The Parisian Mule is a refreshing, floral twist on the classic Moscow Mule, bringing a bit of French charm to your glass. It’s light, slightly spicy from the ginger beer, and perfectly balanced with citrus and elderflower liqueur. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or hosting friends, this cocktail is an easy crowd-pleaser. I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I’ve learned is that the quality of ginger beer makes all the difference—so pick a good one!
Parisian Mule
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) vodka
- 1 oz (30ml) elderflower liqueur
- 0.5 oz (15ml) fresh lemon juice
- 4 oz (120ml) ginger beer
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
- Lemon slice, for garnish
Glass: A copper mug is ideal because it keeps your drink extra cold, but a highball glass works too.
How to Make a Parisian Mule
- Fill a copper mug (or highball glass) with ice cubes.
- Pour in vodka, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lemon juice.
- Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a lemon slice.
That’s it! Quick, simple, and incredibly refreshing.
Tips for the Best Parisian Mule
- Chill your mug beforehand for an extra refreshing drink.
- Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice won’t give you the same brightness.
- Choose a high-quality ginger beer. It’s the backbone of this drink, so go for one with a nice spice kick.
- Adjust sweetness by tweaking the elderflower liqueur—add more for a floral touch, or reduce it for a drier taste.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun twists on the classic Parisian Mule:
Lychee Parisian Mule
- Swap vodka for lychee liqueur and add a splash of lychee juice for a fruity take.
Spicy Parisian Mule
- Muddle a slice of jalapeño in the mug before adding the other ingredients for a little heat.
Elderflower-Free Version
- Skip the elderflower liqueur and add a touch more lemon juice for a more citrus-forward drink.
Virgin Parisian Mule (Non-Alcoholic)
- Replace vodka with extra ginger beer and add a splash of apple juice for a refreshing mocktail.
What to Serve with a Parisian Mule
Pair this cocktail with light, flavorful foods to complement its crisp and floral notes:
- Charcuterie Board – The mix of cured meats and cheeses balances the drink’s citrusy zing.
- Grilled Seafood – Shrimp or scallops go beautifully with the ginger and lemon.
- French Pastries – A buttery tarte au citron or delicate macarons make for a sweet pairing.
FAQs
Can I make a Parisian Mule ahead of time?
- You can mix the vodka and elderflower liqueur in advance, but wait to add the ginger beer until serving to keep the fizz fresh.
Do I have to use a copper mug?
- No, but it helps keep the drink colder for longer. A highball glass works just fine.
How can I make it less sweet?
- Reduce the elderflower liqueur and add a bit more lemon juice.
What’s the best way to make it spicier?
- Try adding a thin slice of jalapeño or a dash of cayenne for a kick.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights—it’s light, refreshing, and just fancy enough to impress. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to tweak the flavors to suit your taste. Cheers! 🍹
