This Cranberry Margarita is festive, refreshing, and easy to make. Tart cranberry, tequila, and lime create a cocktail perfect for holidays or celebrations.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
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Festive look - That ruby red color pops on any table.
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Simple ingredients - No syrups or complicated steps needed.
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Customizable - Make it on the rocks, frozen, or even as a pitcher.
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Year-round flavor - Fresh cranberries in the fall and winter, cranberry juice cocktails any time of year.
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Key Ingredients You'll Need
- Tequila - Silver (blanco) tequila keeps the flavors clean and bright, while reposado adds a slightly oaky depth.
- Cranberry Juice - 100% pure cranberry juice gives a tart flavor, while cranberry juice cocktail adds sweetness. Both work-it just depends on how tangy you like it.
- Fresh Lime Juice - Skip bottled lime juice; fresh-squeezed makes all the difference.
- Salt and/or Sugar for the Rim - Salt highlights the tart flavors, sugar makes it taste more like a treat.
*See the recipe card for the complete list of ingredients and quantities.
Variations to Try
Frozen Cranberry Margarita - Blend with ice for a slushy version.
Pitcher Style - Multiply the ingredients by 6-8 for easy serving at parties.
Spiced Cranberry Margarita - Add a splash of cinnamon syrup or garnish with a rosemary sprig for holiday flair.
Sparkling Cranberry Margarita - Top with a splash of club soda or sparkling wine for bubbles.
Sugared Cranberries are the Perfect Garnish
Sugared cranberries make the perfect garnish for a Cranberry Margarita, adding a frosted sparkle that catches the eye. Their sweet-tart flavor complements the cocktail beautifully, giving it a festive finish that feels just right for the season.
They are easier to make than you might think, with fresh cranberries and sugar. They also make a beautiful addition to desserts, cheese boards, and holiday table settings.
FAQs
Yes. Mix the tequila, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and lime juice together in a pitcher and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir before serving, then pour over ice.
Blanco tequila is the classic choice for a bright, crisp flavor. Reposado works if you like a slightly richer drink. Avoid gold tequila labeled "mixto," as it usually contains additives.
Not at all. Fresh cranberries look pretty for garnish, but the flavor comes from the juice. Use them if they're in season, but don't stress if they're not available.
Yes, cranberry juice cocktail is sweeter and easier to drink. If you use pure cranberry juice, you may want to add simple syrup to balance the tartness.
If you get a chance to make this Cranberry Margarita Recipe, tag me on Instagram or Facebook and show me, or leave a review below! You can also follow me on Pinterest and sign up for my e-mail list to receive more fun and delicious recipes in your inbox.
Cranberry Margarita
Equipment
- juicer
- rimmer dish or small plate
- garnish stick
Ingredients
Cranberry Orange Margarita
- 2 ounces silver tequila
- 2 ounces cranberry juice
- ½ ounces orange liqueur (I used Grand Marnier)
- 1 ounces fresh lime juice
Garnishes
Instructions
- Prepare a cocktail glass by dipping the rim in water or agave syrup and then rimming sugar. Add fresh ice and prepare the candided cranberries on a garnish stick.
- Add all of the margarita ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well, 10-12 seconds. Strain into the prepared glass and garnish with sugared cranberries. Cheers!
Notes
- Opt for high-quality silver tequila and fresh ingredients like freshly squeezed lime juice. Quality ingredients elevate the overall taste of the cocktail.
- For a perfect sugar rim, dip the rim in agave syrup or water, and then the sugar. Alternatively, you can rim the edge with a lime slice for an added sour element to complement the sweetness.
Nutrition
Any nutrition calculations are only estimates using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
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