Fresh Citrus Margarita (No Triple Sec!) – Homemade with Whole Ingredients

I love a good margarita—but I don’t love the sugar crash and processed ingredients that usually come with it. That’s why I decided to create my own.

This fresh citrus margarita is made completely from scratch with real, whole ingredients. It’s bursting with bright, zesty flavor from fresh-squeezed lime, lemon, and orange juice, naturally sweetened with simple syrup, and finished off with smooth tequila—no Triple Sec, no mixes, no regrets. 🍋🍊🍹

I’ve shared this recipe with friends over the years, and it’s always a hit—they still talk about it! And now, I’m so excited to finally share it with you.

Cheers to clean, delicious cocktails made with real ingredients. I hope you love it as much as we do!

1. Make the Simple Syrup

Simple syrup is easy to make and adds a clean, natural sweetness to your margarita.

• Combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan or a glass jar if you would rather do this in the microwave.
• Heat the saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved or place the jar in the microwave for 2 minutes.
• Remove from heat and let cool. Store in the fridge in a sealed jar for up to 2 weeks. I love these jars and pour lids.

2. Juice Your Citrus

For the best flavor, always use fresh-squeezed juice.

• Orange juice: About 1 medium orange yields 2 oz of juice.
• Lime juice: You’ll need about 2–3 limes for 2 oz.
• Lemon juice: 1 medium lemon should yield 1 oz.
  Tips: Roll citrus fruits on the counter with gentle pressure before cutting—this helps release more juice. Bulk juicing your citrus ahead of time is a game changer. I use this juicer to make it quick and easy! Store the juices in these jars and pour lids.

3. Prepare Your Glass

• Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass.
• Dip the rim into a small plate of coarse salt (or sugar, if preferred).
• Fill the glass with fresh ice and set aside.

4. Shake the Margarita

• In a cocktail shaker, combine:
  • 3 oz tequila
  • 2 oz simple syrup
  • 2 oz orange juice
  • 2 oz lime juice
  • 1 oz lemon juice
• Add a handful of ice.
• Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds, until well chilled.

5. Strain and Serve

• Strain the margarita into your prepared glass.
• Garnish with a lime wheel, orange slice, or a sprig of mint if desired.
• Enjoy immediately!