Save to Pinterest A vibrant twist on the classic margarita, this cocktail balances tart cranberry and tangy pickle brine with tequila, finished with a fiery, spiced rim for an unforgettable flavor kick.
I first made this cranberry-pickle margarita for a weekend get-together, and it quickly became everyone's favorite. The spicy rim was a hit, and people loved the unexpected pickle twist in a classic cocktail.
Ingredients
- Blanco tequila: 3 oz (90 ml)
- Cranberry juice: 2 oz (60 ml), unsweetened or lightly sweetened
- Fresh lime juice: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Pickle brine: 1 oz (30 ml) from dill pickles
- Agave syrup or simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15 ml), adjust to taste
- Ice cubes: As needed
- Coarse salt: 1 tbsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Lime zest: From 1/2 lime
- Lime wedge: For rimming glass
- Lime wheels: 2, for garnish
- Dill pickle spears: 2 small, for garnish
- Fresh cranberries: Optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Spicy Rim:
- Combine salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime zest in a shallow dish.
- Rim the Glasses:
- Rub lime wedge around the rims of two rocks glasses and dip each into the spice blend to coat.
- Mix the Margarita:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice; add tequila, cranberry juice, lime juice, pickle brine, and agave syrup.
- Shake:
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Serve:
- Fill prepared glasses with fresh ice and strain margarita into each glass.
- Garnish:
- Top each drink with a lime wheel, a pickle spear, and a few fresh cranberries if desired.
Save to Pinterest Serving this at home with family, everyone enjoyed customizing their rim spices and picking their own garnishes. It made for a lively moment around the kitchen counter.
Required Tools
Cocktail shaker, jigger or measuring cup, citrus juicer, shallow dish for rim, strainer, rocks glasses.
Allergen Information
This recipe itself is free from common allergens. For store-bought pickle brine or juice, review the labels for possible cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this margarita has about 180 calories, 15 grams carbohydrates, and nearly zero fat or protein.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this margarita as a colorful cocktail centerpiece or try it for your next holiday party. The spicy rim and pickle twist make it truly unforgettable.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What gives this drink its spicy flavor?
The rim is coated with a blend of coarse salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime zest, providing a bold, spicy kick.
- → Can I adjust the tartness of the drink?
Yes, reducing the amount of pickle brine or adjusting the agave syrup sweetness can balance the tartness to your preference.
- → What type of tequila works best here?
Blanco tequila is ideal for its clean, fresh flavor that complements the tart and savory ingredients well.
- → Is there an alternative to dill pickle brine?
Bread-and-butter pickle brine can be used for a sweeter, less tangy variation of the drink.
- → How should the drink be served?
Serve over fresh ice in rocks glasses, garnished with lime wheels, pickle spears, and optional fresh cranberries.