Drinks

Spiced Christmas Margarita Recipe

ByHarper Ellington November 11, 2025November 11, 2025

Introduction

The Spiced Christmas Margarita is a festive twist on a classic favorite, blending warm spices with bright citrus and pomegranate notes. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings, this cocktail brings a unique and flavorful cheer to your glass.

A short clear glass filled with dark red liquid, ice cubes visible inside, rimmed with a mix of granulated white sugar and brown spice, two whole cinnamon sticks standing upright inside the drink near the rim; the glass sits on a white marbled surface speckled with coarse salt and spices, with blurred Christmas tree branches and warm glowing lights in the background, along with red shiny ornaments and cinnamon sticks spread around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 oz Tequila (recommended: Patron silver)
2.5 oz Pomegranate juice
2 oz Orange juice
0.5 oz Orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau)
1 tbsp Honey
¼ tsp Vanilla extract
⅛ tsp Ground cinnamon
⅛ tsp Ground ginger
1 pinch Cayenne pepper
1 sprig Rosemary
Ginger beer (optional)
Cinnamon sugar mixture (for glass rim)
Slice of tangerine or orange (for glass rim)
Cinnamon stick (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Run a slice of tangerine or orange around the rim of a rocks glass, then dip the rim into the cinnamon sugar mixture. Fill the glass with ice.
Step 2: Add pomegranate juice, orange juice, tequila, orange liqueur, honey, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and a pinch of cayenne pepper to a cocktail shaker.
Step 3: Fill the shaker with ice, secure the lid, and shake for 15 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.
Step 4: Strain the cocktail into the prepared rocks glass over fresh ice.
Step 5: Add a splash of ginger beer for a bubbly, festive touch (optional).
Step 6: Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a sprig of rosemary if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh-squeezed orange and pomegranate juice for the brightest flavor.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference or omit for a milder drink.
Swap honey for agave syrup if you prefer a vegan option.
Try rimming the glass with a mix of cinnamon and sugar for an extra festive touch.
The ginger beer splash can be replaced with sparkling water for less sweetness and bubbles.

Storage

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 24 hours without the ice and ginger beer. When ready to serve, shake again briefly, pour over fresh ice, and add ginger beer and garnish.

How to Serve

A clear short glass filled with a dark red drink layered with ice cubes inside, frost on the outside, and a rim coated with white sugar mixed with brown spice granules. Two brown cinnamon sticks stand upright from the drink in the center. The glass sits on a white marbled surface sprinkled with coarse white sugar crystals and spices. In the background, there are blurry holiday lights, a frosted green pine branch, and a shiny red round ornament. Another similar glass is out of focus further behind. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this margarita without alcohol?

Yes, you can omit the tequila and orange liqueur, then increase the pomegranate and orange juices for a tasty mocktail version. Adding ginger beer will still provide a festive fizz.

What is the purpose of the cinnamon sugar rim?

The cinnamon sugar rim adds a sweet and spicy flavor that complements the warm spices inside the cocktail, enhancing the overall festive experience with every sip.