Apple Cider Margarita

An Apple Cider Margarita is the one fall cocktail you need to make. It is slightly sweet, crisp, and full of warming spices. With a cinnamon sugar rim, this cocktail is ideal for any autumn gathering!

about this cider margarita

An apple cider margarita is fall in a glass. This seasonal spin on the classic margarita recipe is crisp and sweet, without being cloyingly sweet. There’s a squeeze of fresh lime in there for a touch of brightness, with a touch of cinnamon for added warmth and depth.

It’s basically autumn in a glass, with a refreshing kick in a familiar format.

You can throw this cocktail together quickly, so it’s ideal for impromptu gatherings or even a chill evening at home. With our instructions, you can easily increase the servings to make it a big batch cocktail too!

What I love most about this apple cider margarita is how it bridges the gap between seasons with its fall flavors. It’s got that refreshing zing of a summer marg, but with a warm, spicy kick that screams autumn. It’s become my go-to for everything from game nights to holiday parties. Cheers!

ingredients

tequila. We like to use blanco tequila for it’s lighter flavor profile in this cocktail. However, you can also use a gold tequila, if preferred.

triple sec. This orange-flavored liqueur adds a depth of citrus flavor to the margarita.

lime juice. Freshly squeezed lime juice is best to get the best flavor in this recipe! Don’t have an limes handy? You can also use fresh lemon juice.

apple cider. Use fresh apple cider! Make sure that it is not apple juice.

this recipe’s must haves

You will need standard bar tools to make this cocktail, including a jigger for measuring, a cocktail shaker, and a cocktail strainer.

Don’t have a cocktail shaker? Use a mason jar instead!

here’s how to make a cider margarita

rim glass

Stir together the sugar and ground cinnamon for the rimming sugar. Spread the sugar on a small plate evenly. Rub the edge of your cocktail glass with a lime wedge to wet it. Roll the wet rim of the glass through the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Set aside.

shake

Combine tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and apple cider in a shaker filled halfway with ice. Shake well to chill.

strain and garnish

Fill the rimmed cocktail glass with ice. Strain the margarita into the glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve.

tips and tricks

use gold tequila. If you prefer añejo or reposado tequila, you can use those instead of blanco tequila.

experiment with adding spices. A dash of nutmeg or extra cinnamon can elevate the drink!

upgrade the orange liqueur. Take this cocktail to the next level by using grand marnier or cointreau instead of triple sec.

More tasty margarita recipes to sip on: Limeade Margaritas | Cucumber Margarita | Blueberry Margarita | Texas Margarita

what kind of cider should I use in this cocktail?

Use your favorite type of apple cider! Make sure that it is apple cider, not apple juice! We do not recommend using hard cider as it will make the cocktail way to boozy and the flavor will be off.

do I have to serve these with a cinnamon sugar rim?

You don’t have to do a cinnamon sugar rim if you prefer not to! We like the added sweetness and warmth of cinnamon that it gives every sip.

how can I make this a virgin margarita?

To make this a virgin margarita, omit the tequila and triple sec. Use 2 oz sparkling water (or still) and 1/2 ounce fresh orange juice instead.

how should I garnish this cocktail?

We like to garnish this drink with a cinnamon stick and a dehydrated lime wheel. You can also garnish with fresh apple slices and/or a sprig of fresh thyme/sprig of rosemary for a hint of green.

how do I make a big batch of cider margaritas?

To serve 8 people, you will need:

• 2 cups blanco tequila
• 1/2 cup triple sec
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 4 cups apple cider

Fill a pitcher with ice, then pour in the ingredients, stirring to combine. Serve in cinnamon sugar rimmed glasses filled with ice. Garnish with cinnamon sticks!

Note: you can make this ahead of time in a pitcher with NO ice. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add ice and stir to mix up an sediment that might have settled on the bottom just before serving.

Need some inspiration for cocktail hour? Check out my cocktail recipes page!

what to serve with this a cider margarita

These apple cider margaritas are made for a party! If you are making a big batch to serve at your next gathering, we recommend pairing it with a fall charcuterie board for the ultimate autumn grazing experience.

more of our favorite apple-themed cocktails

Homemade apple pie infused whiskey is our favorite fall project! It’s easy to make, with fresh apples and warming spices.

Use that homemade infused apple pie whiskey in an apple pie old fashioned cocktail. This is our favorite fall cocktail.

An apple whiskey sidecar cocktail is simple to make for a cocktail party or even your next autumn brunch.

This apple cider cocktail is the perfect easy cocktail to turn into a big batch drink for a party.

Sip on a fresh apple martini for a refreshing cocktail made with your favorite apples!

Finally, if you make this apple cider margarita recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

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