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Perfect Spiced Apple Cider Margarita with Cinnamon Sugar Rim

spiced apple cider margarita - featured image

A perfectly balanced fall cocktail combining tart apple cider, warm spices, and silver tequila with a crunchy cinnamon sugar rim. Ready in under 10 minutes, this crowd-pleasing margarita captures the essence of autumn in every sip.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz silver tequila
  • 3 oz fresh apple cider (unfiltered preferred)
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • ¾ oz orange liqueur (Cointreau or triple sec)
  • ½ oz simple syrup
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Ice (large cubes preferred)
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for rim)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for rim)
  • Lime wedge (for rim)
  • Thin apple slice (for garnish, optional)
  • Cinnamon stick (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cinnamon sugar rim: On a small plate, mix 1 tablespoon granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip the rim into the cinnamon sugar mixture, rotating gently to coat. Tap off excess and set aside.
  2. Fill your cocktail shaker with about ¾ cup of ice (preferably one large ice cube).
  3. Add liquid ingredients: 2 oz silver tequila, 3 oz fresh apple cider, 1 oz fresh lime juice, ¾ oz orange liqueur, and ½ oz simple syrup.
  4. Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon and a tiny pinch of nutmeg. Give the shaker a quick swirl to incorporate spices.
  5. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels cold to the touch.
  6. Fill your prepared glass with fresh ice (for rocks glass) or strain straight into a chilled coupe. The drink should be a warm, hazy amber.
  7. Garnish with a thin apple slice and/or cinnamon stick if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, chill your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before starting. Use fresh lime juice, not bottled. The cinnamon simple syrup variation adds extra warmth. For parties, batch the liquid ingredients (minus ice) and shake individual portions when ready to serve. Apply the cinnamon sugar rim right before serving to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider margarita, fall cocktail, spiced margarita, cinnamon sugar rim, apple cider drink, autumn cocktail, tequila cocktail