The Thanksgiving Margarita is a fun twist on the classic margarita, blending the familiar tangy lime and tequila with cozy fall flavors like cranberry and a hint of spice. It’s festive and refreshing all at once, perfect for adding a splash of color and a bit of zest to your holiday gatherings.
I love making this margarita when friends drop by or when I want to mix something special that feels seasonal but not too heavy. The touch of cranberry juice gives it that beautiful rosy glow, and adding a little cinnamon or clove makes it just right for Thanksgiving without being over the top. It’s a great way to change up your usual drinks and impress everyone without much fuss.
My favorite way to serve this drink is in salt-rimmed glasses with a small sprig of rosemary or a few fresh cranberries for garnish. It feels festive and inviting, and somehow makes everyone get into the holiday spirit a little faster. Plus, I find the balance of tart, sweet, and spiced flavors keeps everyone coming back for one more sip.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tequila Blanco: This is the classic choice for margaritas because of its smooth and clean taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, try reposado tequila, which adds a slight oakiness.
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider brings a fall touch with natural sweetness and tartness. If cider isn’t available, unsweetened apple juice works fine, though cider adds more depth.
Maple Syrup: This adds warm, rich sweetness perfect for fall drinks. Honey or agave syrup are good alternatives if you don’t have maple syrup on hand.
Orange Liqueur: Cointreau or Triple Sec adds citrus and sweetness. If you want a non-alcoholic version, use an orange juice concentrate or a splash of orange extract but reduce the citrus juice slightly.
Cinnamon Sugar Rim: This gives a subtle spice and sweetness with every sip. You can swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or leave it as plain sugar if preferred.
How Do You Get the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Rim That Sticks & Tastes Great?
Rimming your glass is simple but needs a couple of tricks for success.
- First, moisten the rim with a lemon wedge or a little apple cider vinegar (which matches the drink). Make sure to coat only the edge.
- Dip the rim gently into your cinnamon sugar mixture. Don’t press too hard or it will clump.
- Let the glass rest for a minute to let the rim set before pouring in your margarita.
- For easy cleanup, do this step over a plate or shallow bowl to catch stray sugar.
This touch adds flavor and looks festive, making each sip a little more special!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cocktail shaker – I use it to mix everything thoroughly and chill the drink quickly.
- Rimming plate or shallow dish – perfect for coating the glass rim with cinnamon sugar evenly.
- Juicer or citrus press – helps you squeeze fresh lemon juice easily and get the most juice.
- Strainer – makes pouring the margarita smooth without ice chunks or pulp.
- Glass (like a rocks glass or lowball) – a sturdy glass that showcases the festive look of the drink.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Tequila: Use flavored tequila like honey or cinnamon for an extra twist.
- Fruit Boost: Muddle fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds in the shaker before adding liquids for extra color and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the cocktail for a warm spice note.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace tequila with sparkling water or a commercial non-alcoholic margarita mix for a refreshing mocktail.
Thanksgiving Margarita Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz tequila blanco
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz apple cider
- ½ oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- ½ oz maple syrup
- Ice cubes
- Cinnamon sugar for rimming the glass (mix 1 tbsp sugar with ½ tsp ground cinnamon)
- Thin apple slices for garnish
- Fresh sage or rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Cinnamon sticks for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes from start to finish. Preparing and rimming the glass is quick, and shaking the drink only takes a moment. It’s fast to mix up, making it ideal for serving guests or enjoying right away.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rim the Glass:
Start by moistening the rim of your glass with a fresh lemon wedge. Then dip the rim into the cinnamon sugar mixture so it sticks evenly around the edge. Set the glass aside for now.
2. Mix the Drink:
In a cocktail shaker, pour in the tequila blanco, fresh lemon juice, apple cider, orange liqueur, and maple syrup. Add plenty of ice to the shaker, then close it and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
3. Serve:
Add ice cubes to your prepared glass. Strain the cocktail mixture into the glass over the ice.
4. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish by garnishing with thin slices of apple and a sprig of fresh sage or rosemary. For an extra festive touch, add a cinnamon stick on the side for stirring and aroma. Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy vibes!
Can I Use Frozen Apple Cider for This Margarita?
Yes, you can use frozen apple cider, but make sure to thaw it completely before mixing. Thaw in the fridge overnight or place the sealed container in cold water for quicker thawing. Shake or stir well before using.
What Can I Substitute for Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave nectar work great as natural sweeteners. Use the same amount, but adjust to taste if you prefer it sweeter or less sweet.
How Should I Store Leftover Margarita Mix?
Mix the margarita ingredients (excluding ice) and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir well before serving, and add fresh ice when ready to pour.
Can I Make This Drink Non-Alcoholic?
Absolutely! Replace tequila and orange liqueur with sparkling water or a citrus-flavored soda, and keep the apple cider, lemon juice, and maple syrup for a festive mocktail version.