Apple Cinnamon Margarita Cocktail Recipe

When the weather turns chilly, I find myself craving drinks that just taste like fall. The Apple Cinnamon Margarita really hits that spot—it’s got crisp apple flavor, a little cinnamon warmth, and honestly, it’s super easy to throw together.

I stumbled onto this recipe while trying to use up some apple cider in a way that felt more festive than just sipping it straight. Mixing apple cider, cinnamon, tequila, and lime juice sounded a little odd at first, but it totally works. If you’re after a seasonal spin on the classic margarita, this one’s worth a try.

Let’s get into what you’ll need, how to mix it up, and a few tips I’ve picked up for getting the flavor just right. You don’t need anything fancy—just a handful of ingredients and some basic tools, and you’re set.

Apple Cinnamon Margarita Cocktail Recipe

This drink brings together tart apple cider, cozy cinnamon, and a kick of lime. I’ve found that using fresh stuff and the right tools really makes a difference—otherwise, it can taste a bit flat.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Measuring spoons
• Small plate for rimming
• Rocks or margarita glass
• Ice cubes

Honestly, a shaker is a must for blending everything smoothly. I stick with a jigger so I don’t throw off the balance. Strainer’s handy too, since nobody wants random bits floating in their drink. Rocks or margarita glass? Your call, but I like how it keeps things cold. Rimming with cinnamon sugar feels a bit extra but it’s worth it, so I keep a plate nearby for that. And yeah, don’t skimp on the ice—it chills things down fast.

Ingredients

• 2 oz reposado tequila
• 1.5 oz apple cider
• 1 oz apple juice
• 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz maple syrup (or simple syrup)
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• Ice cubes
• Apple slices (for garnish)
• Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
• Cinnamon sugar (for rimming glass, optional)

I always reach for reposado tequila—there’s just something about that oaky flavor that fits. Apple cider brings the tartness, while apple juice sweetens things up. Lime juice is a must for brightness. Maple syrup is my go-to for a mellow, natural sweetness, but simple syrup works too. Cinnamon adds warmth—don’t overdo it though. For garnish, apple slices and a cinnamon stick look great and add a little aroma.

Instructions

• Prepare the glass: Rim your glass with lime juice and dip it in cinnamon sugar if you’re feeling fancy.
• Add to shaker: Combine tequila, apple cider, apple juice, lime juice, maple syrup, and cinnamon in the shaker.
• Add ice: Toss in enough ice to chill everything down.
• Shake: Shake like you mean it for about 15 seconds, until it’s nice and cold.
• Strain: Pour through a strainer into your glass over fresh ice.
• Garnish: Top with an apple slice and a cinnamon stick.

I always give it a quick taste before serving. Want it sweeter? A bit more maple syrup does the trick. If it’s too tart, a splash of apple juice helps even things out.

Notes

Fresh apple cider is best, especially in the fall, but I’ve used whatever’s on hand and it’s still good. Sometimes I swap maple syrup for honey or simple syrup, just depending on my mood. If you want it spicier, dust a little extra cinnamon on top before serving.

No cocktail shaker? Two glasses work—just pour the mix back and forth until it’s blended. For a non-alcoholic version, leave out the tequila and keep everything else.

Honestly, this drink tastes best right after you make it. The flavors just pop.

Tasting Notes

First sip—bright apple hits me, and then there’s this cozy warmth from cinnamon. The flavors just sort of hang out together, not fighting for attention, and there’s a little tartness sneaking in from the lime.

The tequila? It’s there, but honestly, it’s pretty mellow. I don’t feel like it’s trying to steal the show from the apple or cinnamon.

There’s a gentle sweetness, nothing over the top. Cinnamon lingers at the end, and it’s kind of comforting, especially as it hangs around after each sip.

Here’s what jumps out at me:

• Flavor: Fresh apple, cinnamon spice, a bit of citrus
• Aroma: Crisp apple, light cinnamon, a hint of agave
• Texture: Smooth, with a touch of tang
• Sweetness: Mild, definitely not syrupy
• Strength: Moderate—tequila just blends in

Honestly, I really dig the way it smells before I even taste it. That apple and cinnamon aroma fills the air as soon as the glass gets close.

The cocktail feels light and pretty refreshing. The spicy cinnamon and tart lime keep things from getting boring, all the way through.