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Best Easy Apple Cider Margarita with Cinnamon Rim

apple cider margarita with cinnamon rim - featured image

A crisp, refreshing fall cocktail that perfectly balances tart lime, smooth tequila, and sweet-tart apple cider with a warm cinnamon-sugar rim. Ready in under 10 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for impromptu gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz blanco tequila (Espolón or Casamigos recommended)
  • 1 oz fresh apple cider (unfiltered, refrigerated)
  • ¾ oz fresh lime juice (about half a large lime)
  • ½ oz orange liqueur (Cointreau or triple sec)
  • ¼ oz maple syrup (optional, Grade A for milder flavor)
  • Ice (preferably large cubes)
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 lime wedge (for wetting the rim)
  • 1 thin apple slice (Honeycrisp or Fuji, for garnish)
  • 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
  • 1 fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon on a small shallow plate. Stir with a fork until evenly combined.
  2. Run a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass. Invert the glass and twist it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat. Tap off excess and let dry for about 30 seconds.
  3. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add 2 oz blanco tequila, 1 oz fresh apple cider, ¾ oz fresh lime juice, ½ oz orange liqueur, and ¼ oz maple syrup (if using).
  4. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels painfully cold.
  5. Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice. Strain the margarita into the glass through a fine-mesh strainer if desired.
  6. Garnish with a thin apple slice on the rim, a cinnamon stick, and a fresh rosemary sprig if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use fresh unfiltered apple cider and fresh lime juice. Let the cinnamon-sugar rim dry for 30 seconds before pouring to prevent it from sliding off. For a non-alcoholic version, replace tequila and orange liqueur with sparkling water and ginger beer. Batch for parties by mixing all liquid ingredients (except ice) in a pitcher up to 24 hours in advance.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider margarita, fall cocktail, cinnamon rim margarita, apple margarita, autumn drink, tequila cocktail, easy margarita recipe