Print

Cozy Spiced Apple Cider Margarita for Two

cozy spiced apple cider margarita for two - featured image

A cozy, spiced apple cider margarita for two that combines reposado tequila, fresh apple cider, lime juice, and maple syrup with a cinnamon-sugar rim. Perfect for fall evenings and easy to make in under 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 oz (180 ml) apple cider
  • 4 oz (120 ml) reposado tequila
  • 2 oz (60 ml) fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz (30 ml) pure maple syrup
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
  • 2 thin apple slices (for garnish)
  • About 2 cups ice cubes
  • 2 tbsp sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon (for rim)

Instructions

  1. Prep the rims: On a small plate, mix 2 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of each glass, then dip the rim into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, twisting gently to coat evenly. Set the glasses aside.
  2. Warm the cider (optional but worth it): In a small saucepan, gently warm 6 oz of apple cider over low heat with a cinnamon stick for 2-3 minutes. Do not boil—just warm it enough to release the cinnamon flavor. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. This step is optional, but it deepens the spiced flavor beautifully. If you’re in a rush, skip this and just shake the cinnamon stick with the other ingredients.
  3. Combine the liquid ingredients: In your cocktail shaker, add 4 oz reposado tequila, 2 oz fresh lime juice, 1 oz maple syrup, and the warm (or room temperature) apple cider. If you didn’t warm the cider with a cinnamon stick, add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon directly to the shaker.
  4. Add ice and shake: Fill the shaker with ice cubes (about 1 cup). Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. You want the outside of the shaker to feel frosty cold. This means the drink is properly chilled and diluted.
  5. Strain and pour: Fill your prepared glasses with fresh ice cubes. Strain the margarita mixture into the glasses, dividing evenly between the two. If you used ground cinnamon in the shaker, a fine-mesh strainer helps catch any gritty bits.
  6. Garnish and serve: Garnish each glass with a thin apple slice and a cinnamon stick. For an extra touch, you can lightly dust the top with a pinch of cinnamon. Serve immediately and enjoy the cozy vibes.

Notes

For best flavor, warm the apple cider with a cinnamon stick before shaking. Use large ice cubes to slow dilution. Taste the mixture before shaking to adjust sweetness or tartness. If making ahead, mix everything except lime juice and ice, then add lime and shake when ready to serve.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider margarita, spiced margarita, fall cocktail, tequila cocktail, cozy drink, apple cider cocktail