Autumnal Apple Cider Margarita (Print Version)

Enjoy a vibrant blend of apple cider, tequila, lime, and spice—perfect for autumn gatherings and festive moments.

# Components:

→ Cocktail

01 - 4 oz tequila (blanco or reposado)
02 - 2 oz triple sec or Cointreau
03 - 6 oz fresh apple cider
04 - 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
05 - 0.5 oz agave syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
06 - Ice cubes

→ Garnish & Rim

07 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
09 - 2 lime wedges
10 - Thin apple slices (for garnish)
11 - Cinnamon sticks (optional, for garnish)

# Directions:

01 - Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of each glass and dip the rim into the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
02 - Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in tequila, triple sec, apple cider, lime juice, and agave syrup. Shake vigorously for approximately 15 seconds to chill and blend.
03 - Fill each prepared glass with fresh ice. Strain the mixed cocktail evenly between the glasses.
04 - Garnish each glass with thin apple slices and, if desired, a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses easily available apple cider and limes
  • Ready in just ten minutes no cooking required
  • Subtly spiced with cinnamon and sugar rim for a seasonal twist
  • Versatile and works as an alcohol free mocktail
02 -
  • Free from gluten and dairy
  • Easy to customize for guests who do not drink alcohol
  • Works best with fresh cider do not use shelf stable or clarified apple juice
03 -
  • Run the lime wedge around the rim twice for better sugar adherence
  • Use big clear ice cubes to slow melting and keep the drink cold longer
  • If serving a crowd prepare a batch base five times the recipe without ice or lime juice then shake to order with fresh lime and ice for every guest
  • If you plan to rim glasses ahead of time store them in the fridge to keep the cinnamon sugar dry and aromatic