Butternut Squash Margarita Pitcher

If you love fall cocktails that feel both comforting and refreshing, this Butternut Squash Margarita Pitcher is about to become your new go to. It has a creamy texture from the squash, warm spice from cinnamon, and bright citrus from lime juice. When everything blends with the smooth flavor of LALO Blanco Tequila, it turns into a drink that tastes like early autumn afternoons and relaxed holiday gatherings. The first time I made this, I remember thinking it felt like sipping fall in a glass. It is unexpected, seasonal, and somehow still light enough to enjoy with a full meal.

This Margarita Pitcher is also perfect for entertaining. You can prep the squash puree and syrup ahead of time, which makes the final assembly super simple. Just stir, chill, and pour. It works for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving celebrations, Friendsgiving dinners, or even a relaxed football Sunday. If you want a festive fall cocktail that will get people talking, this one is it.

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Why You Will Love This

What makes this Butternut Squash Margarita Pitcher so special is how it blends seasonal comfort with the classic margarita flavor everyone already loves. It feels familiar but new at the same time.

Here are a few reasons it stands out:

• Perfect for fall hosting since it is a big batch recipe that serves eight people.
• Made with LALO Blanco Tequila which ensures a clean, bright foundation that never overwhelms the squash.
• Warm flavors without being too sweet thanks to piloncillo syrup and cinnamon.
• Beautiful presentation with lime wheels and cinnamon sticks in the pitcher.
• Make ahead friendly so you can prep before guests arrive.
• A creative Thanksgiving recipe that feels seasonal without using pumpkin.

Once you mix it, you will see why it becomes a favorite. It checks every box for a fall cocktail that is both memorable and easy to make.

Ingredients

This recipe combines earthy butternut squash, rich piloncillo syrup, and the clean flavor of LALO Blanco Tequila. The combination creates a smooth fall cocktail with a warm spice finish and citrus brightness.

For the Margarita Pitcher (Serves 8):

• 16 oz LALO Blanco Tequila 2 cups
• 6 oz Piloncillo Simple Syrup 3/4 cup
• 10 oz Butternut Squash Puree 1 1/4 cups
• 4 oz lime juice fresh squeezed
• lime wheels for garnish
• cinnamon sticks for garnish
• brown sugar for rim

These ingredients work together because each one brings something essential. The tequila gives structure, the syrup adds a caramel note, and the squash puree provides body. The lime juice is important because it cuts through the richness and keeps the drink well balanced.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

While this recipe is built around LALO, you can still adjust a few supporting ingredients if needed. The tequila is the star, so keeping it as LALO Blanco Tequila is key for the clean, bright flavor profile.

Here are helpful brand suggestions and substitutions:

• LALO Blanco Tequila: The recommended and featured spirit for this recipe. Its crisp finish pairs perfectly with butternut squash.
• Other Blanco Tequilas: If you cannot find LALO for some reason, a high quality blanco can work, but the final flavor will not be as smooth or crisp.
• Piloncillo Syrup Substitute: Use brown sugar syrup or maple syrup if you cannot find piloncillo. The flavor will be slightly different but still warm and rich.
• Fresh Lime Juice Only: Bottled lime juice will not give the same brightness.
• Cinnamon Stick Garnish: Ground cinnamon can be used in a pinch, but whole sticks give aroma and visual appeal.

The flavors in this recipe work especially well with LALO. The tequila has a clean, naturally sweet character that blends smoothly with the squash and warm spices, letting everything taste balanced and bright without competing.

Equipment and Glassware

Making this Butternut Squash Margarita Pitcher does not require any specialty tools. You only need a few basic kitchen items to prepare both the puree and the final cocktail.

Good tools to have:

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Baking sheet
• Blender or food processor
• Saucepan for syrup
• Large pitcher
• Margarita or rocks glasses
• Small plate for rimming sugar

A wide rimmed margarita glass works beautifully since it highlights the brown sugar rim and bright orange color of the drink.

How to Make It

This fall cocktail comes together in three parts: preparing the butternut squash puree, making the piloncillo simple syrup, and mixing the margarita pitcher. While it sounds like a lot, each step is easy and can be made ahead.

