DIY Cranberry-Pickle Margarita (Printable Version)

Tart cranberry and tangy pickle blend with tequila, accented by a fiery spiced rim.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cocktail

01 - 3 fl oz blanco tequila
02 - 2 fl oz unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberry juice
03 - 1 fl oz fresh lime juice
04 - 1 fl oz dill pickle brine
05 - 0.5 fl oz agave syrup or simple syrup, adjustable
06 - Ice cubes

→ Spicy Rim

07 - 1 tbsp coarse salt
08 - 1 tsp chili powder
09 - 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
10 - Zest of half a lime
11 - Lime wedge for rimming glass

→ Garnish

12 - 2 lime wheels
13 - 2 small dill pickle spears
14 - Fresh cranberries (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Combine coarse salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime zest in a shallow dish.
02 - Rub lime wedge around the rims of two rocks glasses, then dip them into the spice mixture to coat evenly.
03 - Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add tequila, cranberry juice, lime juice, pickle brine, and agave syrup.
04 - Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well chilled.
05 - Fill prepared glasses with fresh ice, strain margarita evenly into each glass.
06 - Adorn each glass with a lime wheel, a pickle spear, and optionally fresh cranberries.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Unique mix of tart, tangy, and spicy flavors
  • Easy to prepare in just 10 minutes
02 -
  • This cocktail contains no major allergens, but check for additives in store-bought pickle brine and cranberry juice.
  • Pairs well with spicy snacks or fresh guacamole.
03 -
  • Reduce pickle brine for a milder, less tangy drink.
  • Try different pickle brines like bread-and-butter for new flavor profiles.
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