Cinnamon Grapefruit Paloma

There are nights when you want something bright with a bit of warmth tucked inside. The Cinnamon Grapefruit Paloma originated from one of those quiet moments at home when I craved a citrus cocktail that still felt appropriate for cooler weather. The mix of grapefruit, orange, and cinnamon hit that sweet spot. It tasted familiar but still fresh.

I’ve made this drink for slow Saturday brunches and holiday get-togethers, and it never lasts long. It pours fast, looks pretty, and feels easy to sip. The cinnamon simple syrup adds a cozy twist that makes it perfect for fall gatherings or any relaxed night when you want something comforting.

If you love easy spritz-style recipe drinks but want something with more character, the Cinnamon Grapefruit Paloma is a perfect fit. It’s refreshing without feeling too light, and the cinnamon pulls everything together in a way that feels a little special.

Why You’ll Love This

This Cinnamon Grapefruit Paloma boasts a warm, citrusy flavor that perfectly suits fall and winter without feeling heavy. It’s simple to shake up and feels like something you’d order at a nice bar, even though the steps are beginner-friendly.

• Bright citrus flavor with a subtle cinnamon note
• Easy ingredients you can find any time of year
• Looks great in photos, which helps when you’re hosting
• Pairs well with brunch or a relaxed holiday dinner
• Takes only a few minutes to build
• Refreshing but still cozy

Once you try it, you might make the Cinnamon Grapefruit Paloma for quiet evenings or as your go-to drink when friends stop by.

Ingredients

This recipe is built on tequila and juicy citrus, with a touch of cinnamon syrup to add comfort and depth. The mix leans fresh and clean, with just enough warmth to carry it through the colder months.

• 2 oz tequila
• 1/2 oz Grand Marnier
• 3 oz grapefruit juice
• 2 oz orange juice
• 1 1/2 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• club soda to taste
• grapefruit wedge, for rimming and garnish
• cinnamon salty sugar for rimming

Each ingredient earns its place. Tequila provides a smooth base. Grand Marnier adds soft orange sweetness. The grapefruit and orange juice bring tart and bright flavors. Cinnamon syrup adds warmth to balance the citrus. Club soda lightens the drink, keeping it crisp. Fresh grapefruit wedges always look nice on the glass.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Good tequila makes this drink smoother and more balanced, but you don’t need a pricey bottle. A mid-range brand works well and blends nicely with the citrus and cinnamon. Grand Marnier adds a richer orange note, although there are solid alternatives if needed.

• Espolòn Blanco has a clean flavor that mixes well with citrus.
• Teremana Blanco offers a soft, vanilla note that pairs well with cinnamon.
• Milagro Silver is bright and crisp, an excellent match for grapefruit.
• Cointreau can be used as a substitute for Grand Marnier if you prefer a lighter orange flavor.
• Triple Sec works in a pinch, though it will taste sweeter.
• If you want less sweetness, reduce the cinnamon syrup by half an ounce.

These choices keep the Cinnamon Grapefruit Paloma balanced without overpowering the citrus.

Equipment and Glassware

You only need simple tools. A shaker, a citrus juicer if you’re using fresh fruit, and a sturdy glass. A highball glass works best because the club soda needs room to rise.

• Cocktail Shaker
• Strainer
• Rocks Glass
• Jigger

At home, crushed ice helps the drink stay colder longer and gives it a smoother sip.

How to Make It

This drink comes together fast, which helps when you’re mixing for more than one person. Prep your glass first, then shake everything with ice to keep the citrus chilled.

1. Moisten the rim of your glass with a grapefruit wedge.
2. Rim the glass with cinnamon-salty sugar.
3. Fill the glass with crushed ice.
4. Add a few cubes to a shaker.
5. Pour in tequila, Grand Marnier, grapefruit juice, orange juice, and cinnamon syrup.
6. Shake for about 20 seconds.
7. Strain into your prepared glass.
8. Top with club soda.
9. Stir gently.
10. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.

A slight twist of extra grapefruit zest on top adds more aroma if you want a bolder citrus note.

Pro Tips

A few minor details help this drink shine. None of them takes extra effort, and each one makes the flavor a little brighter or more balanced.

• Use fresh grapefruit juice for the best taste.
• Chill your glass for a cleaner finish.
• Make the cinnamon syrup ahead so it’s cooled.
• Shake a touch longer if you want more dilution.
• Try ruby red grapefruit for a sweeter version.
• Add more club soda for a lighter, more refreshing drink.
• Use clear ice cubes in the shaker so it doesn’t water down too fast.
• Taste before topping with soda so you can adjust the sweetness.

Feel free to experiment with the sweetness and bubbles to find your favorite balance while keeping the spirit of the Cinnamon Grapefruit Paloma intact.

Variations

There are numerous ways to adjust this Paloma while keeping the citrus-forward style. A quick swap or flavor change can make it fit a new season or taste.

• Make a non-alcoholic version with zero-proof tequila and orange syrup.
• Add a splash of pomegranate juice for a holiday color.
• Swap half the grapefruit juice for blood orange in winter.
• Add a small pinch of chili powder to the rim for a bit of heat.
• Use vanilla syrup instead of cinnamon for a softer take.

These small shifts help you change the drink without rebuilding the whole Cinnamon Grapefruit Paloma.

When to Serve and Pairings

This Paloma is perfect for brunch, slow afternoons with friends, or holiday parties. It’s refreshing enough for daytime but still has the comfort you want in cooler months.

• Light tacos or grilled shrimp
• Citrus salads
• Spiced nuts
• Cranberry appetizers
• Simple cheese boards

You can serve this alone, but it fits nicely beside other citrus cocktails, too.

Storage and Serving Notes

You can batch the shaken ingredients for several drinks. Leave out the club soda until serving so it stays bubbly. Store the mix in the fridge for up to twenty-four hours. Shake with ice right before pouring and add soda last.

FAQs

Here are quick answers to common questions.

Can I make this less sweet?
Reduce the cinnamon syrup by 1/2 ounce, or add more club soda.

Can I use reposado tequila?
Yes. It will taste a little warmer and smoother, which works well with cinnamon.

Does bottled grapefruit juice work?
It does, but fresh juice gives a brighter flavor and better color.

Can I skip the rim?
Yes. The drink still tastes great without it, though the rim adds a nice touch.

Is there a spicy version?
Add chili powder or Tajin to the cinnamon-salty sugar rim.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy the blend of citrus and cozy spice in the Cinnamon Grapefruit Paloma, there are plenty of drinks that share a similar mood. They’re simple to mix at home and fun to share with others.

• Sparkling Blood Orange Margarita: bright and bubbly with a deeper citrus note.
• Frozen Peach Margarita: smooth and icy with a soft peach flavor.
• Spiced Apple Margarita: a warm apple twist that fits fall gatherings.
• Maple Paloma: light citrus blend with a mellow maple touch.
• Peach Tequila Sunrise Punch: great option for groups featuring a sweet citrus finish.