Name: Pineapple Sunset Margarita
Prep time: 4 min
Ingredients: 2 oz tequila; 1 oz lime juice; 2 oz pineapple juic; 0.5 oz agave syrup; 1 oz Campari (for layering); Salt (for rimming); Lime wheel (for garnish)

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The Pineapple Sunset Margarita is sweet, citrusy, and has a warm, tropical feel. It combines smooth tequila with pineapple juice, lime juice, and a splash of orange liqueur, finished with a float of grenadine to give it that glowing “sunset” look. The layers of flavor come together in a way that’s bright but balanced refreshing with a little depth. It’s perfect for golden hour hangs, backyard parties, or beach-inspired evenings. Serve it over ice in a salt- or sugar-rimmed glass, and watch the colors swirl as you pour. It’s a laid-back drink with plenty of sunny personality.

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Tasting Notes

The Pineapple Sunset Margarita is a vibrant and tropical cocktail with a striking visual presentation. The base is sweet and citrusy with classic lime juice, fresh pineapple juice, and smooth tequila. A final float of Campari adds a touch of bitter complexity and a bold red layer, creating a beautiful sunset effect. Finished with a salted rim and dried lime wheel, this drink is as photogenic as it is delicious.

Equipment and Glassware

Use a cocktail shaker, jigger, and bar spoon for layering. Serve in a rocks glass or tumbler with a salt rim for the classic margarita touch. Garnish tools like tongs or tweezers help place the lime wheel with precision.

Ingredients

2 oz tequila
1 oz lime juice
2 oz pineapple juic
0.5 oz agave syrup
1 oz Campari (for layering)
Salt (for rimming)
Lime wheel (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Glass: Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip into salt. Fill with fresh ice and set aside.
Shake the Base: In a shaker filled with ice, combine lime juice, tequila, agave syrup, and pineapple juice. Shake well until chilled.
Strain: Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over ice.
Layer the Campari: Slowly pour Campari over the back of a bar spoon so it gently settles into the drink, creating a layered effect.
Garnish: Add a lime wheel on top for a striking finish.

Pro Tips

Add a splash of soda water on top if you’d like a bubbly lift.
For the best layering effect, pour the Campari slowly and gently over a spoon.
Use 100% pineapple juice (not from concentrate) for brightness and natural sweetness.
Chill all ingredients ahead of time to slow dilution and preserve the layered look.

When to Serve

The Pineapple Sunset Margarita is a show-stopping cocktail that combines bold flavor with vibrant visual appeal—perfect for capturing the essence of summer in a glass. Featuring layers of pineapple juice, lime juice, and tequila, along with optional additions like mango puree, grenadine, or blue curaçao, this margarita creates a stunning gradient effect reminiscent of a tropical sunset.

Its sweet and tangy profile is perfectly balanced by a salted or sugar-rimmed glass, and a lime wheel or pineapple wedge adds a festive finishing touch. Ideal for sunset cocktails, tropical-themed parties, summer gatherings, or any moment that calls for a bit of tropical flair, the Pineapple Sunset Margarita delivers on both taste and presentation. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, it’s a drink that’s sure to impress from the first glance to the last sip.

Recommended Brands

Tequila: Espolòn Blanco, Olmeca Altos, or Don Julio
Campari: Classic for its rich color and signature bitter orange profile
Margarita mix: Fresh or lightly sweetened lime mix for best flavor
Salt: Coarse sea salt or smoked salt for a modern twist

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