I love making Cranberry Margarita. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and refreshing. With fresh cranberry juice, lime, and tequila, this cocktail is always a crowd-pleaser at parties or a cozy night in.
Contents
Cranberry Margarita Recipe
Cranberry margarita is a lively twist on the classic margarita. It blends the bold flavors of cranberry juice with tequila, orange liqueur, and a squeeze of fresh lime. This cocktail stands out for its beautiful ruby color and irresistible balance of tartness and sweetness.
This margarita is popular at winter gatherings, Thanksgiving, or even just cozy nights in by the fire. The addition of cranberry juice not only adds depth and brightness but also gives this drink its unmistakable holiday vibe.
You can enjoy this cocktail with savory appetizers such as charcuterie boards with prosciutto, Genoa salame, and artisanal cheeses. Fresh guacamole, crispy nachos, and ceviche work well, too.
Classic Mexican dishes like enchiladas or grilled shrimp tacos make an excellent main course pairing. The drink also goes well with roasted turkey sliders with cranberry relish, barbacoa, or chicken quesadillas.
For side dishes, try a bright kale salad with pomegranate seeds or chips. Light desserts such as citrus sorbet or a festive cranberry-orange loaf make a sweet finish.
Here’s how to make the cranberry margarita:
Cranberry Margarita
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 4 oz tequila (silver or blanco)
- 2 oz triple sec (Cointreau or orange liqueur)
- 3 oz cranberry juice (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1-2 tsp simple syrup optional, to taste
- Ice cubes
- Salt or sugar for rimming optional
- Lime wedges and fresh cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- Run a lime wedge around the rim of 2 cocktail glasses, then dip into salt or sugar.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, triple sec, cranberry juice, lime juice, and simple syrup (if using).
- Add ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.
- Strain into the prepared glasses over fresh ice.
- Add lime wedges and fresh cranberries.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use diet cranberry juice.
- To make it a pitcher (6 servings), multiply all ingredients by 3.
- Swap triple sec with Grand Marnier for a smoother orange note.
- Garnish with sugared cranberries for a festive holiday touch.
Variations
If you’re missing an ingredient or just want to try something new, you can create other cranberry margarita variations. Below are some ideas to get you started.
- Sparkling Cranberry Margarita adds a splash of Prosecco or Cava, bringing bubbles and a touch of sophistication to the classic drink.
- FrozenVersion blends frozen cranberries, ice, tequila, and lime juice for a slushy, ultra-cold version perfect for sunny days or festive gatherings.
- Spicy Version incorporates sliced jalapeño or muddled chili in the shaker to kick up the heat and invigorate your taste buds.
- Cranberry Margarita with Fruit Purée swaps juice for cranberry purée, creating a thicker, more intensely flavored cocktail.
- Sugared-Spice Rim features turbinado sugar mixed with cinnamon and nutmeg for a warming twist on the traditional salted rim.
- Mocktail Version replaces tequila and liqueur with sparkling water or ginger beer for a non-alcoholic, kid-friendly version.
- Cranberry-Orange Margarita includes both cranberry and fresh orange juice, intensifying the citrus character and adding extra sweetness.
Each variation brings its own personality, ensuring a cranberry margarita for every mood and occasion!