Cinnamon Apple Cider Margarita Cocktail Recipe

I always get a kick out of putting a seasonal spin on classic cocktails. When autumn rolls in and the air feels crisp, I ditch the usual lime-heavy margarita for something a bit cozier.

This cinnamon apple cider margarita mixes smooth tequila with tangy apple cider and a dash of cinnamon, making it a simple, refreshing fall cocktail.

It’s honestly pretty easy to whip up, and you probably have most of the ingredients already. The cinnamon gives it a gentle warmth, and the apple cider’s natural sweetness balances out the citrus.

You can pour it over ice for a laid-back vibe, or go all out and rim the glass with cinnamon-sugar if you’re feeling a little fancy.

It’s the kind of drink that works for a quiet evening or a small get-together. The familiar flavors make it super approachable, but there’s still something special about it.

Cinnamon Apple Cider Margarita Cocktail Recipe

What I love here is how the cinnamon’s warmth plays with crisp apple cider. The tequila and citrus keep things lively, and a little garnish makes it look extra inviting.

Equipment

I don’t get too fussy with tools—just what’s needed to make things easy.

• Cocktail shaker – for mixing and chilling
• Jigger or measuring cup – so the proportions stay on point
• Citrus juicer – for fresh lime juice, seeds not included
• Small plate – for cinnamon or sugar to rim the glass
• Mixing spoon – in case you need to stir
• Strainer – to keep out ice or pulp
• Serving glass – I usually grab a short rocks glass
• Knife and cutting board – for slicing fruit

These are all I use to keep things quick and not too messy.

Ingredients

Fresh, good-quality ingredients really do make a difference.

• 2 oz apple cider
• 2 oz reposado tequila (or blanco, if you like)
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz orange liqueur (triple sec or Cointreau)
• 1 tsp maple syrup or agave syrup
• 1 pinch ground cinnamon
• Ice cubes
• Cinnamon stick – garnish
• Apple slices – garnish
• Lime wedge – for garnish and rimming
• Extra ground cinnamon or cinnamon-sugar – for rimming

I always chill the cider first so the drink stays nice and cold.

Instructions

Here’s how I usually throw it together.

• Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it in cinnamon or cinnamon-sugar.
• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add the apple cider, tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon.
• Shake for about 15 seconds, just until it’s good and cold.
• Strain into your prepared glass over fresh ice.
• Top with an apple slice and a cinnamon stick.

I like to serve it right away—nobody wants a watered-down margarita.

Notes

Reposado tequila is my go-to because it’s smooth and has a subtle oakiness that works with the apple and cinnamon. Blanco is a bit brighter and sharper, if that’s more your thing.

If you’re craving more sweetness, just add a little extra maple or agave syrup. Not in the mood for sweet? Skip the syrup.

Sometimes I’ll gently warm the cider before mixing for a cozier feel, but I let it cool to room temp first so the ice doesn’t just disappear.

Tasting Notes

The first sip? It’s smooth and crisp, honestly. That apple cider brings a gentle sweetness, which somehow just fits with the tart lime from a classic margarita.

Cinnamon comes in with a warm, lingering spice. It’s subtle, not too much, but it gives the drink this cozy, almost autumn vibe.

In this apple cinnamon margarita, the tequila’s there, but it doesn’t take over. The apple flavor stands out, and the cinnamon ties it all together without pushing things into sugary territory.

When it’s served cold, the drink is extra refreshing. That mix of spice and cider really sets it apart from your usual apple cider margarita—but it’s still got that familiar feel.

If I decide to skip the tequila and pour in more cider, it turns into a pretty solid mocktail. The flavors stay bright, and the cinnamon keeps things warm and interesting.

I really like how the flavors hit in layers:

• First: tart lime and crisp apple
• Second: smooth tequila and soft sweetness
• Last: that warm cinnamon spice, hanging around after every sip