Kentucky Mule
I’m an animal lover!
It doesn’t matter the size of the animal, to me, they’re all little angels 👼. David likes to say that I’m a “creature” magnet, as they like to get close to me and be petted. I have many stories about people we’ve met whose pets won’t approach strangers, and next thing you know, they’re right next to me.
Horses 🐎 are among my favorites. They’re so powerful, intelligent, and majestic! They have grace and beauty that many other animals don’t possess. During Kentucky Derby, which takes place this coming weekend, they will exhibit their strength, agility, and speed.
While watching the 14 races, people will enjoy their Southern comfort food like Hot Brown Sliders, Benedictine Spread, Pimento Cheese dip, Smoked Meats, and others. For dessert 🍰, there’s Derby Pie, which is extremely similar to my Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie, except walnuts are the trademark of this sweet treat.
They will also sip their favorite bourbon-based cocktails. It could be the most notable Mint Julep, or others such as Blackberry Bourbon Smash, Kentucky Oaks Lily, Woodford Reserve Spire, Old Fashioned 🥃, Bourbon Seelbach, or this one… Kentucky Mule!
This drink is flavorful and very refreshing! The combination of bourbon, lime juice, and ginger beer makes this Southern cocktail perfect to sip on a hot summer day or while watching 👀 the races. What makes it so popular is that it takes just a couple minutes to make it.
I’m not a ginger beer drinker. The only time I enjoy it is when I make a Kentucky Mule! It gives that crisp and spicy kick to the cocktail. It can be sipped on its own or paired with food. I like serving it with spicy BBQ dishes 🔥 like Caribbean Jerk Rotisserie Chicken, Nigerian Beef Suya, Grilled Jalapeño Poppers, etc.
Here’s some fun food trivia…
Did you know that there are over 125,000 Mint Juleps served at Churchill Downs each year? Being the official Kentucky Derby cocktail since 1939, during that event, there are more than 10,000 bottles of bourbon, over 2,250 pounds of fresh mint, and 475,000 pounds of ice 🧊 to supply the demand.
Traditionally served in a copper or stainless-steel mug so it stays cold longer and garnished with a lime wheel and fresh mint 🍃, this Kentucky Mule is ideal for the upcoming event or to sip on a hot summer day. With caramel notes from the bourbon and a spicy kick from the ginger beer, this refreshing Southern drink is a must-try…
Cheers!🥂
Check out these other fabulous cocktail recipes… 😀
– Spanish Sangria
– Manhattan Cocktail
– Strawberry Mango Margarita
– Frostbite Cocktail
– Lemon Drop Limoncello Martini
– Strawberry Daiquiri
– Boozy Mexican Coffee
– Peach Bellini
– Watermelon Mojito Cocktail
and for even more cocktail and alcohol-free beverage recipes 🍹🥤, click on this link… Recipe Category • Beverages
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Kentucky Mule
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Ingredients
- 4 ounces bourbon
- 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice tips & tricks
- ice cubes as needed
- 1 1/2 cups (12 oz.) ginger beer, chilled
- 2 large lime wheels, for garnish
- 2 large mint sprigs, for garnish tips & tricks
Directions
- In a cocktail mixing glass, add bourbon and freshly squeezed lime juice; stir well.
- Fill up two stainless steel cups or rock glasses with ice cubes.
- Divide the mix evenly between the two glasses before topping them up with ginger beer. Garnish each cup with a lime wheel and a mint sprig. Makes 2 drinks.
Don't forget to rate and comment on this recipe!

It sounded good but I didn’t like it. There’s nothing wrong with this recipe. It was my first time trying ginger beer and I just didn’t care for it. Could I sub it for something else?
I was quite happy with this drink. It’s a keeper!
I’m from the South and I make mine exactly like yours.
That’s awesome 😀! Enjoy your evening, Mae.
My ultimate cocktail during the Kentucky Derby is a Mint Julep. This year I made an exception and it was delicious! Have a good one, Miss Frankie!
I’m hosting a KD party tomorrow and wanted to make sure everything will be picture-perfect. I made this drink last night as well as some from other bloggers. This one won the race!! Later on, I’ll try your Oak’s Lily. Thank you, Ma’am.
I tried your mint julep last summer and loved it. I’m sure I’ll love this one too.
It’s not really warm right now but when it is, I’ll give this drink a try. Thanks chef!
Interesting!
Hi Frankie, I’m from White Rock and have been following you for years now! I love your website and videos. You’re not the traditional “blah-blah-blah” bloggers. I’ve tried dozens and dozens of recipes from you and cocktails too. One of my favorites is the peach bellini; it’s better than Cactus Club! As you know, we’re getting nice, warm weather this weekend and Derby or not, I’m trying this drink. Thank you.
I’ve had a Moscow Mule but never this version. I’ll certainly give it a try.
I’m going to try it, cheers!