Lemon Moscow Mule

5 from 1 vote
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 0 minutes
Total: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
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If you love a good Moscow mule, you’re in the right place! This Lemon Moscow Mule is zesty, refreshing, and just a little smoky thanks to a splash of mezcal. Mezcal adds a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the fresh citrus and spicy ginger—it’s bold, bright, and so unique.

If you’re a mule lover like me, don’t miss my other favorites: Classic Mule, Lemon Sage Moscow Mule, or this cozy Apple Cider Mule for fall!

Lemon Moscow mule in a copper mug garnished with a lemon wheel.

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I’m a big fan of Moscow Mules and have created so many versions, like my Lemon and Sage Mule, Gingerbread Mule, Apple Cider Moscow Mule, and Blueberry Moscow Mule!

This lemon mule is made with fresh juice from my backyard lemon tree and a splash of mezcal for a little smoky twist. It’s citrusy, refreshing, and so easy to make. Garnish with a lemon candy stick for a fun, nostalgic touch!

Close-up of a lemon mule with fresh lemon zest and crushed ice in a copper mug.

Lemon Mule Ingredient Notes

Lemon Juice – Fresh squeezed always!

Vodka – Good quality is best a quality drink.

Ginger Syrup – You can buy this or make it using my ginger syrup recipe. You can also use a little simple syrup to sweeten this drink.

Mezcal – This is optional but gives a smoky flavor to the lemon mule.

Ginger Beer – I like Fever Tree or Q Mixer, but many brands exist. Choose a sugar-free ginger beer for less sugar.

How to Make a Lemon Moscow Mule

1. Fill a copper mug (or glass) with ice.

2. Add vodka, fresh lemon juice, ginger syrup, and mezcal (if using).

3. Top with cold ginger beer.

4. Stir gently to combine.

5. Garnish with a lemon twist or lemon stick candy—and enjoy!

Lemon Moscow mule topped with a nostalgic lemon candy stick and lemon wheel.

Recipe Tips

Always use fresh lemon juice—it makes a big difference.

Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less ginger syrup.

Hosting? Mix a pitcher without the ginger beer, then top each glass with ginger beer when serving.

Pro mug tip: Use stainless steel–lined copper mugs if you’re sipping often—safe for citrus and super cold.

Play with garnishes—lemon wheel, lemon zest, fresh mint, candied ginger, or even a rim of sugar for extra flair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s in a Lemon Mule?

If you love a smoky flavor, these lemon mules are for you! They’re made with lemon juice, vodka, ginger syrup, ginger beer, and mezcal. They’re refreshing and smoky.

What is Mezcal?

Mezcal is a Mexican distilled alcohol made from Agave. It has a very smoky flavor and is one of the most popular spirits in Mexico.

Can I make this without mezcal?

Yes! Just leave it out for a classic lemon mule with bright citrus and spicy ginger flavors.

Can I muddle lemon zest?

Yes! It releases natural oils and ups the aroma!

If you make this Lemon Moscow Mule, leave a comment and review below—I’d love to hear how it turned out! Don’t forget to tag @sugarandcharm if you share it on Instagram. Cheers!

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lemon Moscow mule
5 from 1 vote

Lemon Moscow Mule

By: Eden
A twist on a classic Moscow Mule, these Smoky Lemon Mules are made with fresh lemon juice and Mezcal!
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 0 minutes
0 minutes
Total: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
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Ingredients 

  • 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 ounce vodka
  • 3/4 ounce ginger syrup
  • 1/2 ounce mezcal , optional
  • 2 ounces ginger beer

Instructions 

  • Add all of the ingredients in a copper mug and stir.
  • Add in ice and garnish with a lemon wedge and candy stick

Notes

If you don’t want the cocktail to be smoky, leave out the mezcal. 
Use a store-bought ginger syrup to make it easier.
Always use fresh lemon juice. 
You can use store-bought or homemade ginger syrup in this recipe. A few of my favorite brands are Liber & Co. Fiery Ginger Syrup, Ginger People, and Pink House Alchemy. It’s always handy to keep one on hand for Moscow Mule nights!

Nutrition

Calories: 214kcal, Carbohydrates: 22g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 1g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 17mg, Sugar: 21g, Vitamin C: 11mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Like this? Leave a comment below!

About Eden

I’m Eden Passante and I develop, create, style and photograph every recipe and party on Sugar and Charm. I’m the author of Entertaining with Charm and have a Bachelor’s Degree in Home Economics and I’m here to help you create simple and easy recipes for entertaining and how to add charm to any gathering!

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