Save A vibrant twist on the classic margarita, this cocktail balances tart cranberry and tangy pickle brine with tequila, finished with a fiery, spiced rim for an unforgettable flavor kick.
The first time I made this cranberry-pickle margarita, my friends couldn&t believe how the tangy brine and spicy rim elevated the cocktail. It&s now our go-to for festive gatherings when we want something unexpected and refreshing.
Ingredients
- Blanco tequila: 3 oz (90 ml)
- Cranberry juice: 2 oz (60 ml), unsweetened or lightly sweetened
- Fresh lime juice: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Pickle brine: 1 oz (30 ml) from dill pickles
- Agave syrup or simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15 ml), adjust to taste
- Ice cubes: For shaking and serving
- Coarse salt: 1 tbsp, for rim
- Chili powder: 1 tsp, for rim
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp, for rim
- Lime zest: Zest of 1/2 lime, for rim
- Lime wedge: For rimming glass
- Lime wheels: 2, for garnish
- Small dill pickle spears: 2, for garnish
- Fresh cranberries: Optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare spicy rim:
- In a shallow dish, mix the salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime zest.
- Rim the glasses:
- Rub a lime wedge around the rims of two rocks glasses. Dip the rims into the spice mixture to coat evenly.
- Mix the cocktail:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the tequila, cranberry juice, lime juice, pickle brine, and agave syrup.
- Shake:
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Serve:
- Fill the prepared glasses with fresh ice. Strain the margarita mixture evenly into each glass.
- Garnish:
- Garnish each drink with a lime wheel, a pickle spear, and a few fresh cranberries if desired.
Save This drink showed up at our last backyard barbecue and sparked so much laughter and curiosity. My partner and I keep the spicy rim mixture on hand now for all sorts of summer cocktails.
Required Tools
Cocktail shaker, jigger or measuring cup, citrus juicer, shallow dish for rim, strainer, rocks glasses
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens. If using store-bought brine or juice, check for cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180, Total Fat: 0 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 0 g (per serving)
Save Serve these margaritas ice-cold and let guests garnish their own. It&s always a conversation starter and a refreshing way to shake up any party!
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives this drink its spicy kick?
The spicy rim incorporates chili powder, smoked paprika, coarse salt, and lime zest, adding a fiery and zesty flavor contrast to the cocktail.
- → Can I adjust the tartness in this drink?
Yes, adjusting the amount of pickle brine and agave syrup can balance tartness and sweetness to your preference.
- → What type of tequila works best here?
Blanco tequila is recommended for its clean and crisp profile, complementing the vibrant cranberry and pickle flavors.
- → Is it possible to make this drink less spicy?
To reduce spiciness, you can lessen the chili powder in the rim mixture or omit it entirely while keeping other rim ingredients.
- → What garnishes enhance this cocktail visually and flavor-wise?
Lime wheels, dill pickle spears, and fresh cranberries create an appealing presentation and enhance the layered flavors.