A bourbon mule is the surprising addition your Derby party needs.

A simple swap of bourbon for the traditionalvodkainstantly transforms this drink into something no bourbon-loving Southerner could pass up.

Whichever you choose, you don’t need to break the bank to make this cocktail.

Southern Living Bourbon Mule in copper mugs to serve

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Any budget-friendly option you already have on hand will certainly make for a delicious bourbon mule.

How To Make a Bourbon Mule

Making a bourbon mule couldn’t be easier.

Top with ginger beer and garnish with a mint sprig, and you’re ready to enjoy.

Southern Living Bourbon Mule ingredients

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Then, mix to combine the bourbon and lime juice in a large pitcher.

Cover and keep cold until ready to serve.

Have the cups portioned out with ice and stored in the freezer.

Southern Living Bourbon Mule filling the cup with ice

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Serve with appetizers likedeviled eggsandcharcuterie boardsto mini sliders or Buffalo wings.

Even desserts can benefit from the warm notes of caramel and oak found in bourbon.

)bourbon

1Tbsp.fresh lime juice(from 1 lime)

1/2cupnonalcoholic ginger beer(from 1 [12.7-oz.]

Southern Living Bourbon Mule adding the bourbon to the cup

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Add bourbon:

Add bourbon and lime juice; stir.

Finish with ginger beer:

Top with ginger beer.

Garnish with mint sprig.

Southern Living Bourbon Mule topping with ginger beer

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Southern Living Bourbon Mule garnishing with a mint sprig

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox