Apple Cider Margarita

This easy Apple Cider Margarita combines tequila, fresh unfiltered apple cider, orange liqueur, and fresh lime juice with a cinnamon-sugar rim for a bright, seasonal fall cocktail.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1 COCKTAIL

Ingredients

Margarita

1.5 oz 45 ml blanco or reposado tequila
2 oz 60 ml fresh, unfiltered apple cider
0.75 oz 22 ml triple sec, Cointreau, or Grand Marnier
0.75 oz 22 ml fresh lime juice
Ice for shaking and serving

Cinnamon-Sugar Rim

1 tablespoon 15 g turbinado sugar
½ teaspoon 1.5 g ground cinnamon
Apple cider or maple syrup for the rim

Instructions

Mix the turbinado sugar and cinnamon on a small plate.
Run a lime wedge or brush maple syrup around the glass rim.
Dip the rim into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Add tequila, apple cider, orange liqueur, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker.
Fill the shaker halfway with ice.
Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.
Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice.
Strain the margarita into the glass.
Garnish with an apple slice, lime wheel, or rosemary sprig.

Notes

Fresh, unfiltered apple cider gives the best flavor.
Use 100% agave blanco or reposado tequila.
Avoid añejo tequila.
Cider sweetness varies, so adjust lime juice if needed.
A tiny pinch of kosher salt can help balance a sweet cider.
Don't add ice to a batch until serving.
The base can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead.