Raise a copper mug to fall with my pumpkin spice Moscow mule – where pumpkin spice meets ginger beer for a seasonal twist. Ideal for crisp evenings and festive gatherings.
Easy Pumpkin Spice Moscow Mule with Vodka
Pumpkin spice enthusiasts, this one’s for you. My pumpkin spice Moscow mule blends vodka, pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, fresh lemon juice, and ginger beer for a refreshing fall twist on the classic cocktail. Served over ice in a copper mug and garnished with a cinnamon stick, it’s the perfect drink to enjoy sip this time of year.
This lightly sweet, spiced mule is ideal for any at-home gathering or fall tailgating event. Easy to make and full of flavor, you’ll be surprised how good it really is!
Why I Love This Recipe
- It’s super easy to make, so I can mix them up in no time.
- The pumpkin spice and ginger beer combo is a total fall flavor win.
- It’s a fun twist on a classic cocktail that surprises everyone in the best way.
Ingredients
Here’s a list of ingredients for your pumpkin spice Moscow mule, along with some substitution ideas.
- Vodka: Plain vodka works best. For a sweeter twist, consider vanilla or pumpkin spice-flavored vodka, but reduce the pumpkin pie spice extract to avoid overpowering flavors.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal. If using bottled, opt for high-quality brands.
- Pumpkin Purée: Use canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie mix, to control sweetness. Homemade purée from sugar pumpkins is also a good option.
- Ginger Juice: Adds a spicy kick. Store-bought or freshly pressed works (you would need a juicer). If using a spicy ginger beer (like Fever-Tree), you could skip this.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice Extract: Liquid extract blends smoothly without grittiness. If unavailable, substitute with ¼ teaspoon ground pumpkin pie spice.
- Ginger Beer: Choose ginger beer over ginger ale for authentic flavor. Higher-end brands often provide better taste.
How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Moscow Mule at Home
Find the complete recipe with measurements in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Step One (mix the base)
In a liquid measuring cup, I combine vodka, lemon juice, a rounded tablespoon of pumpkin purée, ginger juice, and a splash of liquid pumpkin pie spice extract. I give it a good stir until it’s silky and blended. It’s basically the fall version of cocktail prep therapy. - Step Two (add the fizz)
I pour in the ginger beer and stir just enough to mix—never too much, or you’ll lose that fizzy magic. - Step Three (build the mug)
A copper mug gets packed with crushed ice, then I pour the pumpkin spice mule right over the top. The copper chills fast, which makes the drink feel extra crisp. - Step Four (finish it off)
A cinnamon stick and a piece of star anise make it feel like the holidays are sneaking into your glass. If you’re into those same warm spices, my mulled cider uses them in a slow-simmered, shareable way that makes your kitchen smell incredible.
Recipe Tips
To make the perfect pumpkin spice Moscow mule, consider a few of my extra tips:
- Mix Before Adding Ginger Beer: Combine all ingredients thoroughly before introducing the ginger beer to maintain its carbonation. If the pumpkin settles, a quick stir will refresh the drink.
- Cinnamon Stick Stirrer: Use a cinnamon stick as a stirrer for added flavor. If it’s too short, attach a toothpick to extend its length, making sure only the cinnamon stick is visible above the glass.
- Ice Selection: While crushed ice chills the drink quickly, regular ice cubes work just as well.
- Low-Carb Option: For a reduced-carb version, choose a sugar-free ginger beer with a flavor you prefer, as it significantly influences the cocktail’s taste.
- Adjusting Spice Level: Increase the amount of ginger juice for a spicier kick, tailoring the heat to your preference.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter cocktail without flavored vodka, mix in a teaspoon or two of maple syrup or coconut sugar before adding the ginger beer, stirring until it dissolves.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?
Yes, you can create a non-alcoholic pumpkin spice Moscow mule by omitting the vodka and using a non-alcoholic ginger beer or ginger ale. This way, you still enjoy the seasonal flavors without the alcohol. - Is it possible to prepare this cocktail in advance for a party?
I would mix the vodka, pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and lime juice ahead of time and store the mixture in the refrigerator. However, add the ginger beer just before serving to maintain its carbonation and freshness. - Where can I find ginger juice?
Ginger juice is available in the Asian aisles of most health food stores and some conventional grocery stores. It can also be purchased online. ‘The Ginger People’ is a commonly found brand. You can also leave this out if you’re using a spicier ginger beer. - What can I use instead of a copper mug?
While copper mugs are traditional for serving Moscow mules, they’re not necessary. Any cocktail glass with a volume of about 10-12 ounces (to allow room for ice) works fine. For an attractive and tasty addition, run a lemon wedge along the rim of the glass and dip it in a pumpkin spice sugar mixture (2 tablespoons of granulated sugar mixed with ¼ teaspoon of ground pumpkin pie spice).
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Pumpkin Spice Moscow Mule
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz (1/4 cup) vodka
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1/4 of one lemon juiced)
- 1 heaping tbsp. pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp ginger juice (or more to taste)* (found in the Asian section of the market)
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice extract (or 1/4 tsp ground pumpkin pie spice)
- 5 oz ginger beer (about 2/3 cup)
- 1 cup crushed ice
- cinnamon stick, star anise, optional garnish
Instructions
- In a liquid measuring cup, combine vodka, lemon juice, pumpkin purée, ginger juice, and liquid pumpkin pie spice extract. Stir until fully blended.2 oz (1/4 cup) vodka , 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1/4 of one lemon juiced), 1 heaping tbsp. pumpkin puree, 1 tsp ginger juice (or more to taste)*, 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice extract
- Add the ginger beer and gently stir, being careful not to overmix to keep the drink fizzy.5 oz ginger beer (about 2/3 cup)
- Fill a copper mug with crushed ice, then pour the pumpkin spice Moscow mule over it.1 cup crushed ice
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a piece of star anise.cinnamon stick, star anise, optional garnish
Notes
Nutrition
More Seasonal Cocktail Recipes
Pumpkin Pie Martini – This Pumpkin Pie Martini captures all the fall flavors, blending warm spices, subtle sweetness, and a hint of zest. It’s so perfect, you’ll find yourself reaching for a second round.
Bourbon Wassail Cocktail – This Wassail Bourbon Cocktail is a warm, spiced delight—perfect for sipping as the weather cools. The bourbon adds a smooth kick to classic holiday flavors, making it an ideal choice for festive gatherings.
New Year’s Eve Countdown Cocktail – Ring in the New Year with 12 grapes at midnight—each bite a wish for a prosperous month ahead.
Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let me know how it turned out.
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Kim says
This was perfect for girls night. It was really easy to make and everyone absolutely loved it. The star anise and cinnamon stick just took it to the next level. Not only tasty but super pretty!
Dayna S says
All I can say is thank you!! My favorite cocktail- now for the fall!!
Toni says
This was the perfect fall drink!! I will be enjoying it all fall! Thanks for sharing the recipe!
Val` says
Wow this was incredible and will be on repeat with the cooler weather, loved the pumpkin spice twist. Such a great twist on a mule.
jess says
this was fall in a cup! I loved the flavors in this drink and I am so thankful to you for sharing this recipe
Tara G says
My new favorite cocktail! My friends went crazy for these over the weekend!