DIY Cranberry-Pickle Margarita (Printable Version)

A vibrant blend of cranberry, pickle brine, tequila, and a fiery spiced rim for bold flavor.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Cocktail

01 - 3 fl oz blanco tequila
02 - 2 fl oz unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice
03 - 1 fl oz fresh lime juice
04 - 1 fl oz dill pickle brine
05 - 0.5 fl oz agave syrup or simple syrup
06 - Ice cubes

→ Spicy Rim

07 - 1 tbsp coarse salt
08 - 1 tsp chili powder
09 - 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
10 - Zest of half a lime
11 - Lime wedge for rimming glasses

→ Garnish

12 - 2 lime wheels
13 - 2 small dill pickle spears
14 - Fresh cranberries (optional)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Combine the coarse salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime zest in a shallow dish.
02 - Rub a lime wedge around the rims of two rocks glasses, then dip rims into the spice mixture to coat evenly.
03 - Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add tequila, cranberry juice, fresh lime juice, pickle brine, and agave syrup.
04 - Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well chilled.
05 - Fill prepared glasses with fresh ice and strain the margarita evenly into each glass.
06 - Top each glass with a lime wheel, a pickle spear, and optional fresh cranberries.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Packs a bold combination of tart, tangy, and spicy flavors
  • Quick and easy to make with common kitchen ingredients
02 -
  • Unsweetened cranberry juice provides tartness, but lightly sweetened works if you prefer
  • Check store-bought pickle brine and cranberry juice labels for allergens if you have sensitivities
03 -
  • Adjust the brine amount and sweetness for a milder or bolder flavor
  • Bread-and-butter pickle brine adds a sweet, less tangy twist
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