This Cinnamon Apple Cider Margarita is a fun twist on the classic drink! With sweet apple cider and a hint of spicy cinnamon, it’s perfect for fall and cozy gatherings.
Mixing up this drink is super easy. I love serving it at parties, and everyone is always surprised by the delightful flavor combo. Cheers to sipping with friends! 🍹
Ingredients & Substitutions
Silver Tequila: This is the star of the show! If you’re looking for a smoother taste, you can use a reposado tequila instead. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with the other ingredients.
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider really enhances the flavor. If you can’t find it, you can use apple juice, but it might be a bit sweeter. Try to avoid the filtered types for more depth!
Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh is always best for the zing! If you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice works, but fresh will brighten the drink like nothing else.
Orange Liqueur: Cointreau brings a lovely orange flavor. Triple sec is a good substitute if you’re dealing with a tight budget.
Cinnamon Simple Syrup: You can make this syrup at home easily, but if you’re pressed for time, you can use store-bought cinnamon syrup or even a dash of ground cinnamon in your shaker.
How Do You Get the Perfect Rim on a Glass?
Rimming your glass with cinnamon sugar not only adds a lovely touch but gives the first sip an extra kick. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by rubbing the rim of the glass with a lime wedge to make it sticky.
- In a shallow dish, mix equal parts cinnamon and sugar. Adjust to your taste!
- Dip the rim into the cinnamon sugar mixture, turning gently to coat it evenly.
Make sure not to press too hard; you want a nice, lightly coated rim that enhances the drink.
Cinnamon Apple Cider Margarita
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 3 oz apple cider
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
- 1/2 oz cinnamon simple syrup (see instructions below)
- Ice cubes
- Cinnamon sugar (for rimming)
- Apple slices (for garnish)
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
- Fresh thyme or other herb sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and serve. If you’re making the cinnamon simple syrup, add an extra 5 minutes for cooling time. It’s a quick and delightful drink that’s perfect for fall gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar:
In a shallow dish, mix equal parts ground cinnamon and granulated sugar. This will be used to rim your glasses, adding a sweet and spicy touch to the drink.
2. Rim Your Glasses:
Take a lime wedge and run it around the rim of your serving glasses. Then, dip the rims in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat them evenly. This step enhances the flavor with every sip!
3. Make the Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
In a saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup sugar, and 2 cinnamon sticks. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Once done, let it cool, and remove the cinnamon sticks. Your syrup is now ready!
4. Mix the Margarita:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add the silver tequila, apple cider, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and cinnamon simple syrup. Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold—about 15 seconds should do it!
5. Serve the Drink:
Fill your rimmed glasses with fresh ice. Strain the margarita mixture into each glass, being careful not to spill the deliciousness!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Add an apple slice and a cinnamon stick to each glass for garnish. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprig of fresh thyme on top adds a lovely touch. Serve immediately and savor the flavors of autumn!
Can I Use Store-Bought Apple Cider?
Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works wonderfully for this recipe. Just make sure to choose a flavorful, high-quality cider for the best results!
Can This Margarita Be Made in Larger Batches?
Yes! Simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you need. Mix everything in a large pitcher and adjust the sweetness if desired, then serve over ice.
How Do I Store Leftover Cinnamon Simple Syrup?
You can store any leftover cinnamon simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just give it a shake before using it again!
What If I Don’t Have Orange Liqueur?
No problem! You can substitute it with a splash of orange juice or even leave it out entirely. Just add a bit more lime juice to maintain a balanced flavor.
