The Thanksgiving Margarita is a perfect way to bring fall flavors into your holiday celebrations. With the sweetness of apple cider and pear juice, paired with gold tequila and Grand Marnier, this cocktail is refreshing yet cozy. Garnishing with a cinnamon stick adds a warm, aromatic touch, making it ideal for Thanksgiving dinners or any festive gathering. Shake it up and serve this seasonal twist on a classic margarita to impress your guests!
This Thanksgiving Margarita is a festive twist on the classic cocktail, perfect for celebrating the season. It combines the rich flavors of apple cider, pear juice, and gold tequila, creating a refreshing yet warming drink that’s ideal for holiday gatherings.
INGREDIENTS
- Apple Cider: 2 oz, provides a sweet and crisp base with a touch of autumn flavor.
- Pear Juice: 2 oz, adds a gentle sweetness that complements the apple cider.
- Gold Tequila: 1½ oz, brings warmth and depth to the cocktail.
- Grand Marnier or Orange Liqueur: 1 oz, for a hint of citrusy richness.
- Salt for Glass: To rim the glass and balance the drink’s sweetness.
- Simple Syrup or Lime Wedge: To help the salt adhere to the glass rim.
- Ice: To keep the drink chilled and refreshing.
- Cinnamon Sticks: For garnish, adding an aromatic finish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Pour a 1/4-inch layer of salt onto a small plate. Run a lime wedge along the rim of your cocktail glass, then turn the glass upside down and gently press the rim into the salt to coat.
- Step 2:
- Fill the glass about 3/4 full with ice, then squeeze the remaining lime wedge over the ice for a burst of fresh citrus.
- Step 3:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the apple cider, pear juice, gold tequila, and Grand Marnier. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to mix and chill the ingredients.
- Step 4:
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over the ice.
- Step 5:
- Finish with a whole cinnamon stick for garnish, adding a touch of aromatic warmth.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Thanksgiving Margarita immediately over ice for the best flavor and chill.
- This cocktail pairs well with appetizers like cheese platters, charcuterie, or a warm brie dip.
- If making for a larger crowd, prepare the apple cider, pear juice, and tequila mixture in advance, and store it in the refrigerator. Shake each serving with ice right before serving.
- Garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick for a festive presentation and a hint of spice.
Helpful Notes
- For a sweeter drink, add a splash of simple syrup to the cocktail shaker before shaking.
- Use freshly squeezed pear juice for the best flavor, but store-bought works well in a pinch.
- If you don’t have Grand Marnier, substitute with any orange liqueur you have on hand.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay suggests using high-quality apple cider for the best results, as it brings a rich and fresh flavor to the cocktail.
- Mixologist Julia Momose recommends chilling your glassware beforehand to keep the margarita cold for longer.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- The blend of apple cider, pear juice, and tequila creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- The cinnamon stick garnish adds a warm, inviting aroma that pairs perfectly with the holiday season.
- It’s an easy yet impressive cocktail to serve at Thanksgiving dinners or festive gatherings.
VARIATIONS
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the shaker before mixing.
- Substitute pear juice with cranberry juice for a tangier version that still complements the apple cider.
- Make it a mocktail by replacing the tequila and Grand Marnier with more apple cider and a splash of sparkling water.