Automated Citrus & Spice Mule

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A refreshing mule with layered citrus notes and a hint of aromatic spice, evoking streamlined precision in every sip. This quick recipe, ready in about 6 minutes, brings together vodka, fresh lime juice, ginger beer for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 190 calories and feeds 1, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 6 min Serves 1 Cocktails cuisine 190 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Equipment for this recipe

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a mixing glass, gently muddle 6 fresh mint leaves with 1/2 oz cardamom syrup to release the mint oils.
  2. Step 2: Fill a copper mule mug with crushed ice to the top.
  3. Step 3: Pour in 2 oz vodka and 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice over the ice.
  4. Step 4: Add the muddled mint and cardamom mixture, then top with 3 oz ginger beer.
  5. Step 5: Stir gently with a bar spoon for 15 seconds to combine without losing effervescence.
  6. Step 6: Garnish with a lime wheel rested on the rim and a sprig of fresh mint tucked inside.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Automated Citrus & Spice Mule take to make?

Total time is about 6 minutes (6 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bartenders find this fits a single afternoon; scale up the batch for parties or pitchers.

How do I store leftover Automated Citrus & Spice Mule?

Refrigerate any leftover automated citrus & spice mule in a sealed pitcher or jar for up to 3–4 days. Do not reheat — drinks are served chilled. If the recipe uses sparkling water or fresh herbs, hold those back and add fresh just before pouring so the drink stays bright and fizzy.

Can I substitute ingredients in Automated Citrus & Spice Mule?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Automated Citrus & Spice Mule for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 1 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 1). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Automated Citrus & Spice Mule?

Cocktails quick meals like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.