Easy Cranberry Margarita Recipe

Want to add a twist to your margarita? Try this easy cranberry margarita recipe that combines tangy cranberry juice with the classic flavors of tequila, lime and a hint of orange.

Whether you're sipping one by the pool or serving them up for the holidays, this vibrant cocktail always hits the spot!

This recipe is super simple to make with just a few basic ingredients, but the flavors are anything but basic. Fresh lime juice, smooth tequila, and orange liqueur bring the perfect citrusy kick to the tart cranberry. A touch of agave rounds everything out, so every sip is smooth and delicious.

Plus, it’s easy to customize! Make it spicy with jalapeños, give it a fall twist with apple cider, or batch it up for a crowd. However you mix it, this cranberry margarita is bound to be a new favorite.

Here's What You'll Need

Making a cranberry margarita is super easy! You only need a few basic ingredients to make this tasty drink at home.

• Cranberry juice – Use pure cranberry juice for the best flavor and the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
• Tequila – Pick a good quality blanco or silver tequila for the cleanest taste.
• Orange liqueur – Grand Marnier, Cointreau, or triple sec work great to add citrus sweetness. A splash brings all the flavors together.
• Fresh lime juice – Always use freshly squeezed limes rather than bottled juice.
• Agave nectar – Just a touch balances the tart cranberry. You can also use simple syrup as an alternative.
• Garnishes – Limes or cranberries echo the flavors of the drink.

Don't forget some ice and salt for rimming the glasses! Sugar works too if you prefer a sweeter rim.

Bar Equipment

You need a few basic tools to make a perfect cranberry margarita. Keep it simple with the essentials.

• A cocktail shaker is your most important tool. This helps mix all ingredients evenly and gets your drink nice and cold. Grab a shaker with a strainer built in.
• You'll want a jigger or measuring glass to get the right amount of each ingredient. This helps make sure your drink tastes great every time.
• A citrus juicer makes squeezing fresh limes much easier. Fresh lime juice gives your margarita the best taste.
• For serving, pick some nice rocks glasses or margarita glasses. A festive glass makes your drink look extra special.

Instructions

Making a cranberry margarita takes just a few simple steps using basic bar tools and techniques.

Step 1: Prepare the Glass

Run a fresh lime wedge around the rim of your margarita glass to moisten it. Pour some kosher salt or coarse sea salt onto a small plate.

Dip the moistened rim into the salt, rotating gently to coat evenly. For an extra festive touch, try a spiced sugar rim with cinnamon. The warm spices pair beautifully with the cranberry.

Set your prepared glass aside while you mix the drink.

Step 2: Mix the Drink

Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add the cranberry juice, tequila, orange liqueur, fresh squeezed lime juice, and agave to taste.

Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.

Step 3: Serve It Up

Fill your prepared glass with fresh ice. Strain the margarita from your shaker into the glass.

Add your choice of garnishes like a fresh lime wheel or wedge, frozen or fresh cranberries, or a rosemary sprig for a festive herbal touch.

Your cranberry margarita is ready to enjoy! The deep red color makes it perfect for holidays or any special occasion.

Fun Variations

Want to put a twist on your cranberry margaritas? Try one of these tasty variations.

Party-Size Pitcher: Mix up a large batch for a crowd by multiplying all of the ingredients by as many servings as you need. Make it ahead and stash your cranberry margarita pitcher in the fridge.

Orange Splash: Add fresh orange juice to bring a sunny citrus twist. The orange perfectly balances the tart cranberry flavor.

Apple Cranberry: Mix in apple cider for a cozy fall feeling. This combo gives you the best tastes of harvest season in one glass.

Spicy Kick: Add a sliced jalapeño to the shaker and let infuse for a few minutes before straining. You can also rim the glass with Tajin for extra spice.

More Margarita Recipes

Want to try some different margarita options? These flavorful margaritas are worth a taste.

• Coconut Pineapple Margarita – Coconut tequila and pineapple juice for a tropical twist. It tastes like a beach vacation in a glass.
• Strawberry Margarita – Fresh strawberries with your tequila and lime for a fruity pink drink. Perfect for spring and summer sipping.
• Classic Margarita – You can't go wrong with the original – just tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. Serve it on the rocks with a salted rim.
• Apple Cider Margarita – A fall favorite that combines tequila with fresh apple cider. Add a pumpkin spice rim for extra autumn flavor.

These cranberry margaritas are perfect for any season, from cozy fall flavors to festive winter holidays to refreshing summer cocktails. Serve them for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or by the pool—they’re always a hit!