The Moscow Mule Sangria is the perfect centerpiece of your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving feast! Featuring vodka, white wine, ginger beer, and seasonal fruit.

Jump to Recipe

Moscow Mule Sangria

I’ve got the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving celebration – the Moscow Mule Sangria! This batch cocktail combines the flavors of two classic drinks –  white sangria and the moscow mule cocktail. The addition of seasonal fruit flavors makes this pitcher cocktail perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season.

The traditional moscow mule ingredients of vodka, ginger beer and lime create a fresh and zesty base for the Moscow Mule Sangria. Adding crisp white wine, cinnamon and tangy apple butter really transform the summery mule into a libation that’s perfect for the season.

This Thanksgiving sangria pitcher cocktail comes together quickly and serves 6 to 8 people so whip up a batch (or 2) for your next get together.

Ingredients for the Moscow Mule Sangria

• Vodka: Opt for a quality, premium vodka. I like the smoothness of Ketel One.
• Apple Butter: Adds a touch of sweetness, depth, and autumnal richness to every sip.
• Sliced lime: One of the traditional Moscow mule ingredients, lime adds tartness that really balances this drink.
• Fresh Seasonal Fruit: Sliced apples and persimmons add a burst of color and bright and vibrant flavors to the mix. Feel free to use whatever seasonal fruit you have on hand. Pears, pomegranate and oranges would also work well in this Thanksgiving sangria.
• White Wine: Choose a crisp and refreshing white wine. Feel free to try a rich red wine for another version. I used Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc.
• Ginger Beer: Provides a bold effervescence. Use whichever brand of ginger beer you like. I had Q Mixers on hand. You can substitute ginger ale in this recipe but will lose some of that zesty ginger spice.
• Cinnamon sticks and Star Anise: Cinnamon sticks and star anise add a festive flair!

How to Make the Moscow Mule Sangria

Crafting this batch recipe is a breeze, making it perfect for Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving festivities.

This recipe tastes best if you let the flavors meld together! So if you have the time, start making your Moscow Mule Sangria 30 minutes to an hour before you want to serve it.

Start by cutting your lime, apple and persimmon into thin slices. Next, add vodka and apple butter to a pitcher (I love this one from CB2). Stir the mixture until the apple butter dissolves. Next, add your sliced fruits and white wine to the mix and stir to combine. I recommend letting the mixture infuse together in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour. The recipe will still be great if you skip this step.

When you’re ready to serve the Moscow Mule Sangria, pour chilled ginger beer into your pitcher and give it a gentle stir. Divide the drink into glasses over ice. For an extra touch, garnish each glass with cinnamon sticks and star anise!

Frequently Asked Questions

What alcohol goes with a mule?

The Moscow Mule traditionally features vodka as its primary spirit. The smooth and clean taste of vodka, especially premium choices like Ketel One, complements the zesty kick of ginger beer and the vibrant flavors in the Moscow Mule Sangria.

What is a sangria made of?

Sangria is a versatile and fruity beverage typically made with wine, mixed fruits, sweeteners, and occasionally additional spirits. The Moscow Mule Sangria elevates the classic recipe with the infusion of white wine, the richness of apple butter, and the fizzy charm of ginger beer.

Can I Customize Moscow Mule Sangria to Suit Different Seasons?

Moscow Mule Sangria is perfectly adaptable to reflect the changing seasons. During the warmer months,  incorporate seasonal fruits like berries, peaches, or citrus for a refreshing twist. In the colder months, infuse deeper, warming notes by adding a touch of mulled spices or opting for a richer red wine instead of white.

What exactly is apple butter?

Apple butter is a delectable spread crafted from slow-cooked apples, typically seasoned with spices like cinnamon and cloves. Distinct from traditional butter, it contains no dairy and achieves its luxurious consistency through a lengthy cooking process. The result is a velvety, intensely flavored apple creation.

Which white wine is best for sangria?

Selecting the right white wine for your sangria can enhance its overall flavor profile. Opt for a crisp and refreshing white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the fruity and vibrant elements in the Moscow Mule Sangria.

Can I make the Moscow Mule Sangria in advance? 

Yes, you can prepare the Moscow Mule Sangria in advance to streamline your hosting experience. Follow the recipe instructions up to the point of adding the chilled ginger beer. Mix the vodka, apple butter, and sliced fruits with white wine, then cover and refrigerate the mixture. When you’re ready to serve, add the ginger beer and give it a gentle stir. This allows the flavors to meld, creating a well-balanced and refreshing Thanksgiving sangria for your festive celebration.

More Festive Recipes to Try

As you embark on your cocktail journey, consider exploring these other festive recipes that promise to elevate your beverage game:

• Autumn Hugo Spritz
• Spiced Cranberry Holiday Sangria
• Scarlet Cranberry Margarita

If you’re interested in taking Insta-worthy photos of your cocktails too, check out my free training on how to take Food & Drink Photos on a Budget!

And if you aren’t already, definitely follow me on Instagram and Facebook, to make sure you never miss a recipe, get tons of behind-the-scenes pics of everything I’m shaking up, shooting, and enjoying!