Cranberry Margarita with Jalapeño Cocktail
A bold and festive margarita—tart cranberry, zesty lime, tequila, and a kick of jalapeño for a sweet, spicy, and colorful cocktail that’s perfect for parties and holiday gatherings.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Muddler
- Rocks glass
- Knife and cutting board
- Ice cubes
- Citrus juicer
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila blanco
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz lime juice freshly squeezed
- 0.5 oz orange liqueur such as Cointreau or Triple Sec
- 0.5 oz simple syrup or agave nectar
- 2-4 slices fresh jalapeño remove seeds for less heat
- ice cubes
- lime wedge for garnish
- fresh cranberries for garnish, optional
- salt or sugar for rimming glass, optional
Instructions
- Rim a rocks glass with salt or sugar if desired. Add jalapeño slices to shaker and muddle gently.
- Add tequila, cranberry juice, lime juice, orange liqueur, and simple syrup to shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously until well-chilled, about 10–15 seconds.
- Strain into prepared glass filled with ice. Garnish with lime wedge and cranberries.
Notes
Adjust jalapeño for heat—more slices, more kick! Use unsweetened cranberry juice for tartness or cranberry cocktail for a sweeter sip. Try agave nectar for a smoother sweetness.