Easy Caribbean Mule Cocktail made from scratch and includes a homemade ginger simple syrup, ginger beer, lime, and spiced rum. This Moscow Mule with Rum is simple, yet classy enough to impress any cocktail critic.
This Spiced Caribbean Mule Cocktail recipe is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Don Q rum. All opinions are mine alone.
Homemade cocktails are becoming an increasing interest of mine. While I enjoy trying out new craft cocktails at restaurants and bars, the homemade kind can be just as unique. Plus you get to experiment while trying different spirits and flavor combinations. While you’re probably familiar with a Moscow Mule, the Caribbean Mule with rum is a variation that may just become a new favorite.
Ingredients in a Caribbean Mule
- Rum: Use a high quality spiced rum for best flavor
- Ginger beer: A high quality drink is best here as well, such as Bundaberg Ginger Beer
- Simple syrup: A homemade mixture of water, granulated sugar, and fresh ginger slices
- Freshly squeezed lime juice: Add a citrusy tang to offset the sweetness
- Ice: Smaller crushed ice is best for chilling and sensation while drinking
Moscow Mule, Caribbean Mule, Kentucky Mule…what the difference?
If you haven’t noticed, the regional name implies the alcohol. Moscow Mule uses vodka, Kentucky Mule uses bourbon, Mexican Mule uses tequila, and so on. Rum is used to make a Caribbean Mule. Spiced rum has a warm, comforting feel that’s perfect for fall season. Pair that with ginger beer for an accompanying spice and added sweetness, and you have a homemade cocktail perfect for winter nights or holiday entertaining.
How to make a Moscow Mule with rum
Stir together 2 ounces spiced rum, 2 tablespoons simple syrup, 1 juiced lime, and crushed ice in a copper mug. Top with 2 ounces of ginger beer and serve garnished with a lime wedge.
A Moscow Mule is made with vodka, simple syrup, lime juice, and ginger beer. Replacing the vodka with spiced rum will yield a unique and easy spiced rum Moscow Mule.
Which rum to use for Caribbean Mule
It’s important to use a quality spiced rum, even in mixed drinks. The flavors of the rum shine through and provide a balance to the simple syrup and ginger beer. I recommend Don Q Spiced Rum. It comes from one of America’s oldest family-owned businesses in Puerto Rico, with a rum-making tradition that started in 1865.
There’s a medium to heavy texture that’s evident on the glass, similar to quality wine. It’s oak barrel aged in a distillery that’s one of the most environmentally responsible and greenest in the spirits industry.
How to make homemade simple syrup
Simple syrup is simply a mixture of water and sugar that’s dissolved, then cooled. Typically a 1:1 ratio is best.
To make ginger simple syrup: In a small saucepan over medium heat, stir together water, sugar and a few slices fresh ginger. Cook 3-5 minutes, or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and cool (this will make extras for multiple drinks).
Should I buy store-bought simple syrup or make my own?
Making a homemade Spiced Caribbean Mule Cocktail is easy, even for the novice mixologist. You can use store-bought simple syrup, or make your own. I prefer to make my own as you can infuse flavors while cooking.
Adding a bit of fresh ginger creates even more punch. If you skip this step, keep in mind that not all ginger beers are created equal. A homemade ginger syrup allows you to control the flavor and sweetness of your Moscow Mule with Rum. Plus you can make extras and keep on hand for multiple drinks.
With only a handful of ingredients, look for a quality ginger beer as well. To make this Caribbean Mule, simply muddle fresh ginger and shake in a cocktail shaker with the spiced rum, lime juice, and simple syrup. Strain and top with ginger beer for a classy at-home cocktail that’s full of spice.
More classy cocktails you make like
- How to Make a Rum Old Fashioned
- How to Make Homemade Tonic Water
- Sparkling Rosemary Grapefruit Gin Martini
Leave a comment below and star rating if you made this recipe or want to share your thoughts.
Are you following me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter? Also, sign up for our newsletter to get all our recipes and cooking tips.
Spiced Caribbean Mule (Moscow Mule with Rum)
Ingredients
- ½ cup filtered water
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
- 2 medium limes, juiced
- 4 ounces Don Q Spiced Rum
- Crushed ice
- 4 ounces ginger beer
Instructions
- Note: Skip this step if you are using store-bought simple syrup. In a small saucepan over medium heat, stir together water, sugar and half of ginger. Cook 3-5 minutes, or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and cool (this will make extras for multiple drinks).
- Muddle remaining ginger in a cocktail shaker and add 2-4 tablespoons simple syrup, lime juice, and rum.
- Shake well, then strain into two copper mugs filled with crushed ice.
- Top each with ginger beer and garnish with lime wedge.
Notes
- Use store-bought simple syrup if desired for a faster drink. However, it won't have as much ginger flavor.
- This recipe will provide extra simple syrup for multiple drinks.
- Crushed ice creates the best consistency for a mule cocktail, but regular ice cubes will work
I found this recipe after having one at a restaurant. I’m sipping this delicious drink as I type this and its absolutely delicious!
Thanks for the comment Courtney! I’ve never seen this on the menu at a restaurant but glad you were able to make it at home as well!
Oh, this sounds absolutely delightful! I absolutely LOVE ginger beer, so anything with ginger beer in it, has to be delicious! I’m going to try this recipe!
I’m a huge fan of ginger beer as well. Thanks Cleo and hope you do!
Matt, the addition of fresh ginger sounds like a nice touch, especially when paired with the ginger beer and lime! Thanks for the recipe.
Thanks Shonda and your welcome. The added ginger does give it a little extra kick.