Paloma With Grapefruit And Cardamom Cocktail Recipe

A Paloma always feels like a refreshing twist on a margarita, but this version really goes a step further. Mixing grapefruit and cardamom brings a bright, citrusy punch with a little warm spice that makes each sip pop.

You’ll pick up how to make a cocktail that feels special, but you won’t need any fancy ingredients or tools.

I love how the tart grapefruit balances the earthy cardamom. It creates a drink that’s bold but still smooth.

You can whip this up at home without much fuss. I think it’s perfect for a chill evening or when you’ve got a couple friends over.

Once you try this Paloma with grapefruit and cardamom, you might just find yourself making it again and again.

Paloma With Grapefruit And Cardamom Cocktail Recipe

I usually make this Paloma when I’m craving something bright, crisp, and a little spiced. Grapefruit juice, lime, and cardamom add warmth to the usual tartness.

Fresh ingredients and the right balance of tequila and soda keep it super refreshing. It’s easy to sip, maybe a little too easy.

Equipment

• Highball glass or Collins glass for serving
• Cocktail shaker with a strainer
• Citrus juicer for fresh lime and grapefruit juice
• Small plate for the salt rim
• Measuring jigger or small measuring cup
• Bar spoon for stirring
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for pulp-free juice)
• Ice scoop or spoon for adding crushed ice

I like to chill the glass first so the drink stays cold longer. Shaking everything together blends the cardamom syrup nicely with the juices and tequila.

A citrus juicer helps you squeeze out every last drop—no seeds, no mess.

Ingredients

• 2 oz tequila (blanco or reposado)
• 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice or grapefruit soda like Squirt
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• ½ oz simple syrup or cardamom syrup
• 2 oz sparkling water, club soda, or lemon-lime soda
• Crushed ice
• Kosher salt for rim
• Lime wedge or grapefruit slice for garnish

Fresh grapefruit juice gives a less sweet, more grown-up flavor. Sometimes I go for sparkling water or sugar-free soda if I want it lighter.

Tweaking the syrup amount changes how sweet or spiced the drink turns out, so play around and see what you like.

Instructions

• Rub a lime wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip it into kosher salt.
• Fill the glass with crushed ice.
• Combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and cardamom syrup in a shaker.
• Toss in some ice, shake for about 10 seconds, and strain it into your prepared glass.
• Top with sparkling water or grapefruit soda.
• Stir gently with a bar spoon.
• Drop in a lime wedge or grapefruit slice for garnish.

I usually taste before adding the soda, just to check the flavor. If it’s a bit too sweet, a squeeze of lemon juice brightens things up.

Notes

I think this cocktail works best with blanco tequila for a clean, crisp flavor. Reposado gives it a little oak and spice, which actually pairs well with the cardamom.

If I’m after a stronger citrus kick, I’ll use both lime and lemon juice. For something lighter, club soda instead of sweet soda does the trick.

I keep the salt rim light so it doesn’t take over the grapefruit. Chilled glass and fresh juice really make the drink shine.

Tasting Notes

Right away, I get this bright hit of grapefruit and lime. The flavor feels crisp and clean, almost like a classic grapefruit paloma, but there’s a soft twist from the cardamom that keeps it interesting.

Honestly, it’s a refreshing cocktail—the tart citrus and gentle spice actually balance each other pretty well.

As I sip, I notice the cardamom brings a light warmth that lingers at the back of my tongue. It doesn’t overpower the fruit; instead, it smooths out the sharp edges of the grapefruit.

The result? It reminds me of a modern take on a Mexican cocktail—simple, but there’s some real depth there.

The texture feels light, and the mild fizz from the soda gives it a lift. I catch how the bubbles push up the citrus aroma, so every sip feels fresh.

If I use a salt rim, it adds a quick savory touch that really highlights the sweet-tart thing going on.

Flavor Notes:

• Primary: Grapefruit, lime, and soda
• Secondary: Cardamom spice and a hint of sweetness
• Mouthfeel: Effervescent, smooth, and lightly spiced

I’d say this drink tastes best when it’s served cold with lots of ice. The chill keeps the grapefruit bright and the spice subtle—honestly, perfect for a warm day.