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail recipe adds some warm spice notes for a fabulous fall into winter drink!

Now that Thanksgiving is behind us, all eyes are turning to the winter holidays and all the festivities… which includes festive drinks like my Pomegranate Lime Gin Fizz , Grey Goose Martini with a Twist or this Ruby Red Cosmopolitan Cocktail . But if Bourbon is your spirit of choice, then  this Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail deserves a spot on your cocktail list!

I’d been searching for a bourbon based drink for the holidays and wanted something that was versatile, easy to make and a little refreshing. The Kentucky Mule came to mind and I thought it had possibilities. Dressed up with a little extra citrus and adding a spice infused simple syrup gave the drink that holiday touch I was looking for!

Why you’ll love this Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail:

• Switching from vodka to bourbon gives the drink a bit more “heft” – which we all crave in cooler weather.
• An easy sipper, it appeals to true cocktail connoisseurs as well as casual imbibers (yes, I tested it with both!)
• It’s one that’s easy to serve for a small group – no shaking required! Better yet, leave out the fixings and let everyone make their own!

Notes for Making the Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail:

The infused syrup can be made up to two weeks in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

To extend it’s shelf life, add a teaspoon of vodka to the spiced syrup.

Use a good bourbon – Elijah Craig or Woodford Reserve would both work well in this cocktail !

5 from 1 vote

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Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

30 mins

Total Time

40 mins

 

An update to the classic Kentucky Mule, this Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule is a little sweet, a little tart and very refreshing - with enough heft for cocktail enthusiasts as well as casual sippers. 

Course: cocktail

Cuisine: Contemporary American

Servings: 1

Calories: 281 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 oz. bourbon Elijah Craig or Woodford Reserve
• 1/2 oz. Triple Sec Cointreau
• 1/2 oz. freshly lime juice
• 3/4 oz. spiced syrup
• 3 oz. ginger beer
• 1/2 fresh orange slice optional
• 1/2 lime slice optional
• 2 cinnamon sticks

Spiced Syrup

• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6 whole allspice berries
• 6 whole cloves

Instructions

1. For Kentucky Mule:

   Combine bourbon, triple sec, lime juice and spiced syrup in a mixing glass with ice. 

   Stir 45 seconds to combine.

   Pour over ice in a rocks glass. 

Spiced Syrup

1. Combine all the ingredients in a small saucepan.

   Bring to a boil over medium high heat.

   Take off the heat and let infuse for 30 minutes.

   Strain into a clean, lidded container. 

   Refrigerate for up to two weeks. 

Recipe Notes

Use a good quality bourbon - either Elijah Craig or Woodford Reserve work well. 

To extend the life of your spiced syrup, add 1 teaspoon vodka to the syrup.

Nutrition Facts

Citrus and Spice Kentucky Mule Cocktail

Amount Per Serving

Calories 281

% Daily Value*

Sodium 25mg 1%

Total Carbohydrates 44g 15%

Dietary Fiber 8g 32%

Sugars 28g

Vitamin C 17%

Calcium 15.1%

Iron 11.8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.