Campfire Mule
Smoky, sweet, and just the right amount of kick—this Campfire Mule is bourbon’s answer to the classic Moscow Mule.
It swaps vodka for bourbon, adds a dreamy toasted marshmallow syrup, fresh lemon juice, bitters, and that crisp snap of ginger beer. Serve it ice-cold in a copper cup and don’t forget the toasted marshmallow on top.
This one’s destined to be a fall favorite—made for campfire nights and flannel layers. And hey, even if your “campfire” is one of those electric thingamagigs on the patio, it still counts. A cozy bourbon cocktail in hand just goes with the season.
We haven’t actually had this one down by the campfire yet, but it’s on the agenda. Next time the crew’s up at the cabin, I’ll hand off fire duty to John—our unofficial survivalist and the one voted most likely to outlive us all in a zombie apocalypse. (Sorry, Jeff, but you know it’s true.)
The rest of the guys can do their best rugged impressions while I roll in with a tray of Campfire Mules and a bag of marshmallows ready for toasting. Everyone has their role—and mine always seems to involve cocktails.
Ready to mix up a drink that’ll make your fire pit feel fancy? Here’s what you’ll need to get that cozy, toasty magic in a mug.
Campfire Mule Ingredients
- Bourbon – Loving Buffalo Trace for this one, but go with your favorite.
- Aromatic bitters – Adds depth and brings out all the warm, cozy notes.
- Toasted marshmallow simple syrup – So yummy and worth the effort. (Plain simple syrup works just fine too—check out my Vodka Hibiscus Simple Syrup post or see the quick version below.)
- Fresh lemon juice – For a bright, citrusy kick.
- Ginger beer, to top – I’m a big fan of Goslings, but use what you love.
- Toasted marshmallow, for garnish – Optional, but highly encouraged if you’re feeling festive (or trying to impress your crew).
How to Make a Campfire Mule
So let’s talk copper mug. Do you need it for this campfire mule? Technically, no. But should you invest in a few? Absolutely. It just does something to the whole experience—especially when you’re sipping fireside. We’re not out here half-committing to cozy, right? YOLO and all that.
Alright, mug rant over. Let’s make a campfire mule:
- Fill that copper beauty up with chunky ice.
- Add 2–3 dashes of aromatic bitters directly onto the ice.
- Pour in the bourbon, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
- Top with ginger beer—your call here. Go to the tip-top or keep it mellow.
- Stir with a cocktail spoon.
- Garnish with a toasted marshmallow.
How to Make Marshmallow Simple Syrup
Add 2–3 marshmallows to a small saucepot and turn the heat to medium. Stir with a wooden spoon until they smell toasty and get a little melty—no need to fully dissolve them.
Add 1 cup of water and ½ cup of sugar, and keep stirring until the sugar dissolves and the marshmallows start to melt into the mix.
Turn off the heat and let it sit and steep for at least 15 minutes. Then strain and store.
Optional twist: I sometimes toss in a few slices of fresh ginger while it steeps for a little gingery kick. Highly recommend.
Tips for the Perfect Fall Mule
Use chunky ice – Those big freezer cubes aren’t just for show—they keep your drink colder, longer, and melt slower so your mule doesn’t get watered down.
Fresh lemon juice only – Trust me, skip the bottle. That fresh squeeze gives your mule the perfect zing.
Toast your marshmallows – A little char = a lot of flavor. Kitchen torch, stovetop burner, or campfire—get that golden crust.
Go copper if you can – It’s the whole vibe. A frosty cocktail and a warm fire equal a happy camper.
Taste before you top – Add ginger beer to your liking. Some like it bold and spicy, others just want a splash. You do you.
Make it a Mocktail
Skipping the booze? Totally works. This campfire mule holds up just fine without the bourbon. Just mix up:
- Toasted marshmallow simple syrup
- Fresh lemon juice
- A good ginger beer
Not Feeling Toasty? Try These Instead
Don’t feel like whipping up a whole toasted marshmallow syrup? Totally fine. You’ve got options:
- Plain simple syrup – Always a solid backup.
- Honey – Adds a warm, floral sweetness that still feels cozy.
- Maple syrup – Now we’re really leaning into fall.
If You Like This Campfire Mule, You’ll Love These Too
Tried this toasty mule and thinking, “What else you got?” Don’t worry—I’ve got a few more cozy cocktails that are perfect for fall sipping. Whether you’re team bourbon, gin curious, or just grabbing whatever bottle’s half full, these picks have you covered.
Got a favorite fall cocktail of your own? Or planning to serve up this Campfire Mule at your next cozy hang? I want to hear all about it! Drop me a comment below, tag me on Instagram @cabin_cravings, or join my cozy crew for more seasonal sips and bites straight to your inbox. Cheers to flannel, fire pits, and, of course, bourbon.
Campfire Mule
Equipment
- 1 Sauce Pot for marshmallow simple syrup
Ingredients
Toasted Marshmallow Simple Syrup
- 2-3 marshmallows
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup sugar
Campfire Mule
- 2-3 dashes aromatic cocktail bitters
- 2 oz bourbon
- ½ oz toasted marshmallow simple syrup
- ¾ oz lemon juice
- ginger beer to top
Instructions
Toasted Marshmallow Simple Syrup
- Add 2–3 marshmallows to a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir with a wooden spoon until they smell toasty and start to melt—they don’t need to fully dissolve.
- Add 1 cup of water and ½ cup of sugar to the pot. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the marshmallows melt in.
- Turn off the heat and let the mixture steep for at least 15 minutes.
- Strain and store in the fridge.
Campfire Mule
- Fill a copper mug or glass with ice.
- Add bitters directly onto the ice.
- Pour in bourbon, toasted marshmallow syrup, and lemon juice.
- Top with ginger beer to taste—fill it up or just add a splash.
- Stir gently with a cocktail spoon.
- Garnish with a toasted marshmallow on a skewer and serve.
Notes
- You can swap toasted marshmallow simple syrup with plain simple syrup, maple syrup, or honey.
