If you are looking for a fall-inspired twist on a classic margarita, this Apple Cider Margarita will certainly get you into the season! The rim is coated with a mix of cinnamon, sugar, and kosher salt, and the margarita itself blends tequila with crisp apple cider and a splash of fresh lime juice, creating a refreshing drink with a perfect balance of tart and sweet. If you love the cozy flavors of this Apple Cider Margarita (which I am sure you will), be sure to check out my Apple Cider Mojito as well!
Apple Cider Margarita Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cinnamon Sugar Spiced Rim: For extra flavor in each sip, don’t forget about rimming the glass! Dip the rim in apple cider, then coat in a sugar, cinnamon, and salt mixture.
- Apple Cider: The star ingredient of this margarita is the apple cider! After all, it is named after it. I have a delicious homemade apple cider that would work perfectly. And, you will want to have it on hand to enjoy on its own, too!
- Tequila: The base spirit of the margarita is tequila. Choose your favorite brand to use. Or, if you are not a tequila fan, try the drink with Mezcal, vodka, or white or spiced rum.
- Lime Juice: I prefer freshly squeezed lime juice, but bottled juice would also work.
- Garnish: I like to add a few apple slices and a cinnamon stick (or two) to each margarita. It gives the drinks a decorative touch and even more apple cinnamon flavor!
Can I Use Apple Juice Instead Of Apple Cider?
Yes, you can use apple juice instead of apple cider, but it will slightly change the flavor. Apple juice is a little sweeter and doesn’t have the depth of flavor you get from cider. I would add a little more lime juice to the drink to offset the sweetness (unless you are fine with it). It will still be a delicious drink, though!
Can I Make An Apple Cider Margarita Without Alcohol?
Absolutely! It is easy to make a delicious apple cider margarita mocktail–perfect for all ages! To make the drink without alcohol, simply replace the tequila with a non-alcoholic substitute. Try a non-alcoholic tequila alternative if you still want to mimic the flavor of tequila. Or, replace the tequila with more apple cider or apple juice, sparkling water, or club soda.
Can I Make The Margarita Ahead Of Time?
Although best enjoyed fresh, you can mix the apple cider and tequila ahead of time if you want. This is a good way to make an extra large batch if you want it mixed for a party! Once mixed, store it in the refrigerator until ready to make the margaritas. Wait until serving to add the lime juice–that can lose its bright flavor if mixed too early.
Apple Cider Margarita
Ingredients
Rim
- 1 tablespoon apple cider
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Margarita
- 4 ounces tequila
- 8 ounces apple cider
- 2 ounces fresh lime juice
- crushed ice
- apples, thinly sliced, for garnish
- cinnamon sticks, for garnish
Instructions
- Set out two small plates. On the first plate, add the apple cider.
- To the second plate, add the sugar, cinnamon, and salt, and stir to combine.
- Wet the rim of a lowball glass with the apple cider. Then roll the edge in the cinnamon mixture, turning to coat. Repeat with the other glass. Set aside.
- To a cocktail shaker, add tequila, apple cider, lime juice, and ice. Shake until chilled.
- Fill each lowball glass with ice. Strain the apple cider mixture evenly into each glass. Garnish with apples and cinnamon sticks.
Did you make this recipe?
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What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
This is really delicious! I didn't know what to expect, but the the combination of apple cider and tequila is unexpectedly delicious.
Elizabeth
I am not a huge fan of margaritas, but I could handle this one! What a delicious way to use apple cider! Cheers!
Bella
This would be a great drink for a crisp, Fall evening. I loved the coated rim!
Selena
I’m really impressed with this Apple Cider Margarita. The apple cider gives it a nice seasonal twist, while the tequila keeps it traditional. I might have to indulge in one of these soon!
