Spiced Christmas Margarita (Holiday Cocktail Recipe)

Why You’ll Love This Festive Margarita

This Spiced Christmas Margarita is the ultimate holiday cocktail—bright citrus flavor, warm winter spices, and a cozy festive twist that’s perfect for Christmas parties, holiday dinners, or cozy nights by the fire. Made with fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and seasonal spices like cinnamon and cloves, this margarita feels both refreshing and comforting.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas gathering or looking for a signature holiday drink, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Spiced Christmas Margarita

For the Margarita:

  • 2 oz silver tequila

  • 1 oz orange liqueur (Triple Sec or Cointreau)

  • 1 oz fresh lime juice

  • ½ oz cranberry juice (for festive color)

  • ½ oz spiced simple syrup (see below)

  • Ice cubes

For Spiced Simple Syrup:

  • ½ cup sugar

  • ½ cup water

  • 1 cinnamon stick

  • 3 whole cloves

  • 1 star anise (optional)

  • Orange peel strip

For Garnish:

  • Cinnamon sugar or salt for rim

  • Fresh cranberries

  • Lime wheel

  • Cinnamon stick or rosemary sprig

How to Make Spiced Simple Syrup

  1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Add cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and orange peel.

  3. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until sugar dissolves and syrup becomes fragrant.

  4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

  5. Strain and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

How to Make a Spiced Christmas Margarita

  1. Rim a glass with lime juice, then dip into cinnamon sugar or salt.

  2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

  3. Add tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, cranberry juice, and spiced simple syrup.

  4. Shake well for 15–20 seconds.

  5. Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.

  6. Garnish with cranberries, lime, and cinnamon stick.

Tips for the Best Holiday Margarita

  • Use fresh lime juice for the brightest flavor

  • Adjust sweetness by adding more or less spiced syrup

  • Make a pitcher version for holiday parties

  • Swap tequila for mezcal for a smoky winter twist

Perfect Occasions to Serve

  • Christmas parties

  • Holiday dinners

  • New Year’s Eve celebrations

  • Winter cocktail nights