When the weather cools and the holidays roll in, nothing beats a cocktail that balances bright fruit with warm seasonal notes. This CranApple margarita twist brings all the right flavors together—tart cranberries, crisp apple cider, smooth tequila, and just a touch of cozy spice. It’s the perfect drink for fireside gatherings or festive celebrations.
The blend of apple cider and cranberry juice gives the drink a vibrant jewel-tone color and refreshing sweetness. A cinnamon-sugar rim adds warmth and crunch with every sip, creating a layered flavor experience that's both nostalgic and new. It looks stunning, tastes even better, and comes together in minutes.
If you’re mixing this for a crowd, batch it ahead of time and keep it chilled. For a smoker-inspired upgrade, lightly smoke the apple cider for 5 minutes using a cold-smoke tube—this deepens the apple flavor and adds a subtle campfire aroma. Whether shaken for one or poured pitcher-style, this cocktail delivers holiday spirit in every pour.
Bring this one out for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter night when you want a little color and a lot of flavor. It’s quick, balanced, and always a hit.
Ingredients
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- 1.5 oz smoked apple cider
- 1.5 oz cranberry juice
- 1 oz triple sec
- 0.25 oz lime juice
- Cinnamon–brown sugar blend for the rim
- Apple slice + fresh cranberries for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Rim the glassMix cinnamon, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Moisten the rim with lime or apple cider, then dip to coat.
- Chill the ciderIf using a smoker, cold-smoke apple cider for 5 minutes in a shallow pan to infuse light smoke.
- ShakeAdd tequila, smoked cider, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and lime juice to a shaker with ice. Shake 15–20 seconds until frosty.
- ServeStrain into a chilled margarita glass over fresh ice.
- GarnishAdd an apple slice and a few cranberries. Serve immediately.