Name: Cranberry Mule Holiday Cocktail
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 ounce fresh orange juice; 1 ounce 100% unsweetened cranberry juice (or cranberry cocktail for sweeter version); 1/4 cup homemade cranberry sauce, chilled; 4 ounces sparkling ginger drink (or to taste); 6 sprigs fresh mint, plus more for garnish; Optional garnishes: orange slices, lime slices, fresh cranberries

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A festive twist on a classic holiday drink, this cranberry mule is made with fresh citrus, homemade cranberry sauce, and a sparkling finish. It’s tart, refreshing, and just the thing to serve at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any seasonal gathering.

Cranberry Mule Holiday Cocktail

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this cranberry mule because it feels bright and refreshing while still carrying all the cozy flavors of the holidays. The cranberry sauce adds a festive touch that makes the drink stand out, while fresh lime and orange juice keep it balanced and zesty. I also like that it looks beautiful with its colorful garnishes, making every glass feel like part of the celebration.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 ounce fresh orange juice
1 ounce 100% unsweetened cranberry juice
¼ cup homemade cranberry sauce, chilled
Sparkling ginger drink (about 4 ounces, or to taste)
6 sprigs fresh mint, plus extra for garnish
Orange slices, lime slices, and fresh cranberries, for garnish

Directions

Add cranberry sauce, cranberry juice, mint leaves, orange juice, and lime juice into a shaker or mixing glass.
Muddle the mixture well to release the flavors.
Pour into 2–3 glasses filled with ice.
Top each glass with sparkling ginger drink and stir gently.
Garnish with mint, orange slices, lime wedges, and cranberries. Serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 to 3 drinks, depending on how much sparkling ginger drink I add. It only takes about 5 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it a quick and festive option for any holiday occasion.

Variations

I sometimes switch out the sparkling ginger drink for sparkling water if I want a lighter version. For a sweeter taste, I can use cranberry cocktail instead of unsweetened cranberry juice. I’ve also made this in a large pitcher by multiplying the ingredients and letting everyone ladle their own serving—it works beautifully as a punch.

Storage/Reheating

Since this is a sparkling drink, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If I need to prepare ahead, I mix the juices and cranberry sauce together and chill until serving time. I always wait to add the sparkling drink so it stays fizzy. Any leftovers should be stored without the sparkling drink and used within 1–2 days.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the juice and cranberry mixture ahead, then just add the sparkling ginger drink when ready to serve.

Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce?

Definitely. I like using homemade, but store-bought sauce works just as well.

Can I make this less tart?

If I want a sweeter version, I use cranberry cocktail juice instead of unsweetened cranberry juice.

What kind of glass is best for serving?

I like to use tumblers or stemless wine glasses, but any festive glass will work.

Can I make this into a punch for a party?

Yes, I multiply the ingredients, mix everything except the sparkling ginger drink in a pitcher, and let guests top off their own glasses.

Conclusion

This cranberry mule holiday cocktail is one of my favorite seasonal drinks. I love how easy it is to make, how festive it looks, and how perfectly it fits into any holiday menu. Whether I’m making a few glasses or turning it into a party punch, it always feels like a celebration in a glass.