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Perfect Apple Cider Margarita Easy Fall Cocktail Recipe

apple cider margarita - featured image

This tart, refreshing apple cider margarita balances tequila, lime, and unfiltered apple cider with a warm cinnamon sugar rim. It’s a quick, easy fall cocktail that’s perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz (60 ml) tequila blanco or reposado
  • 3 oz (90 ml) unfiltered apple cider
  • 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz (15 ml) orange liqueur (triple sec or Cointreau)
  • 1/2 oz (15 ml) maple syrup or agave nectar (optional)
  • Ice (large cubes preferred)
  • 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp (3 g) ground cinnamon
  • Lime wedge (for rim)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cinnamon sugar rim: Mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together on a small plate until evenly combined.
  2. Moisten the glass rim: Run a lime wedge around the entire rim of your glass to coat it evenly.
  3. Coat the rim: Turn the glass upside down and gently press the rim into the cinnamon sugar mixture, rotating slowly. Tap off any excess.
  4. Fill the glass with ice: Add large ice cubes to the prepared glass, filling it about three-quarters full.
  5. Combine the liquid ingredients: In a separate small glass or measuring cup, combine the tequila, apple cider, fresh lime juice, and orange liqueur. Stir gently. If using maple syrup or agave, add it now and stir until dissolved.
  6. Pour over ice: Slowly pour the mixture into the prepared glass over the ice.
  7. Stir gently: Give it a few gentle stirs with a bar spoon. Do not over-stir.
  8. Garnish and serve: Add a thin apple slice or a cinnamon stick for garnish if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use unfiltered, cloudy apple cider for best flavor. Fresh lime juice is essential. The cinnamon sugar rim can be toasted slightly over a low flame for 2-3 seconds to enhance flavor. For a party, mix the liquid ingredients in a pitcher ahead of time and rim glasses just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider margarita, fall cocktail, easy cocktail, tequila, cinnamon sugar rim, apple cider