Published: Aug 9, 2022 · Modified: Nov 2, 2023 by Angela · This post may contain affiliate links · 35 Comments

Spicy Jalapeno Basil Moscow Mule

For something bubbly with a kick, a spicy jalapeno basil Moscow mule will hit the spot. This mixed vodka drink is spicy, aromatic, fizzy, crisp, and cool all at once.

This jalapeno vodka drink recipe makes a fancy & delicious summer cocktail like my Pina Colada on the Rocks. Trust me, it is a perfect cocktail once you try it, and if you have had an angry mule you will love this one.

When the weather heats up, this twist on a Moscow mule with a mix of jalapeno, fresh basil, lime juice, ginger beer, and spicy pepper vodka over ice will be your new favorite.

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Ingredients for a Spicy Moscow Mule
How to Make a Spicy Moscow Mule
Variations & Substitutions
FAQ
Spicy Jalapeno Basil Moscow Mule

Ingredients for a Spicy Moscow Mule

You need to start with fresh ingredients when it comes to limes, jalapenos, and basil. Please do not use bottled lime juice; freshly squeezed is best. Also use fresh basil and jalapenos, not jarred pickled jalapenos.

The Absolut Peppar vodka is the best-flavored vodka for a spicy Moscow mule. Double the heat but also carbonated and refreshing! When it all comes together, it pleases all the senses.

spicy jalapeno moscow mule ingredients on a table

Here is what you need for this spicy Moscow mule recipe:

Absolut Peppar Vodka - the spicy vodka is perfect for this mule.
Bundaberg's diet or regular Ginger Beer - is my favorite brand for making cocktails & the diet version is the best tasting.
Jalapeno -fresh jalapenos (not pickled in the jar)
Limes -fresh lime juice is best
Fresh Basil Leaves - for the aromatic sweet touch that offsets the spicy pepper flavor perfectly
Ice -since Moscow mules are served on the rocks, you need a lot of ice

See the recipe card for amounts & full instructions

How to Make a Spicy Moscow Mule

It is so easy to mix up a couple of mugs of spicy Moscow mules. If you have ever made a mojito, there is a bit of muddling in this recipe too. That extra step is what makes this the best spicy Moscow mule.

Before you get mixing, prep any ingredients that need it. Wash & dry the fresh basil leaves. Cut one lime in half so the juice is ready to be squeezed. For garnish slice a second lime & save a few basil leaves.

Here are the steps for pouring vodka mules with fresh basil & jalapenos:

Muddle the Fresh Ingredients
Fill the Mugs with Ice
Add Vodka & Ginger Beer
Garnish

1 - Muddle the Fresh Ingredients

In the bottom of copper mugs or tall highball glass, place 2 slices of jalapenos, 2 large basil leaves, and the lime juice. Muddle (crush) with a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon handle.

The important thing is you want to break up the jalapenos and basil in the liquid to bring out the flavors and essence in the lime juice. I keep the seeds and membranes on my jalapenos - I like it HOT!

TIP: remember don't touch the peppers and then your face or eyes - ouch! - wash your hands!

muddling the basil and fresh jalapeno slices in the copper mug

2 - Fill the Mugs with Ice

This vodka drink is served on the rocks. Next, fill the mug or glass with ice. If you need to make ice quickly, here are some tips on how long it takes to freeze water.

3 - Add Vodka & Ginger Beer

Add 2 ounces of vodka and ½ a bottle of ginger beer to each mug. This will fill the glass to the top, and stir.

4 - Garnish

Garnish with jalapeno slices and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy immediately while cold.

Spicy jalapeno moscow mule in copper mugs next to fresh limes absolut peppar vodka and bottles of ginger beer.

Variations & Substitutions

Whether a cocktail party, family gathering, or barbecue, these spicy jalapeno Moscow mules are a hit. They can be altered a bit to give you a variety of flavors as well. For a sweet version without the kick, try my Pomegranate Moscow Mule.

Here are some quick substitutions to make more yummy Moscow mule recipes. With different fruit juices and herbs, this recipe has so much to love.

FRUITY- add a splash of mango or peach nectar, pineapple juice, or cranberry juice for a sweet fruit version.
MINT - add fresh mint instead of basil.
MEXICAN MULE - add cilantro instead of basil & tequila instead of vodka.
EXTRA SPICY - substitute regular ginger beer with AJ Stephan's Jamaican-Style Ginger Beer for next-level heat.

Spicy Jalapeno Basil Moscow Mule in a copper mug served over ice.

FAQ

Why is a Moscow mule served in a copper mug?

The quick answer is that copper is known to retain a cold temperature through conduction and the iced beverage’s chill transfers to the tankard or copper mug. They help keep your Moscow mule colder and less likely to become diluted or warm quickly. I like that they look fun & fancy.

How many carbs & calories are in a Moscow mule?

This recipe can be made sugar-free and low-carb for the best spicy Moscow mule cocktail. I like to use Bundaberg diet ginger beer so that this becomes a keto-friendly drink.

There are only 4.6 carbs & 148 calories in this low-carb mule recipe. The classic version with regular ginger beer is 25 carbs & 240 calories. Either way, this is delish.

What are the best ginger beers for a Moscow Mule?

I found that Bundaberg's is my favorite and it is widely available even in grocery stores so it makes it easy to obtain without a need for a special liquor store run.

You can use other brands such as Fever-Tree, Q, Cock n Bull, or Goslings if you have that for making cocktails. All are good for making any mule cocktail.

Spicy Moscow Mule in copper mugs garnished with slices of jalapenos. and sprigs of basil.

Product Recommendations for this Recipe:

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