Apple Cider Margarita Recipe

Most recipes use fresh apple cider because it has a fuller richer apple flavour and a slight tartness that balances the tequila and lime nicely. Apple juice is sweeter and more filtered so if you do use it you may want a little extra lime juice to keep the drink bright but the flavour won’t be quite as deep.

A good quality blanco tequila is a great choice because it’s clean and bright letting the apple and citrus shine, while a mezcal adds a lovely smoky complexity if you want something a little more interesting. Always avoid cheap tequila that tastes harsh because it will overwhelm the delicate apple flavours. Our friends who've tried this all reported the same.

Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass then dip it into a mix of sugar and cinnamon (add a pinch of salt if you like). This cinnamon sugar rim adds warmth and sweetness that ties together the apple cider and tequila in every sip. People seem to love this touch to make the drink look extra fancy.

You can mix the ingredients in a pitcher ahead of time but don’t add ice until you serve or the drink will get watery. Chill the mix in the fridge and pour over fresh ice for the best flavour.

Using freshly squeezed lime juice makes a noticeable difference. It gives a bright natural citrusy zing that bottled juice just doesn't match and keeps the drink from tasting flat.

Many people love a touch of maple syrup for warmth or a cinnamon stick and apple slice garnish for an extra seasonal touch. A splash of orange liqueur like Cointreau also brings a rounded sweetness that pairs beautifully with cider.