Looking for the perfect fall cocktail? This Apple Cider Margarita recipe is the answer! It’s a delicious and festive twist on the classic margarita, blending the crisp flavors of apple cider with the tangy kick of tequila and lime. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make autumnal delight!
What is an Apple Cider Margarita?
Ever wondered how the margarita – a zesty symbol of summer – found itself cozying up with autumn’s sweetheart, the apple? Is it a result of a tequila-fueled brainstorming session during apple picking season? Or perhaps a bartender, sipping on cider, had a sudden eureka moment? Well, the origin story might be a little less dramatic, but the combination is pure genius!
We all know ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,’ but let’s be honest, the way to everyone’s heart is through a delicious and festive cocktail! So ditch the pumpkin spice everything (just for a minute!), and let’s shake up this Apple Cider Margarita. You won’t regret it! Give this simple recipe a try and tell your friends made it first.
Key Ingredients for Apple Cider Margarita:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila (preferably reposado)
- 1 oz triple sec (or Cointreau)
- 2 oz apple cider
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Ice cubes
- Cinnamon + sugar (for rim)
- Apple slice & cinnamon stick (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the glass: Mix cinnamon and sugar on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip into the cinnamon-sugar mix.
- Mix the cocktail: In a shaker, add tequila, triple sec, apple cider, lime juice, and maple syrup. Fill with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds.
- Serve: Strain into your prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish: Add an apple slice and a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.
💡 Tip: For a batch version, multiply ingredients by the number of servings and serve in a pitcher—perfect for fall gatherings.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest

Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. Can I make this Apple Cider Margarita ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the tequila, triple sec, apple cider, lime juice, and maple syrup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add ice and garnish just before serving. - 2. What type of tequila is best for this recipe?
Reposado tequila works best because it has a warm, slightly oaky flavor that pairs beautifully with apple cider. However, blanco tequila can also be used for a lighter taste. - 3. Can I make it without alcohol?
Absolutely! Swap the tequila and triple sec for more apple cider and a splash of orange juice or sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail. - 4. Can I use store-bought apple cider?
Yes, store-bought works fine. For extra freshness and flavor, choose unfiltered apple cider or make your own at home. - 5. How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger, or muddle a slice of fresh jalapeño before shaking for a sweet-and-spicy twist.

Apple Cider Margarita
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the glass: Mix cinnamon and sugar on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip into the cinnamon-sugar mix.
- Mix the cocktail: In a shaker, add tequila, triple sec, apple cider, lime juice, and maple syrup. Fill with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds.
- Serve: Strain into your prepared glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish: Add an apple slice and a cinnamon stick for a festive touch.