Paul Kushner
The Coconut Lychee Margarita is a tropical twist on the traditional margarita, bringing together creamy coconut, sweet lychee, and fresh citrus for a unique and refreshing drink. The smooth texture of coconut pairs beautifully with the delicate floral sweetness of lychee, while lime juice adds brightness and balance. Tequila forms the base, giving the cocktail a classic foundation with a tropical edge. Served over ice with a salted or coconut sugar rim and garnished with lychee or lime slices, it looks as appealing as it tastes. This margarita is perfect for warm-weather gatherings, beach days, or evenings with friends.
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Tasting Notes
The Coconut Lychee Margarita has a smooth tropical flavor with a balance of sweet, tart, and floral notes. The coconut syrup brings creaminess and richness, while the lychee purée adds a light fruity touch. Lime juice gives the drink a crisp edge, and the tequila provides structure without overpowering the gentle flavors. The orange liqueur brings a soft citrus backdrop that ties everything together. The coconut sugar rim gives a sweet contrast and a little texture with each sip. It’s a refreshing drink that feels tropical but isn’t overly sweet, making it a great choice for casual sipping or relaxing evenings.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing the ingredients well, especially since this recipe includes thicker elements like coconut syrup and lychee purée. A citrus juicer or reamer will help you get the most juice out of your lime. A jigger or measuring tool ensures your ratios stay accurate. Use a small plate to prepare the coconut sugar rim. For serving, a rocks glass or a small coupe glass works best. A fine mesh strainer may help if your lychee purée has pulp. A cocktail pick can be used to add a lychee garnish for a neat presentation.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz tequila blanco
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 0.75 oz coconut syrup
- 0.5 oz lychee purée
- 0.5 oz orange liqueur
- Coconut sugar, for rimming
- Lychee, for garnish
Instructions
- Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. Dip the rim into coconut sugar to coat.
- Add tequila, lime juice, coconut syrup, lychee purée, and orange liqueur to a shaker filled with ice. Shake until well chilled.
- Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Add a lychee for garnish. Serve and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime juice for the cleanest taste.
- Chill your glass ahead of time to help the drink stay cold longer.
- If your lychee purée is thick, consider double straining for a smoother drink.
- Adjust sweetness by using less coconut syrup if desired.
- Try a salt-coconut sugar mix on the rim for more contrast.
- Use large ice cubes to reduce dilution.
- Taste your orange liqueur some are sweeter than others, and it may affect balance.
- For a blended version, mix all ingredients with crushed ice.
- Keep extra lychees in syrup on hand—they make a great garnish.
- Shake longer if using dense purée to fully combine.
When to Serve
This Coconut Lychee Margarita is ideal for summer gatherings, weekend brunch, or as a special tropical-themed cocktail night option. It pairs well with light bites, grilled seafood, or tropical fruit desserts. Because it’s refreshing but not too heavy, it works as both a pre-dinner drink or something to enjoy on a sunny afternoon. The eye-catching garnish and coconut sugar rim make it suitable for festive settings or dinner parties with a tropical theme. It’s also a fun choice for a vacation-style drink at home. The balance of sweet and tart makes it versatile enough to please a wide range of guests.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Tequila Blanco
- Espolòn
- Olmeca Altos
- Cazadores
- El Jimador
- Orange Liqueur
- Cointreau
- Grand Marnier (for a richer note)
- Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
- Coconut Syrup
- Monin Coconut Syrup
- Torani Coconut Syrup
- Liber & Co. Coconut Syrup
- Lychee Purée
- Perfect Purée of Napa Valley Lychee
- Monin Lychee Purée
- Homemade purée from canned lychees
Similar Cocktails
- Calamansi Margarita
- Pineapple Tequila Sangria
- Rhubarb Margarita
- Frozen Cantaloupe Melon Margarita
- Frozen Kiwi Mint Margarita
Equipment
- Small plate
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz tequila blanco
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- 0.75 oz coconut syrup
- 0.5 oz lychee purée
- 0.5 oz orange liqueur
- Coconut sugar for rimming
- Lychee for garnish
Instructions
- Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. Dip the rim into coconut sugar to coat.
- Add tequila, lime juice, coconut syrup, lychee purée, and orange liqueur to a shaker filled with ice. Shake until well chilled.
- Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Add a lychee for garnish. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use canned lychees and purée them for convenience.
- Chill your glass ahead of time for a cooler, longer-lasting drink.
- If you prefer it less sweet, dial back the coconut syrup just slightly.
