Add lime juice to mug, followed by vodka, apple cider, ginger beer, and optional simple syrup.
Mix well, then garnish with a lime slice, cinnamon stick, and diced apple, if desired.
Serve immediately. Enjoy!
Notes
Moscow Mules usually don't have sugar added, however if your cider isn't very sweet, a little simple syrup will enhance the flavors of the drink. I recommend making one cocktail with simple syrup and one without, then decide which you prefer. To make this drink by the pitcher, use the following proportions:
¼ part lime juice
1 part vodka
1 ½ parts apple cider
2 parts ginger beer
¼ part simple syrup (optional)
For example, if you use 1 cup vodka, you will also need 1 ½ cups apple cider, 2 cups ginger beer, ¼ cup lime juice, and ¼ cup simple syrup (if using) ... this will make 4 drinks.For 8 drinks, you'll need 2 cups vodka, 3 cups apple cider, 4 cups ginger beer, ½ cup lime juice, and ½ cup simple syrup. For 16 drinks, you'd need 4 cups vodka, 6 cups apple cider, 8 cups ginger beer, 1 cup lime juice, and 1 cup simple syrup.To make a pitcher in advance, mix up all the ingredients except the ginger beer. Add the ginger beer just before serving to maintain its carbonation.