Cinnamon Tequila Sour Cocktail Recipe

I’m always up for experimenting with classic cocktails, and honestly, the Cinnamon Tequila Sour has become one of my top picks for fall. There’s just something about the cozy kick of cinnamon with that bright tequila zing—it’s kind of perfect for chilly evenings.

Looking for a killer fall cocktail? This recipe takes the classic tequila sour and gives it a super seasonal, playful spin.

Once the weather cools down, I start craving tequila drinks that aren’t too fussy but still feel bold. The mellow heat from cinnamon syrup and the sharp tang of lemon juice just work together, no overthinking required.

It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but still fancy enough to impress a friend if you’re hosting.

Cinnamon Tequila Sour Cocktail Recipe

Honestly, cinnamon just brings a whole new vibe to a tequila sour. Whenever I make this, I try to use fresh stuff and the right tools—it’s worth the extra minute for that creamy foam.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker: You’ll want this for mixing everything up.
• Jigger or measuring spoons: Helps keep the amounts on point.
• Fine mesh strainer: Catches any ice shards or pulp—totally worth using.
• Small plate and spoon: For rimming the glass with cinnamon or sugar if you’re feeling a little extra.
• Old fashioned glass or coupe glass: I usually go with an old fashioned glass, but use what you like.
• Citrus juicer: Makes squeezing lemons way less annoying.
• Bar spoon: Handy for a quick stir if you need it.
• Small whisk or handheld frother (optional): If you’re really into that thick foam, this helps.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila (I usually grab a decent blanco or sometimes a reposado)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice (seriously, don’t use bottled)
• 3/4 oz simple syrup (or maple syrup if I want something different)
• 1/2 oz orange liqueur (triple sec or Cointreau—whatever’s on hand)
• 1/4–1/2 tsp ground cinnamon or 1 oz homemade cinnamon syrup
• 1 egg white or 1 oz aquafaba (for that creamy head, totally optional)
• Ice cubes (just enough to fill the shaker)
• Cinnamon stick (garnish, if you’re into it)
• Lemon or orange slice (garnish, also optional)

Instructions

• Chill your glass by filling it up with ice water while you work on the drink.
• Add tequila, lemon juice, syrup, orange liqueur, and cinnamon to your shaker.
• Toss in the egg white or aquafaba if you want that creamy texture.
• Dry shake (no ice yet) for about 15 seconds—this is what builds the foam.
• Add ice to the shaker and shake again, maybe 20 seconds, just to get it cold.
• Dump the ice water from your glass and strain the cocktail in.
• Garnish how you like—a dash of cinnamon, cinnamon stick, or a citrus slice all look great.

Notes

If I’m making it vegan, I just use aquafaba instead of egg white and it foams up nicely. Ground cinnamon gives a punchier flavor if you shake it right in, but cinnamon syrup is smoother and blends better.

Sometimes I’ll swap in maple syrup for a deeper flavor—honestly, it’s hard to go wrong. Always use fresh lemon juice; it really makes a difference.

If it’s too sweet or too tart, I just tweak the syrup or lemon juice a bit until it tastes right. And a cinnamon stick as garnish? Smells amazing with every sip.

Tasting Notes

When I first try this Cinnamon Tequila Sour, the balance between the cinnamon spice and the smooth tequila jumps out at me. The cinnamon’s there, but it doesn’t hit you over the head—just a gentle warmth that cozies up to the citrus.

The lemon juice brings this fresh tartness. I’d say it really helps cut through the syrup’s sweetness and the tequila’s bold kick.

Those sour notes? They’re definitely noticeable, but they don’t bulldoze the rest of the flavors.

The finish is smooth, and there’s this subtle hint of cinnamon that lingers on my tongue. Every now and then, I even catch a little vanilla from the tequila, which honestly just makes everything feel a bit more comforting.

Here’s what stands out to me:

• Spice: That soft, cinnamon warmth
• Citrus: Bright, fresh lemon
• Sweetness: Subtle—not too much
• Mouthfeel: Creamy and light, especially if I go for the egg white

The aroma is really inviting. As soon as I bring the glass up, I get a whiff of cinnamon and citrus.

The color? Kind of a golden yellow. It just looks cheerful and tidy in the glass.

This cocktail’s got a friendly vibe. That mix of tart, sweet, and spicy flavors makes it genuinely hard not to go back for another sip.