A fizzy and flavorful twist on a classic, the Dr Pepper Margarita blends the smooth kick of tequila with the rich, spiced sweetness of Dr Pepper. Fresh lime juice and triple sec add a bright citrusy contrast, balancing the bold flavors with a refreshing tang. Served over ice and garnished with a lime wheel, this unconventional margarita is a must-try for soda lovers looking for a fun, easy-drinking cocktail with a little extra kick. Perfect for casual gatherings, game nights, or when you’re craving something refreshingly different!
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Tasting Notes
The Dr Pepper Margarita brings a playful twist to the traditional margarita with its blend of tequila, citrus, and spiced cola. The tequila offers warmth and depth, while triple sec and lime juice add crisp acidity and a citrus backbone. Topped with Dr. Pepper, the drink gains complexity through subtle notes of cherry, vanilla, and spice. It’s slightly sweet, lightly fizzy, and has a surprisingly smooth finish. The lime wheel garnish enhances the fresh lime aroma, tying everything together in a bold yet approachable cocktail that’s both familiar and refreshingly different.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare this Dr Pepper Margarita, you’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer, and a citrus juicer for the lime. A tall glass like a highball or a classic rocks glass works well for serving, depending on your preferred pour size. Fresh ice is important for maintaining the balance between dilution and chill. If you like a salted rim, you can also keep a small dish of coarse salt and a lime wedge on hand before pouring.
Ingredients
- 1.5 ounces tequila
- ½ ounce triple sec
- ½ ounce lime juice
- Dr. Pepper to top
- Lime wheel for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, triple sec, and lime juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with Dr. Pepper cola
- Garnish with a lime wheel.
- Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor
- Chill your Dr. Pepper beforehand to keep the drink cool and carbonated
- A salted rim adds extra balance if the soda feels too sweet
- Reposado tequila brings a touch of oak and vanilla to match the soda’s spice
- Serve with pebble or cracked ice for faster chilling and smoother sipping
- Adjust the ratio of soda to suit your sweetness preference
- Add a splash of cherry juice if you want to bring out the cola’s cherry note
- Garnish with a lime wedge if you don’t have a wheel
When to Serve
This Dr Pepper Margarita works especially well for casual get-togethers, taco nights, or backyard cookouts. Its soda-forward finish makes it easy to sip, making it a good pick for game day, summer BBQs, or themed parties where tequila drinks are popular. It’s also a fun alternative to a classic rum and cola, ideal for anyone who wants something with a familiar soda base but a little more personality.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Tequila:
- Espolòn Blanco
- Olmeca Altos Plata
- Cazadores Blanco
- Lunazul Reposado
- El Jimador Reposado
Triple Sec:
- Cointreau
- Combier
- DeKuyper Triple Sec
- Bols Triple Sec
- Hiram Walker Triple Sec
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Dr Pepper Margarita, here are five similar cocktails to try:

Ingredients
- 1.5 ounces tequila
- ½ ounce triple sec
- ½ ounce lime juice
- Dr Pepper topped
- Lime wheel for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, triple sec, and lime juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with Dr. Pepper
- Garnish with a lime wheel.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use a blanco tequila for a cleaner, citrus-forward flavor, or try a reposado for a slightly deeper profile.
- For a sweeter edge, add a splash of simple syrup before shaking.
- Chill the Dr. Pepper ahead of time to maintain carbonation when pouring.
