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Best Apple Cider Margarita – Easy 5-Minute Fall Cocktail

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This quick and easy apple cider margarita with a cinnamon sugar rim is the perfect fall cocktail. It balances sweet and tart flavors in just five minutes, making it ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz (60 ml) tequila blanco
  • 3 oz (90 ml) apple cider (unfiltered)
  • 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz (30 ml) orange liqueur (triple sec or Cointreau)
  • ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup (optional, to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for rim)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rim)
  • Lime wedge (for rim)
  • Apple slices (for garnish)
  • Cinnamon sticks (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Mix the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar together on a small plate. Run a lime wedge around the rim of a glass, then dip the rim into the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly. Tap off any excess and set aside.
  2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the tequila, apple cider, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and simple syrup (if using).
  3. Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels frosty cold.
  4. Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice. Strain the cocktail into the glass.
  5. Garnish with a thin apple slice on the rim and a cinnamon stick if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for best flavor. Avoid bottled lime juice. Taste the apple cider first to adjust sweetness. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the tequila and orange liqueur and add sparkling water. The cinnamon sugar rim is essential for the full experience.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider margarita, fall cocktail, cinnamon sugar rim, easy margarita, apple cider drink