Watermelon mules are a summery twist on the classic cocktail

A Moscow mule is the perfect seasonal drink: Made with fresh lime, vodka and ginger beer and then served in a copper mug to keep it ice-cold, this cocktail definitely beats the heat. (Interesting tidbit: Despite its Russian-sounding name, Moscow mules are all-American. They were invented in Los Angeles).

But if you’re looking for a fruity twist on this iconic cocktail, then you have to try this recipe for a watermelon mule. Over at A Couple Cooks, Sonja and Alex Overhiser take equal parts ginger beer and watermelon juice to make a fruit-forward rendition of the traditional Moscow mule. The result is pure summertime.

You can find the full recipe here. As you can see, the recipe calls for chopping, blending and then straining your own fresh watermelon juice. (Hint: Check out this handy tool to help you expertly slice watermelon every time.)

If you don’t have the time or you just want to streamline the prep process, you can buy pre-made watermelon juice like Simply watermelon, though do be aware it will then have a higher sugar content and additives like cherry and lemon juice.

Looking for other fun, flavorful twists on the traditional Moscow mule?

Look no further than this recipe for Absolut’s Copper Cup #16, which results in passion fruit mules made with Absolut Elyx vodka (it’s distilled in copper stills, making it extra appropriate for a Moscow mule cocktail!). Made with vodka, passion fruit purée, fresh mint and homemade vanilla cordial, this is an elegant way to make your backyard barbecue feel just a little more special.

If you want to infuse some fruity flavor into your Moscow mule without adding too many steps to your recipe, just reach for a fruit-based vodka like Grey Goose Le Melon. Made with ripe Cavaillon melons, this vodka variation has a sweet, honey-like aftertaste that will pair beautifully with all of your summer cocktails. For this melon mule recipe, all you need is Grey Goose Le Melon vodka, ginger beer and lime wedges. Can’t get any simpler than that!

Want something spicy instead of sweet?

Try this recipe for a spicy Absolut mule, which features a dash of hot sauce to lend some heat to the chilly cocktail.

Enjoy!