Sandia Burro (Watermelon Mexican Mule)

by Yvette Marquez on May 29, 2021

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In this Moscow Mule-inspired cocktail, I substituted traditional vodka for tequila and added the bright, refreshing kick of watermelon agua fresca. While some of you might want to call it a Mexican Mule, I call this cocktail a Sandia Burro, literally “watermelon donkey.” It’s spicy, sweet, and screams summer, making it the perfect recipe to whip up this Memorial Day weekend.

Table of Contents

What is a Mexican Mule?

If you’re someone who likes an occasional cocktail, I’m sure you’re familiar with the Moscow Mule, a simple drink made with vodka, lime, and ginger beer. If you love a Moscow Mule, but wish it had a little more oomph, this Southern cousin replaces the traditional smooth Russian vodka with a shot of tequila blanco.

Using tequila gives this watermelon cocktail a crisp and herbal aroma with spicy undertones with a sweet and smoky kick. I gave the drink a south-of-the-border treatment by using agua de sandia, tequila, lime, and ginger beer. I have dubbed it a Sandia Burro, my version of a Mexican Mule.

One of my favorite things about playing bartender is coming up with simple cocktails that I can come back to time and again. This yummy Mexican Mule relies on one of my favorite non-alcoholic summertime beverages – agua de sandia (watermelon agua fresca) – which means I also have a virgin option for the kiddos and DDs. BONUS!

I found that adding agua de sandia balances the spicy tequila and ginger beer quite nicely. The sweet watermelon agua fresca is freshly made and perfect for a summer gathering. Make a large batch for the kids, and use it as a mixer for this unforgettable watermelon cocktail.

How to Make My Sandia Burro Watermelon Cocktail

This cocktail recipe is SO SIMPLE, you’re going to love it.

Pour the agua de sandia, tequila, and lime juice into a cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Shake for about ten seconds then pour into a mug with ice.

TIP: Need a refresher on how to make agua de sandia? Check out my post here!

Top off with ginger beer and garnish with a watermelon wedge, lime slice, and mint. Salud!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a big batch of Mexican Mules for my party?

Sure thing! I’d recommend making a pitcher of the tequila, agua fresca, and lime juice mixture in a 2-2-1 ratio. Set up a bar with a shaker, an ice bucket, and the mix. People can shake their own cocktails to order, then top with fizzy ginger beer and garnish.

What is the best tequila to buy for making Mexican Mules?

I personally prefer a crisp, clean tasting tequila blanco for this cocktail. There are a ton available at all kinds of price points. I generally reach for Exotico brand, but any 100% agave tequila will do the trick.

Can I substitute ginger ale for ginger beer?

I honestly don’t recommend it. Ginger ale is generally much sweeter than ginger beer and doesn’t have the same spicy, gingery kick we want from our Burros. Most major grocery stores now carry at least one brand of ginger beer, so if you can get it, grab it. You’ll be glad you did.

Latina holding a watermelon summer cocktail and smiling at the camera

Need more happy hour inspiration?

Check out some of my other favorite recipes:

If you made my Sandia Burro (Watermelon Mexican Mule), please rate and review it below. I’d love to know how it turned out for you!

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