Holiday Mule Mocktail

A non-alcoholic, holiday version of the Moscow mule. It uses a cranberry shrub instead of lime and a splash of club soda instead of vodka. It's a perfect combination for an aperitivo or snack. If possible, serve with savory macarons as a garnish; thread each macaron onto a skewer, put two in each glass, and serve immediately.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 20 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Calories: 466 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• ice cubes
• 2 fluid ounces club soda
• 2 pods cardamom, crushed
• 4 whole allspice berries, cracked
• ¼ (1 inch) piece cinnamon stick
• 8 fluid ounces ginger beer (such as Fentimans)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine vinegar, water, and sugar in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add cranberries, cardamom pods, allspice berries, and cinnamon stick; bring to a boil. Stir and cover until cranberries begin to pop, 5 to 10 minutes. Stir again, being careful that cranberries do not burn you as they pop. Reduce heat and simmer until sugar has dissolved and cranberries have released their juice, about 10 minutes.

Step 2

Remove from heat and allow to steep for 15 minutes. Strain into a container, seal, and refrigerate. Discard pulp.

Step 3

Fill 2 highball glasses halfway with ice. Add 1 fluid ounce cranberry shrub, 4 fluid ounces ginger beer, and 1 fluid ounce club soda to each glass. Stir well.