Whether You’re Celebrating Dry January Or You’re Still Ringing in the New Year, This Espresso Mule Is the Perfect Mixed Drink

For many, January means a cleansing period, with alcohol off-limits. But for others, 2020 was challenging enough of a year to justify a less-than-dry month. Whether you’re letting the drinks flow or trying to cut back, the espresso mule is a delicious and unexpected combination of flavors. Even better, it feels just as at home in the chillier months - thanks to the warm spiciness of ginger beer - as it does in the summer for its refreshing bubbles and citrus notes. This is one drink we’ll be toasting with all year long.

A Fresh Take on the Moscow Mule

A spicier twist on the espresso tonic, the espresso mule uses ginger beer in place of tonic water. Add a twist of lime for a delicious mocktail that feels fresh and – best of all – can be enjoyed any time of the day.

If you’re looking to kick it up a notch from there, you’ll need to get out the tequila. While the classic Moscow Mule calls for vodka, we love the earthy, delicate fruitiness of tequila that combines perfectly with coffee’s own flavors. If you’re adding tequila, be sure to mix it with your espresso before pouring in the ginger beer for a more even distribution.

Coffee and Ginger

Although this flavor combination may sound unusual, the ever-popular gingerbread latte proves otherwise. Sweet and spicy, ginger plays beautifully with coffee’s own complex balance of sweetness and acidity. For a cozier take on this pairing, try adding ground ginger to your brew. Or, as one recipe suggests, add chopped crystallized ginger to your coffee grounds before brewing.

Espresso or Cold Brew?

Although this recipe calls for espresso, cold brew is also a delicious substitution. Just like going from espresso tonic to cold brew tonic, you’ll just need to adjust your proportions: A 1:1 ratio is usually a good place to start here.

Ingredients

• 1 oz espresso

• 4 oz ginger beer (feel free to add less or more to taste)

• Wedge of lime

• 1.5 oz tequila (optional)

• Ice

Directions

1. Fill a mule mug with ice and pour espresso in. If using tequila, mix with espresso in a separate glass before pouring over ice.

2. Top with ginger beer and add lime as a garnish.