Apple Cider Margarita to Embrace the Chill

2 cups of margarita with apple cider

Do you know what’s perfect for a cold Sunday night? For me, it’s staying at home, curling up on the couch for a cozy movie night with a glass of Apple Cider Margarita.

Classic apple cider margarita Recipe

Apple Cider Margarita is a seasonal twist on the classic margarita, combining the refreshing elements of tequila and lime with the rich, sweet flavors of apple cider. There’s something about the combination of the chilly weather outside and the warmth of a well-crafted drink that makes the whole experience feel indulgent.

2 glasses of best Apple Cider Margarita, garnished with cinnamon stick
Half-baked harvest apple cider margarita

With the first sip, the cinnamon warms my throat, and the apple cider is sweet and tart, followed by the subtle kick of tequila. All warms me from the inside out. To make this drink, you’ll need a cup of apple cider which can be made with the recipe here. Here is how to make the Apple Cider Margarita:

2 cups of margarita with apple cider

Simple Apple Cider Margarita

Perfect for warming up those chilly nights. Fresh apple cider meets premium tequila, brightened with lime juice and balanced with a hint of cinnamon and warming spices.
No ratings yet
Total Time 7 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine American, Mexican
Servings 2
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 4 oz tequila
  • 2 oz triple sec
  • 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Apple slices and cinnamon sugar for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a shaker, combine apple cider, tequila, triple sec, and lime juice.
  • Shake well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
  • Rim the glasses with cinnamon sugar by dipping the edges in water and then in the sugar.
  • Fill each glass with ice cubes.
  • Pour the margarita mixture over the ice in each glass.
  • Garnish with apple slices for a fresh and crisp touch.

Nutrition

Calories: 210kcal
Keyword apple cider margarita, autumn recipes, cocktail recipes, summer margarita recipe, Thanksgiving cocktail
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Variations

Besides the basic and classic recipe above, you can add different ingredients to make different variations of this drink. Here are some ideas for you:

1. Apple Cider Cinnamon Margarita features the aromatic touch of cinnamon. This variation is a cozy and flavorful twist on the traditional cocktail, perfect for sipping by the fireside.

  • Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon to the apple cider
  • A cinnamon sugar rim for extra warmth and spice.
Best Apple Cider Margarita recipe with cranberry
Apple Cider Cranberry Margarita

2. Spicy Variation: For those who enjoy a kick in their cocktail, the spicy drink is for you. This variation adds a fiery dimension that elevates the drink to new heights. My preferred spicy adaptation includes:

  • Optional ginger liqueur float
  • Fresh jalapeño muddle technique
  • Chipotle-cinnamon rim
  • Floating thin jalapeño rings

3. Hard Cider Adaptation: Replace the 1 cup of apple cider with 1 cup of hard cider to give it a bubbly, alcoholic twist.

4. Sparkling Version: With the effervescence of sparkling water enhancing the crispness of apple cider, this version provides a delightful fizzy kick that dances on the palate.

  • Substitute half of the apple cider with sparkling water or club soda for a light, fizzy touch.

5. Smoky Apple Cider Margarita: Infused with a hint of smokiness created by smoky-flavored spirits, such as mezcal or a smoky tequila, this margarita variation brings a bold and sophisticated character to the table.

  • Swap the tequila with smoky mezcal for a deeper, earthier flavor.

6. Caramel Flavor: A decadent take on the classic, the caramel version introduces rich and buttery caramel notes into the mix.

  • Add 1 tbsp of caramel syrup to the apple cider for a sweet, indulgent take
  • Rim the glass with caramel and cinnamon sugar.

7. Apple Cider Cranberry Margarita combines the tartness of cranberries with the mellow sweetness of apple cider. This vibrant and colorful variation is a perfect addition to holiday gatherings.

  • Add 2 oz of cranberry juice to the apple cider for a tart, fruity blend.

8. Apple Cider Mezcal Margarita: Similar to the smoky version above, this drink gets the smoky flavor but only from the mezcal as the base spirit.

  • Replace the tequila with mezcal
  • Use a tajin or smoked salt rim to amplify the smoky, complex flavor.

9. Smoky Harvest Version: This version is sweeter and more autumnal than other smoky versions with the addition of maple syrup and orange liqueur. It’s also garnished with rosemary.

  • Use both mezcal and tequila in equal parts (2 oz each) for a rich, layered smoky and harvest-inspired flavor.

Pairing suggestions

Apple Cider Margarita offers delightful fall flavors. To elevate your sipping experience, try pairing these cocktails with foods and garnishes that complement their unique taste.

1. Appetizers:

  • Bruschetta: Tomato and basil add a fresh note that pairs well with the drink.
  • Stuffed Mushrooms: The earthiness of mushrooms complements the spiced apple cider.
  • Deviled Eggs: Their creamy texture works harmoniously with the margarita’s citrusy sweetness.
  • Butternut squash soup or spiced nuts to complement the warmth.

2. Desserts

  • Apple Pie or Crisp: Echo the cocktail’s apple flavor with a warm, comforting dessert.
  • Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These treats harmonize perfectly with the margarita’s spiced notes.
  • Cheesecake: Whether plain or spiced, cheesecake offers a rich contrast to the drink’s refreshing qualities.

3. Savory Dishes

  • Grilled Chicken or Pork: The smoky flavors from grilled meats enhance the sweetness of the apple cider.
  • Tacos: Spicy chicken or fish tacos provide a nice balance to the margarita’s sweetness.
  • Cheese Platter: Sharp cheddar, goat cheese, and blue cheese contrast beautifully with the cocktail’s flavors.

Troubleshooting common issues

1. Balance Problems

  1. Too Sweet:
    • Increase lime juice
    • Use less sweet cider
    • Add bitters
  2. Too Tart:
    • Add honey syrup
    • Select sweeter cider
    • Reduce lime
  3. Lacking Depth:
    • Infuse tequila
    • Add baking spices
    • Float mezcal

2. Watery Texture

If your drink ends up watery, ensure that you’re not over-diluting it with ice when shaking or pouring. Use ice sparingly in your shaker and glass. Or you can use larger ice cubes for slow dilution.

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