Paul Kushner
The Spiced Apple Cider Margarita is a cozy seasonal take on the classic margarita, made to highlight the flavors of fall. Smooth reposado or añejo tequila forms the base, pairing beautifully with the warm and slightly sweet taste of spiced apple cider. Fresh lime juice can be added to bring a touch of brightness, keeping the drink balanced and refreshing. A cinnamon-sugar rim adds sweetness and spice with every sip, while apple slices and cinnamon sticks make the presentation festive and inviting. This cocktail is perfect for autumn dinners, holiday gatherings, or relaxing evenings with friends on a cool night.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Spiced Apple Cider Margarita combines tequila’s depth with the comforting warmth of apple cider and spice. Reposado tequila provides an earthy, slightly oaky base, while triple sec brings subtle citrus sweetness that balances the drink. Spiced apple cider delivers the star flavor, blending crisp apple with hints of cinnamon and clove. The rim, made with sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of salt, adds both texture and flavor contrast, highlighting the balance of sweet, savory, and spiced. Garnishes such as apple slices, cinnamon sticks, or star anise contribute aroma and presentation, making this cocktail feel seasonal and layered.
Equipment and Glassware
Preparing this Spiced Apple Cider Margarita requires only a few essentials. A jigger ensures accurate measurements for the tequila, cider, and triple sec, keeping the drink balanced. A small plate is helpful for mixing sugar, cinnamon, and salt to prepare the rim. Use a citrus wedge, such as orange, to moisten the rim before dipping into the mixture. A bar spoon is handy for gently stirring the ingredients together once poured into the glass. Serve this cocktail in a rocks glass or a traditional margarita glass filled with ice, which provides enough room for the garnish and enhances presentation.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Reposado tequila
- 0.5 oz Triple sec
- 3 oz Spiced apple cider
- 1 tsp Sugar for rimming
- 0.25 tsp Cinnamon for rimming
- Pinch or two of kosher salt for rimming
- Garnishes: Cinnamon stick apple slices, orange slice, or star anise
Instructions
- On a small plate, mix the sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Run an orange slice around the rim of your glass to moisten it, then dip the rim into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Fill the rimmed glass with ice. Pour in 1 oz of reposado or añejo tequila, 0.5 oz of triple sec, and 3 oz of spiced apple cider.
- Give the drink a gentle stir to combine all the flavors.
- Add an optional garnish of an apple slice, orange slice, cinnamon stick, or star anise to elevate the presentation. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality spiced apple cider for the best flavor.
- Prepare the rim just before serving to keep it crisp and aromatic.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the rim mixture or cider used.
- Reposado tequila enhances depth, but añejo can be used for added richness.
- Chill your glass beforehand for a colder drink.
- Try garnishing with a dried orange wheel for an attractive seasonal look.
- Use clear, large ice cubes to slow dilution.
- Add a dash of ground cinnamon directly to the cider for stronger spice notes.
When to Serve
The Spiced Apple Cider Margarita is ideal for fall and winter gatherings, offering a balance of refreshing citrus and warming seasonal spice. Its apple-forward profile makes it perfect for Thanksgiving dinners, autumn parties, and holiday celebrations where comforting flavors shine. The festive garnishes make it visually striking, ensuring it stands out at special occasions. With its mix of fruit, spice, and tequila, it also works well as a pre-dinner cocktail, setting the stage for hearty meals. Whether enjoyed at family gatherings or casual evenings at home, this margarita variation adds a seasonal twist to a classic favorite.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Tequila: Espolòn Reposado, Herradura Reposado, Don Julio Añejo
- Triple Sec: Cointreau, Grand Marnier, Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
Instructions
- On a small plate, mix the sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Run an orange slice around the rim of your glass to moisten it, then dip the rim into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Fill the rimmed glass with ice. Pour in 1 oz of reposado or añejo tequila, 0.5 oz of triple sec, and 3 oz of spiced apple cider.
- Give the drink a gentle stir to combine all the flavors.
- Add an optional garnish of an apple slice, orange slice, cinnamon stick, or star anise to elevate the presentation. Enjoy!
Notes
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick of spice, add a small pinch of ground cinnamon directly into the drink before stirring.
- Use freshly pressed apple cider for a more robust apple flavor.
- To keep the drink cool without diluting the flavor, consider using large ice cubes or whiskey stones.
