A bright, sparkling holiday twist on the classic margarita
If holiday cheer had a flavor, it would taste exactly like this: tart cranberries, fresh lime, a touch of winter sweetness, and the smooth warmth of tequila all coming together in one shimmering glass. Festive Cranberry Margaritas are a stunning way to bring holiday sparkle to the table—bright red, refreshing, and effortlessly celebratory.
Perfect for gatherings, or any night you want the magic of the season in a cocktail.
Why You’ll Love This Margarita
Gorgeous holiday color the deep ruby hue looks amazing in photos
Easy to batch great for parties and pitchers
Makes 2 margaritas
Ingredients
- 3 oz El Jimador blanco
- 2 oz cranberry juice (100% juice or cocktail depending on sweetness preference)
- 1 oz orange liqueur (Triple Sec or Cointreau)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup or agave nectar (adjust to taste)
- Optional: splash of sparkling water for brightness
- Ice
Garnish
- Fresh cranberries
- Lime wheels
- Salt or sugar for the rim (sugar looks extra festive)
- Optional: rosemary sprig for a holiday touch
Instructions
- Prepare Your Glasses
Run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass. Dip into sugar (or salt, if you prefer).
Tip: Coarse sugar gives a pretty, frosted sparkle.
- Shake Up the Margarita
In a cocktail shaker, add:
- tequila
- cranberry juice
- orange liqueur
- fresh lime
- simple syrup
- a generous handful of ice
- Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.
- Pour and Garnish
Strain into your rimmed glasses filled with fresh ice.
Add a lime wheel, a few floating cranberries, or a tiny rosemary sprig for a festive vibe.
- Optional Twist: Holiday Sparkle
Top with 1–2 oz sparkling water for a lighter, bubbly version.
Tips for the Holidays
Batch It: Multiply the recipe by 6 and mix in a pitcher. Add ice to individual glasses, not the pitcher, so it stays bold and flavorful.
Make Sugared Cranberries: Roll fresh cranberries in simple syrup and then sugar they look like little frosted ornaments.
For a richer flavor: Add 1 oz white cranberry juice for a softer, rounder sweetness.
