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Discover how to make the perfect Apple Cider Margarita with tequila, fresh citrus juices, and apple cider. This fall-inspired cocktail is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and smooth—perfect for any occasion.

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This apple cider margarita is the most delicious fresh seasonal twist on a classic cocktail that blends the crisp taste of apples and the tartness of the fresh squeezed juices with the zing of tequila. While I like to usher in fall with this cocktail as it combines the flavors of autumn with the lively kick of a margarita, it is often my go to well into March if I can still find apple cider. By combining fresh squeezed citrus juices and some organic simple syrup you have the best combination for a refreshing, festive cocktail for your next gathering or to enjoy on a cozy night in.

Why Apple Cider in Cocktails

• Seasonal Popularity: Apple cider is synonymous with fall as that is when harvest season is.
• Flavor Profile: Apple cider is sweet and when combined with the tart of fresh citrus these flavors nicely complement the smoothness of the Añejo tequila base making it a wonderfully balanced cocktail.
• Versatility: Apple cider can be used in a variety of drinks, from mocktails to cocktails.

For a simple, but delicious mocktail, be sure to try my SPARKLING APPLE CIDER

Ingredients for a Fresh Apple Cider Margarita

• Fresh Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider is key to the margarita’s vibrant flavor. Make sure to get an organic unfiltered option with the only ingredient being organic apples.
• Tequila: Choose a good quality tequila (I like anejo but, blanco or reposado will work great) for the best results.
• Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice: Buy limes and squeeze them yourself, the pre squeezed lime juice in the jar is not the same. The bright acidity is needed to balance the sweetness of the cider.
• Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice: If you are making a few of these at a time, this is where you can buy a good organic, not from concentrate, pre squeezed orange juice to save a little money and time. However, fresh squeezed is always best.
• Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice: Just like the limes, buy the lemons, squeeze them yourself. Use this JUICER to do it in bulk.
• Simple Syrup: For adjusting sweetness to taste. Simple syrup is called simple for a reason, use a 1 to 1 ratio of sugar (I use organic cane sugar) and water. Heat until the sugar is dissolved. This can be done in a microwave or on the stove.
• Garnishes: Apple slices, limes, cinnamon sticks, and a salted or spiced rim.

Step-by-Step Recipe for a Fresh Apple Cider Margarita

• Instructions:
  1. Prepare the Glass: Rim the glass with salt (or cinnamon and sugar for a sweeter edge).
  2. Mixing the Drink: Shake together the apple cider, tequila, lime juice, lemon juice, orange juice, and simple syrup.
  3. Serving: Strain into an ice-filled glass (or martini glass for a fun twist), garnish with a slice of lime, or apple and a cinnamon stick.
• Optional Variations:
  • Add a splash of sparkling water for some fizz.
  • Use spiced tequila or apple cider for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Serve in a martini glass or another fun glass to elevate the experience.

Tips for the Best Apple Cider Margarita

• Quality Ingredients: To ensure this is the freshest margarita (and not a sugar filled hangover) it it important to have fresh, high-quality cider and tequila along with fresh squeezed juices when possible. Using the best ingredients elevates the flavors and won’t leave you feeling terrible drinking unneeded added sugars.
• Balancing Flavors: The flavors in this margarita balance well, but feel free to adjust the sweetness and tartness based on your personal preference.
• Chill Your Ingredients: For the perfect refreshing drink, chill your cider, juices, simple sryup and tequila beforehand. Doing this will make it so the ice will not melt as much when in the shaker, watering down the margarita.
• Presentation: Go as fancy or as plain as you want on this. Have fun and garnish creatively to impress guests (e.g., lime slices, dehydrated apple slices, cinnamon sticks, cinnamon sugar rim, etc.).

Where to Serve Your Fresh Apple Cider Margarita

• Fall and Holiday Parties: This cocktail is perfect for any gathering! Serve it at Thanksgiving, Halloween, Christmas or New Years & more.
• Cozy Nights In: Ideal for a comforting drink on a chilly evening.
• Outdoor Events: Serve it at a bonfire, tailgate, or fall picnic.
• Pairing Ideas: Taco night, with roasted nuts, cheese platters, or a yummy apple crisp. This margarita really can go with anything.

If you try this recipe and love it, I would love it if you could come back and give it 5 stars! Tag me on instagram @my.colorado.kitchen