Spicy Jalapeño Margarita Cocktail Recipe

A spicy jalapeño margarita adds an exciting kick to the classic tequila cocktail. This easy recipe makes a perfectly balanced drink with just the right amount of heat.

The blend of sweet and spicy flavors makes this cocktail a top choice for summer parties and gatherings. The fresh jalapeño slices can be adjusted to match any heat preference, from mild to extra spicy.

People who enjoy this drink love the way it starts smooth and builds to a gentle warmth. The salt rim adds an extra touch that brings out the flavors of the fresh ingredients and premium tequila.

Spicy Jalapeño Margarita Cocktail Recipe

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This zesty cocktail combines fresh jalapeños, lime juice, and tequila for a spicy twist on the classic margarita. The heat level can be adjusted by changing the amount of jalapeño used.

John

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Serving Size 1

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger or measuring tool
• Citrus juicer
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Rocks glass
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Muddler

Ingredients

• 2 oz silver tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 3/4 oz triple sec
• 1/2 oz agave nectar
• 2-3 thin jalapeño slices seeds removed
• Salt and tajin for rim
• Ice cubes
• Lime wheel and jalapeño slice for garnish

Instructions

• Mix equal parts salt and tajin on a small plate. Rim a rocks glass with lime juice, then dip in the salt mixture.
• Add jalapeño slices to the shaker and muddle gently to release the oils.
• Pour in tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and agave nectar.
• Fill the shaker with ice and shake hard for 10-15 seconds.
• Double strain into the prepared rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
• Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh jalapeño slice.

Notes

The drink can be made less spicy by using fewer jalapeño slices or removing all seeds before muddling.

Fresh lime juice works best – bottled lime juice will not taste as good.

Store leftover jalapeño-infused tequila in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

The rim mixture can be stored in a sealed container for future use.

Let guests know the drink is spicy before serving.

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Tasting Notes

The Spicy Jalapeño Margarita has a bright, zesty flavor profile with the perfect mix of sweet, sour, and spicy notes.

A fresh kick of jalapeño heat starts each sip, followed by the smooth warmth of silver tequila. The spiciness ranges from mild to medium, depending on how long the peppers steep.

The fresh lime juice adds a tart citrus punch that balances the sweet agave nectar. This creates a refreshing blend that isn’t too sweet or too sour.

The salt rim provides a savory crunch that enhances both the spice and citrus elements. Each sip finishes clean with lingering warmth from the peppers.

Key flavor notes:

• Sharp jalapeño spice
• Smooth tequila
• Bright lime
• Sweet agave
• Salty finish

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Substitute

Several ingredients can replace items in the spicy jalapeño margarita recipe. These swaps maintain the drink’s flavor while adapting to different needs or preferences.

Fresh jalapeños can be swapped with:

• Serrano peppers (spicier)
• Green bell peppers (milder)
• Jalapeño simple syrup
• Canned jalapeños

For tequila, try these options:

• Mezcal for a smoky taste
• Sotol
• Make a virgin version with lime juice and club soda

Triple sec alternatives include:

• Cointreau
• Grand Marnier
• Orange juice with simple syrup

The lime juice can be replaced with:

• Lemon juice
• Key lime juice
• Bottled lime juice

Salt rim options:

• Tajin
• Chili powder
• Sugar
• No rim at all

For a non-alcoholic version, mix lime juice, orange juice, simple syrup, and muddled jalapeños. Top with sparkling water or sprite.