Peach Moscow Mule

This Peach Moscow Mule cocktail transforms the classic copper mug sipper into a summer sensation with fresh peach puree and aromatic cinnamon. I discovered this recipe during a particularly hot July weekend when standard cocktails felt too heavy, and it's become my signature summer drink ever since. The peachy sweetness balanced with spicy ginger beer creates the perfect refreshing cocktail that tastes like summer in a cup.

I first created this drink for an impromptu backyard gathering, and now my friends specifically request my "peach pie cocktails" whenever peach season arrives. The combination of sweet fruit and warm cinnamon makes it feel indulgent without being overly sweet.

Ingredients

• Fresh peaches: preferably ripe and fragrant for the best flavor
• Ginger beer: provides the signature Moscow Mule spicy kick
• Vodka: choose a quality brand that won't overpower the delicate peach
• Fresh lime juice: brightens the entire drink and balances the sweetness
• Cinnamon simple syrup: adds warmth and complexity beyond regular simple syrup
• Ice: preferably large cubes that melt slowly to prevent dilution

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil. The sugar needs to completely dissolve for a smooth syrup. Once boiling, immediately remove from heat to prevent thickening or caramelization.

Infuse the Syrup:

Add a cinnamon stick to the hot syrup and cover the pot. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes, though 3 hours develops a more pronounced cinnamon flavor. The longer it infuses, the more aromatic the syrup becomes. You can taste test along the way to achieve your desired intensity.

Prepare the Peach Puree:

Blend fresh, ripe peach chunks until completely smooth. For the best flavor, use peaches at their peak ripeness when they're fragrant and yield slightly to pressure. If fresh peaches aren't available, thawed frozen peaches or peach nectar make good substitutes.

Mix the Cocktail:

In a copper mug, combine peach puree, vodka, fresh lime juice, and cinnamon simple syrup. The copper mug isn't just for tradition it actually helps keep the drink exceptionally cold and enhances the ginger beer's spiciness.

Add the Ginger Beer:

Pour in the ginger beer last and stir gently with a spoon to preserve the carbonation. A vigorous stir will flatten the drink, so aim for just enough movement to incorporate all ingredients.

Finish and Serve:

Add ice to fill the mug. For an extra touch, garnish with a fresh peach slice and cinnamon stick. The cocktail should be enjoyed immediately while the ginger beer maintains its effervescence.

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My absolute favorite way to enjoy this drink is with Georgia peaches at their peak season. There's something magical about using sun-ripened peaches that have been picked that same day. The aroma alone transforms this from a simple cocktail to a sensory experience that captures summer in a glass.

Make-Ahead Tips

The cinnamon simple syrup can be prepared up to two weeks in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes last-minute entertaining much easier. The peach puree can also be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated in a sealed container with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.

Pitcher Version for Entertaining

When hosting a gathering, prepare this cocktail in bulk by multiplying the recipe by your number of guests. Combine all ingredients except ginger beer in a pitcher and refrigerate. When ready to serve, pour the mixture into individual mugs filled with ice, then top each with ginger beer and stir gently. Using frozen peach slices instead of ice cubes prevents dilution while adding extra peachy flavor.

Seasonal Variations

While this recipe shines with summer peaches, you can adapt it year-round. In fall, try substituting apple puree and adding a dash of nutmeg. Winter calls for cranberry with orange zest instead of lime. Spring welcomes strawberry puree with a hint of basil. The cinnamon simple syrup works beautifully with all these variations, making this a versatile cocktail foundation for any season.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use canned peaches for this cocktail?

Yes, canned peaches without syrup can work well. Blend them into a puree for a similar flavor profile.

→ What can I substitute for fresh peach puree?

If fresh peaches are unavailable, peach nectar or frozen peaches are excellent substitutes. They provide the desired peachy flavor.

→ How far in advance can I prepare the cinnamon syrup?

The cinnamon-infused simple syrup can be made several days ahead. Store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container.

→ What’s the best way to serve a crowd?

For gatherings, transform this cocktail into a pitcher drink. Scale up the ingredients and use frozen peach slices instead of ice to prevent dilution.

→ Do I need copper mugs for this drink?

While copper mugs enhance the experience and keep the drink cold, any sturdy glassware works just as well.

→ Can I omit the cinnamon syrup?

Yes, but the cinnamon syrup adds a warm spice that complements the sweetness of the peach and the ginger flavor.