Apple Cider Margarita 🍎🍹🍂 Crisp, Tart, and Spiced With a Seasonal Twist on the Classic

This fall-inspired margarita swaps orange liqueur for fresh apple cider, bringing sweet-tart apple flavor to the tequila base.

A cinnamon-sugar rim and a hint of spice make it festive enough for autumn parties yet refreshing enough to sip year-round.

Ingredients (Makes 2 cocktails)

For the cocktail

• 4 oz silver tequila
• 4 oz chilled apple cider (fresh if possible)
• 2 oz triple sec or Cointreau
• 2 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar (optional, for sweetness)
• Ice cubes

For the garnish (optional)

• Cinnamon-sugar mix (for rimming the glass)
• Apple slices
• Lime wedges
• Cinnamon sticks

Step 1: Prepare the glasses

Mix cinnamon and sugar on a small plate. Moisten the rim of each glass with a lime wedge, then dip into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Step 2: Mix the margarita

In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, apple cider, triple sec, lime juice, and maple syrup (if using). Add ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until chilled.

Step 3: Serve

Strain into the prepared glasses over fresh ice. Garnish with apple slices, a cinnamon stick, or a lime wedge.

Flavor Variations

• Swap silver tequila for reposado for a smoother, oakier flavor
• Add a dash of ground cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the shaker for extra warmth
• Replace triple sec with apple brandy for a deeper apple profile
• Top with a splash of sparkling water for a lighter, bubbly version

Pro Tips

• Fresh lime juice is key for balancing sweetness from the cider
• If your apple cider is sweet, taste before adding extra sweetener
• For a party, make a big batch in a pitcher and keep it chilled, shaking individual servings with ice before pouring

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Margarita is crisp, tangy, and full of fall charm. It’s a crowd-pleasing seasonal twist on a classic cocktail that works for both casual nights and festive gatherings.

Shake it. Sip it. Fall in love with this seasonal spin. 🍎🍹🍂

🍎 Apple Cider Recipes

Explore All Apple Cider Recipes → From cozy hot drinks to refreshing cocktails, these recipes highlight the crisp, sweet flavor of apple cider.

• 🥂 Apple Cider Mimosa – Bubbly brunch cocktail with a fall twist.
• 🍏 Classic Homemade Apple Cider – Fresh, spiced cider made from scratch.
• 🍺 Classic Hard Apple Cider – Naturally fermented for a crisp, boozy kick.
• 🍹 Apple Cider Cocktail – A simple, refreshing cider-based drink.
• 🍸 Apple Cider Margarita – A fall twist on the classic margarita.
• 🍷 Apple Cider Sangria – Fruity, spiced sangria perfect for parties.
• 🥂 Apple Cider Punch – Crowd-pleasing drink with a festive touch.
• 🔥 Hot Apple Cider – Warming, spiced comfort in a mug.
• 🥘 Crockpot Apple Cider – Slow-cooked cider for rich, deep flavor.
• 🍂 Mulled Apple Cider – Simmered with spices for a holiday favorite.