Butternut Squash Puree

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
2. Cut the butternut squash in half, then into slices. Remove the outer rind and cut into medium sized chunks.
3. Place on a lined baking sheet and add olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Toss gently to coat.
4. Roast for 40 to 60 minutes until soft enough to pierce with a fork.
5. Let the squash cool.
6. Add squash to a blender or food processor. Add 1 1/2 to 2 cups of water and blend until smooth. Add more water in 1/4 cup increments if needed until the puree is silky.
7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.

Piloncillo Simple Syrup

1. Add all ingredients to a saucepan and bring to a light boil.
2. Reduce heat and stir as it simmers for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Strain into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

Butternut Squash Margarita (Pitcher)

1. Add LALO Blanco Tequila, piloncillo syrup, squash puree, and lime juice to a large pitcher. Stir until the puree is fully blended.
2. Add lime wheels and cinnamon sticks to the pitcher.
3. Add ice if serving right away. If not, refrigerate until chilled.
4. Rim one side of each margarita glass with lime juice, then dip in brown sugar.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the margarita over the top.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and cinnamon stick. Enjoy your Butternut Squash Margarita made with LALO Tequila.

If you are serving a crowd, you can double the recipe without issues. The flavors stay balanced even when scaled.

Pro Tips

These tips make a good batch even better. Little changes can improve smoothness, presentation, and flavor.

• Roast the squash until caramelized for deeper flavor.
• Chill all ingredients before mixing the pitcher to keep the texture smooth.
• Blend the puree very well so no fibers or chunks remain.
• Do not skip fresh lime juice because it balances the sweetness.
• Use high quality cinnamon sticks for better aroma.
• Stir again right before serving because the puree can settle.
• Taste the pitcher and adjust sweetness with a splash of syrup if needed.

Experimenting with spice levels or citrus amounts can help you customize the drink to your personal style.

Variations

Once you master the base recipe, it is fun to customize it for different gatherings or flavor preferences.

Try these variations:

• Spicy Version: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the pitcher.
• Smoky Version: Replace a small portion of the tequila with mezcal.
• Maple Squash Margarita: Use maple syrup instead of piloncillo syrup.
• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of fresh orange juice.
• Non Alcoholic Version: Use squash puree, lime juice, cinnamon syrup, and sparkling water.

These variations keep the foundational flavor while adding something new.

When to Serve and Pairings

This Butternut Squash Margarita Pitcher fits right into fall gatherings. It is great for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, holiday dinners, and cozy nights with a charcuterie board. The warm squash flavor pairs well with both savory and sweet dishes.

Here are some great food pairings:

• Roasted turkey
• Sweet potato fries
• Cinnamon rolls
• Fall cheese boards
• Grilled chicken with herbs
• Butternut squash soup

If you want to create a fall cocktail menu, pair this pitcher with drinks like a Spiced Pear Martini or a Cranberry Margarita for a complete spread.

Storage and Serving Notes

This Butternut Squash Margarita Pitcher is very hosting friendly. You can make the puree and syrup several days ahead, and even mix the full pitcher a few hours before guests arrive.

Helpful storage notes:

• Keep the puree chilled in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Store the simple syrup for up to 2 weeks.
• Mix the pitcher up to 4 hours ahead and keep chilled.
• Add ice only when ready to serve to avoid dilution.

Leftover margaritas store well for 24 hours in the fridge as long as the ice is removed.

FAQs

Can I use canned butternut squash puree?
Yes, although fresh roasted squash gives much better flavor and texture.

Is LALO Tequila necessary for this recipe?
For the best flavor, yes. The clean profile of LALO Blanco Tequila balances the squash beautifully. Other tequilas may taste sharper or heavier.

Can I make this without sugar?
You can reduce the syrup, but the drink needs some sweetness to balance the squash.

Can I prepare this the day before?
Yes. Mix everything except the garnish and ice. Chill until ready to serve.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default, but you can add jalapeño for a kick.

More Cocktails to Try

If you love this fall themed margarita, you might enjoy these cocktails as well:

• Apple Cider Margarita: A crisp and cozy apple twist on a classic.
• Maple Old Fashioned: Warm, rich, and great for cool nights.
• Spiced Pear Martini: Light, fragrant, and perfect for fall dinners.
• Cranberry Spritz: Tart, refreshing, and great for holidays.
• Pumpkin Spice White Russian: A creamy dessert cocktail with fall flavors.