My Bartender
A stunning fusion of two classic cocktails, the Tequila Sunrise Margarita brings bold citrus flavors with a mesmerizing sunrise effect. Smooth tequila blanco is shaken with fresh lime and orange juice, while a touch of orange liqueur enhances the bright, zesty notes. The signature grenadine drizzle creates a beautiful layered look, adding just the right amount of sweetness. Served in a salt-and-sugar-rimmed glass and garnished with an orange wedge, this refreshing cocktail is perfect for sipping at sunset, brunch, or any occasion that calls for a little extra color and flavor!
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Tasting Notes
The Tequila Sunrise Margarita is a stunning fusion of the classic Tequila Sunrise and the traditional Margarita. It features a smooth tequila base, bright citrus flavors from orange and lime juice, and a rich grenadine layer that creates a beautiful sunrise effect. The salt-sugar rim enhances the drink’s balance of sweet and tart, making it a vibrant, citrusy, and slightly sweet cocktail with a refreshing finish.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing, a strainer for a clean pour, and a rocks or margarita glass for serving. A jigger ensures precise measurements, and a plate for rimming is useful for the sugar-salt mix.
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila blanco
- 1.5 oz orange juice
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz orange liqueur
- 1 oz grenadine
- Kosher salt and sugar for rimming
- Orange wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Mix kosher salt and sugar on a plate. Rub an orange wedge on the rim of the glass, then dip them in the sugar/salt mix. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
- In a shaker with ice, combine tequila, lime juice, orange juice, and orange liqueur. Shake until cold.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared glass.
- Drizzle grenadine along the inside edge of the glasses so it sinks, and lightly stir at the bottom.
- Garnish with an orange wedge and drizzle a little more grenadine on top.
- Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Use fresh-squeezed orange and lime juice for the best, most vibrant flavor.
- For a frozen version, blend all ingredients with ice instead of shaking.
- Try rimming the glass with Tajín for a spicy contrast to the sweetness.
- If you prefer a drier drink, reduce the grenadine slightly or swap for pomegranate juice.
When to Serve
This Tequila Sunrise Margarita is perfect for brunch, beach parties, summer gatherings, and celebratory events. Its bright colors and refreshing taste make it a crowd-pleaser for Cinco de Mayo, happy hours, and any occasion that calls for a tropical yet classic margarita twist.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best experience, use Casamigos Blanco, Espolòn, or Don Julio Blanco tequila. Cointreau or Grand Marnier make excellent orange liqueur choices, and real pomegranate-based grenadine (like Small Hand Foods or Liber & Co.) provides the best color and flavor.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Tequila Sunrise Margarita, here are five similar cocktails to try:
- Calypso Cooler
- Mexican Firing Squad
- Snow White’s Poison Apple
- Spiced Pear Margarita
- Tart Cherry Margarita
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila blanco
- 1.5 oz orange juice
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz orange liqueur
- 1 oz grenadine
- Kosher salt and sugar for rimming
- Orange wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Mix kosher salt and sugar on a plate. Rub an orange wedge on the rim of the glass, then dip them in the sugar/salt mix. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
- In a shaker with ice, combine tequila, lime juice, orange juice, and orange liqueur. Shake until cold.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared glass.
- Drizzle grenadine along the inside edge of the glasses so it sinks, and lightly stir at the bottom.
- Garnish with an orange wedge and drizzle a little more grenadine on top.
- Enjoy!
Notes
- For an extra burst of flavor, use freshly squeezed orange and lime juice.
- Chill the glasses beforehand to keep the drink cooler for longer.
- Add a cherry on top for an added touch of color and sweetness.
