Spiced Cider Vanilla Moscow Mule

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When I saw spiced cider in Trader Joe’s, I knew it would be perfect for a cocktail. The question was, what exactly was I going to do with it? I spent some time doing some research on flavor combinations and came up with this simple but tasty cocktail that’s perfect for fall get togethers and as a fun cocktail to serve at Thanksgiving. You could easily make a pitcher for guests to serve themselves by adjusting the amounts. Most of my cocktail recipes are pretty open to interpretation and can be adjusted to your desired amounts and tastes.

For this cocktail, I did decide to use vanilla extract instead of vanilla vodka because I find flavored vodkas can sometimes be too strong and taste a bit artificial. The vanilla in this drink should be subtle and not punch you in the face. If you would be prefer to use a vanilla flavored vodka over adding the extract, by all means go for it! Also, there is no added sugar in this recipe. There is no need as the cider and ginger beer are sweet enough on their own. I really love Q Brand Mixers. They have cleaner, natural ingredients, real sugar or agave and offer lower sugar options. You can also skip the vodka all together and enjoy this as a mocktail.

I typically use a 12 ounce glass with my cocktail recipes and it’s nice use either a themed or decorative glass especially when I’m hanging out with my girlfriends. I like treating them to special little details. I’ve found some really cute affordable glasses at Anthropologie. These are the glasses I used for this cocktail but they have so many other fabulous options!

Spiced Cider Vanilla Moscow Mule

Spiced Cider Vanilla Moscow Mule
Yield: 1
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Prep time: 10 MinTotal time: 10 Min
This sweet and spicy cocktail is perfect any festive fall gathering.

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce of high quality vodka
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup spiced cider
  • Ginger beer
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Green apple slice for garnish

Instructions

  1. Mix together sugar and cinnamon and pour onto a small plate
  2. Moisten the rim of a 12 ounce glass with water or the spiced cider and dip into the sugar cinnamon mixture
  3. Carefully add your desired amount of ice to the glass
  4. Add vodka, vanilla extract and spiced cider
  5. Top off with ginger beer and stir gently to combine all ingredients
  6. Garnish with apple slice