The Ube Margarita is a playful and eye-catching twist on the classic margarita, adding the rich, nutty sweetness of ube to the mix. Its striking purple color instantly stands out, making it as fun to look at as it is to drink. Tequila provides a bold base, while fresh lime juice adds a bright, tangy contrast that keeps the flavors balanced. The ube’s natural creaminess and gentle sweetness soften the tartness, creating a smooth and satisfying sip. Perfect for happy hour, special gatherings, or whenever you want to serve something unique, this margarita offers both flavor and flair in every glass.
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Tasting Notes
The Ube Margarita blends the earthy sweetness of ube with the bold, bright character of a classic margarita. The tequila brings a smooth base with light peppery notes, while the orange liqueur adds citrus and depth. Ube syrup gives the drink a subtle richness and mild vanilla flavor, along with that signature purple hue. Lime juice sharpens it all with a tart finish. The result is a well-balanced cocktail that’s sweet, tangy, and just a little unexpected. The lime slice garnish adds a fresh scent to every sip and ties the whole drink together.
Equipment and Glassware
You won’t need much for this one. Grab a cocktail shaker, strainer, and jigger for measuring. A cutting board and knife will help you prep the lime garnish. Use a rocks glass or a short tumbler—something sturdy enough for ice and easy to sip from. If you like a salted rim, you can add that, but it’s not required. Just make sure your shaker seals tight, since you’ll be giving this drink a good shake to blend the ube syrup fully with the citrus and spirits.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz tequila
- 0.5 oz orange liqueur
- 1 oz ube syrup
- 1 oz lime juice
- Garnish: lemon wheel
Instructions
- Fill your serving glass with ice and set aside.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, orange liqueur, ube syrup, and lime juice.
- Add a handful of ice to the shaker and shake until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime slice.
Pro Tips
- Use silver or blanco tequila to let the ube flavor shine.
- Adjust the amount of sour mix to match your preferred tartness.
- Shake thoroughly to blend the thick ube syrup evenly.
- Pre-chill your serving glass for better temperature control.
- Use a fine mesh strainer for a smoother finish.
- Add a pinch of salt to the shaker if you like a salted rim without the mess.
- Float the lemon wheel on top for a cleaner look and stronger citrus aroma.
When to Serve
The Ube Margarita is perfect for festive occasions, summer evenings, or themed parties where color and creativity are part of the fun. It works well for brunch, happy hour, or casual celebrations where something different is welcome. With its tropical profile and vibrant presentation, it’s also a great choice for Filipino-inspired menus, outdoor events, or cocktail nights that feature signature drinks. Serve it when you want something refreshing, slightly creamy, and full of character ideal for making an impression without being too heavy.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Tequila:
- Espolòn Blanco
- Olmeca Altos Plata
- Cazadores Blanco
Orange Liqueur:
- Cointreau
- Combier
- Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
Ube Syrup:
- Liquid Alchemist
- Monin Ube Syrup
- Homemade (using ube halaya blended with simple syrup)
Similar Cocktails
- Rhubarb Margarita
- Pineapple Tequila Sangria
- Moscato Margarita
- Watermelon Grapefruit Margarita
- Hibiscus Pineapple Margarita
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz tequila
- 0.5 oz orange liqueur
- 1 oz ube syrup
- 1 oz lime juice
- Garnish: lemon wheel
Instructions
- Fill your serving glass with ice and set aside.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, orange liqueur, ube syrup, and lime juice.
- Add a handful of ice to the shaker and shake until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime slice.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use silver or blanco tequila for a cleaner flavor that lets the ube shine.
- For a smoother finish, double strain to remove pulp or ice shards.
- Ube syrup varies taste and adjust as needed depending on sweetness and texture.
- Want a salt rim? Lightly rub the lime around the rim before dipping in salt or sugar.