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Spicy Apple Margarita Recipe: A Refreshing Autumn Twist

Spicy Apple Margarita

A refreshing autumn margarita made with tequila, fresh lime, apple cider, orange liqueur, and jalapeño. A cinnamon-sugar rim and fresh fruit garnish make this cocktail festive for fall gatherings.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cocktail
  • 2 ounces Blanco or reposado tequila
  • 1 ounce Apple cider or unfiltered apple juice
  • 1 ounce Fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 ounce Orange liqueur, such as Cointreau or triple sec
  • 2–3 slices, plus 1 for garnish Thin jalapeño slices
  • As needed Ice
  • As needed for garnish Apple slice or lime wedge
Rim
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
  • Small pinch Kosher salt
  • 1 to moisten the glass rim Lime wedge

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and small pinch of kosher salt on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass, then dip the moistened rim into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  2. Add the tequila, apple cider, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, jalapeño slices, and ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds.
  3. Strain the margarita into the prepared rocks glass over fresh ice. Double-strain if you prefer to remove jalapeño seeds and pulp.
  4. Garnish with an apple slice, lime wedge, and optional jalapeño slice. Serve immediately while the drink is cold and the rim is fragrant.

Notes

For stronger but more evenly distributed heat, lightly muddle the jalapeño in the shaker or let the slices sit in the tequila for 10–15 minutes before mixing. Remove the slices before shaking if the flavor becomes too hot. Use chilled apple cider and fresh lime juice for the best balance.