Summer’s favorite cocktail gets a winter makeover with this Vanilla Whiskey Mule ! This Moscow mule with whiskey combines the classic pairing of Jameson and ginger ale with lemon and just a touch of vanilla. This easy cocktail works just as well for a crowd as it does a quiet night by the fire!
The “mule” cocktail formula is incredibly easy to experiment with and the list of variations is almost unlimited. From the type of vodka used (hello Ruby Red Moscow Mule!) to the base spirit – bourbon, gin or in this case… whiskey!
Given my love affair with this cocktail, making a Moscow mule with whiskey I thought would be a winning idea. And I was right!
What you need to Make this Whiskey Mule:
- Whiskey – I used Jameson but feel free to use any other Irish of Scottish whiskey that you enjoy.
- Ginger ale – my favorite is Fever Tree – which works really well here. It’s definitely worth seeking out since the flavor is stronger than Canada Dry.
- Fresh lemon juice
- Vanilla Syrup –You can buy vanilla syrup but it’s very simple to make and I’ve included the instructions below! I like making my own because (a) it tastes better, and (b) I can make it in small quantitites.
Made with Jameson and ginger ale, it’s rich, smooth and with just enough bite. If you’ve never tried a whiskey cocktail, this Whiskey Mule is the one to try!!
Ginger ale provides a punch of ginger flavor which compliments the caramel, pear and apple flavors of the Jameson without competing. A little lemon juice gives it a citrusy note .. but it’s the vanilla syrup that pulls everything together and tames that whiskey burn!
Oh, and this vanilla syrup? It’s fabulous… and you won’t believe how easy it is to make!!!
Whiskey Mule FAQ’s”
Ginger ale is incredibly versatile! You could make this same cocktail with vodka, bourbon or even gin!
Ginger ale is a bit milder and not as sharp as ginger beer and compliments the whiskey “burn”. Ginger beer can definitely be used in this cocktail, but the flavors will be a bit sharper!
Tips for making this Cocktail!
- Although ginger beer is more popular, I prefer ginger ale for this whiskey mule. Ever wondered about the difference between ginger ale and ginger beer? Read all about it in my Ginger Rogers – a gin and ginger ale post!
- You will have extra vanilla syrup (unless you are making these whiskey mules for a crowd!) This syrup is delicious served over pancakes, or drizzled over baked apples or as a nonalcoholic drink when mixed with some sparkling water!
- These Whiskey mules are terrific for a party. You can combine the lemon juice, syrup and Jameson’s a few hours ahead of time and then set out the mixture with bottles of ginger ale. Each cocktail needs about 3 ¼ oz. of the mixture. Just pour it over ice, add the ginger ale and stir!
How to Make a Vanilla Whiskey Mule|Jamesons and Ginger Ale:
- Step #1: Muddle the lemon in the glass. I used a muddler but if you don’t have one, you can use a spoon!
Step #2: Pour in the whisky and vanilla syrup and stir. Add the ice and then pour in the ginger ale!
Step #3: Garnish with lemon and serve!
If you enjoyed this Jameson and ginger ale cocktail, I’d love for you to leave me a comment and rate it!
Other Moscow Mule variations you might enjoy:
Vanilla Whiskey Mule Recipe:
Vanilla Whiskey Mule
Ingredients
Vanilla Syrup
- ½ cup demarara sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla Whiskey Mule
- 2 oz. Jameson’s Irish Whiskey
- 1 quarter fresh lemon
- ¾ oz. vanilla syrup
- 1 3 oz. ginger ale I used Fever Tree
- 1 quarter lemon for garnish optional
Instructions
- Combine the demerara sugar and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium high heat. Cook for 2 – 3 minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Stir in the vanilla. If not using right away, pour into a jar and refrigerate for up to 4 weeks.
Instructions for the Vanilla Whiskey Mule
- Muddle the lemon quarter in the bottom of an old fashioned glass.
- Pour in the whiskey and the vanilla syrup and stir.
- Add ice and pour the ginger ale over. Stir and garnish with lemon if desired.
Using whiskey and ginger ale was not a combination I had thought of, but it sure works. I prefer the kick of whiskey and the ginger ale is a great complement. I look forward to offering to my mule friends as something new and different.
It definitely is a great combination. A good ginger ale isn’t too sweet so you can still taste the whiskey!
Love this!
Nothing makes me happier than sharing great cocktails!! Thank you so much for stopping by and letting me know!!
This literally combines all my faves in one: whiskey, lemons, vanilla & ginger ale. This isn’t just a summer cocktail, it’s an everyday cocktail. I used Wiser’s Vanilla Whiskey for an extra hit of vanilla & Fever Tree’s Smoky Ginger Ale. Amazing!