The Cherry Pie Margarita is rich, fruity, and just the right mix of sweet and tart. It combines tequila with cherry juice or cherry pie filling syrup, fresh lime juice, and a splash of simple syrup or agave to round out the flavors. A touch of vanilla extract or cinnamon can be added to bring that warm, pie-like feel to the drink. Serve it over ice with a graham cracker or cinnamon sugar rim for a fun, dessert-inspired twist. Garnish with fresh cherries and a lime wheel for a playful finish that looks as good as it tastes. Inspired by fuelwithrae.
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Tasting Notes
The Cherry Pie Margarita is a rich, velvety twist on the classic margarita—fruity, creamy, and slightly indulgent. Tart cherry juice brings bold, pie-like flavor with a tangy edge, while cream of coconut adds luscious sweetness and a silky texture. Lime juice brightens the mix with zesty acidity, and tequila lends a warm, earthy backbone. The result is a dessert-inspired cocktail that’s both refreshing and decadent, with a cherry garnish sealing the deal on this delightful treat-in-a-glass.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker for proper mixing and chilling, a jigger for precise measuring, and a fine strainer to ensure a smooth texture. Serve in a rocks glass to highlight the drink’s creamy color and fruit-forward appeal. A cocktail pick or tongs will help place your cherry garnish with a polished touch.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz tequila
- 1 oz cream of coconut
- 1 oz lime juice
- 2 oz tart cherry juice
- Cherry (for garnish)
Instructions
- Shake: Add tart cherry juice, tequila, cream of coconut, and lime juice to a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously until well chilled and combined.
- Strain: Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish: Top with a cherry for a simple, sweet finish.
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality tart cherry juice for the best flavor—100% juice with no added sugar is ideal.
- Shake hard to fully integrate the cream of coconut, especially if it’s thick.
- For extra flair, rim the glass with crushed graham crackers or cinnamon sugar for a true cherry pie vibe.
- Add a splash of triple sec or orange liqueur for a touch of citrus complexity.
When to Serve
This Cherry Pie Margarita is an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, from relaxed summer evenings to festive holiday gatherings. Its rich, fruity character and creamy finish make it a standout option as a dessert drink, while its vibrant flavor and eye-catching presentation lend themselves perfectly to themed events, signature cocktail menus, or celebratory brunches. Whether you’re looking to impress guests with something unique or simply treat yourself to a creative twist on a classic, this drink adds a playful yet refined touch to any celebration. It’s the kind of cocktail that feels special without being overly complicated—a true crowd-pleaser.
Which Liquor Brands to Use
- Lime juice: Always freshly squeezed for a bright, balanced finish
- Tequila: Espolòn, Cazadores, or Milagro for a smooth, clean base
- Cream of coconut: Coco López or Real Gourmet for creamy consistency
- Cherry juice: R.W. Knudsen, Lakewood Organic, or Cheribundi for tart, rich flavor
Similar Cocktails
- Peach Mint Margarita
- Cherry Long Island Iced Tea
- Pineapple Lychee Margarita
- Maple Margarita
- Coconut Lavender Margarita