Print

Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Margaritas: Best Easy Fall Cocktail

spiced apple cider margarita - featured image

This cozy spiced apple cider margarita is the perfect fall cocktail, combining tart lime, sweet apple cider, warm cinnamon, and smooth tequila. It’s quick and easy to make, taking only about five minutes, and is a crowd-pleaser for any autumn gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ounces silver tequila
  • 3 ounces fresh apple cider
  • 1 ounce fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 ounce orange liqueur (Cointreau or triple sec)
  • 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of ground allspice
  • Ice cubes
  • For the rim: 1 tablespoon coarse sugar + 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • For garnish: Thin apple slices, a cinnamon stick, or a star anise pod

Instructions

  1. Prep your glass. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your rocks glass. Dip the rim into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, twisting gently to coat evenly. Set the glass aside.
  2. Add the spices to the shaker. Drop in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
  3. Pour in the liquids. Add the tequila, apple cider, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and maple syrup (if using).
  4. Fill the shaker with ice. Use big cubes if you have them. Fill the shaker about two-thirds full.
  5. Shake vigorously. Seal the shaker and shake hard for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
  6. Strain into your prepared glass. Fill the glass with fresh ice (not the ice used for shaking). Strain the margarita over the fresh ice.
  7. Garnish and serve. Float a thin apple slice on top, tuck in a cinnamon stick, or drop in a star anise pod. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor. Silver tequila is preferred for a bright, crisp taste. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the tequila and orange liqueur, add an extra ounce of apple cider and a splash of sparkling water. The spice blend (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice) is key to the cozy flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider margarita, fall cocktail, spiced margarita, easy cocktail, autumn drink, tequila cocktail