Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here! When it comes to cocktails, there are classics, and then there are classics that get a twist that makes them even better. Today, I’m sharing the recipe for the Spiced Pineapple Margarita, which has earned its title as one of the most-saved cocktail recipes out there, and for good reason. It takes a classic margarita and infuses it with the tropical sweetness of pineapple and a surprising kick of spicy heat. It’s a beautifully balanced drink that is perfect for a summer evening, a backyard barbecue, or anytime you want a cocktail that’s both refreshing and exciting.
I first tried this drink at a trendy Mexican restaurant, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of sweet pineapple and a spicy finish was an absolute game-changer. I knew I had to recreate it at home. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s simple enough for anyone to make, but the flavors feel elevated and complex. It’s the perfect drink for a party, and it’s a great way to impress your friends without being a professional mixologist.
Why I Love This Recipe
What I love most about this Spiced Pineapple Margarita is the perfect harmony of flavors. The fresh pineapple juice provides a bright, tropical sweetness that is a great contrast to the tart lime and the smooth tequila. But the real star of the show is the spicy kick. Whether you get it from a chili-lime salt on the rim, a jalapeño simple syrup, or a pinch of cayenne in the drink, that heat is what makes this margarita truly special. It’s a sweet and spicy sipper that’s incredibly addictive.
This cocktail is also a fantastic alternative to your usual margarita. It’s a great way to add a little flair to your drink menu, and it’s perfect for a party because you can easily make a large batch. For another fun drink to serve to a crowd, my Refreshing Strawberry Mojito Recipe: Perfect for a Sunny Day is always a huge hit.
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila (blanco or reposado)
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz agave or simple syrup
- Jalapeño slices (for muddling or garnish)
- Chili-lime salt or Tajín (for the rim)
- Ice
- Pineapple wedge or slice of jalapeño (for garnish)
Swaps and Notes
- Tequila: Use a good quality tequila. Blanco tequila will give you a crisper, more agave-forward flavor, while reposado will add a little more depth and a hint of oak.
- Agave or Simple Syrup: Agave is a natural pairing for tequila, but simple syrup works just as well. You can even make your own jalapeño simple syrup by simmering water, sugar, and sliced jalapeños until the sugar dissolves.
- Spice: The spice level is completely up to you. For a milder kick, just rim the glass with chili-lime salt. For a spicier drink, muddle a couple of jalapeño slices in your cocktail shaker.
- Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice is always best, but a good quality store-bought pineapple juice works just fine.
Directions
- Prep the Glass: Run a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass or a margarita glass. Dip the rim into the chili-lime salt or Tajín to coat it evenly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the tequila, pineapple juice, fresh lime juice, and agave or simple syrup.
- Add the Spice: If you want a spicy kick in the drink, add 1-2 thin slices of jalapeño to the shaker.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds, or until the shaker is frosty on the outside.
- Strain and Garnish: Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, a fresh lime wheel, or a slice of jalapeño.
Tips for Success
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh pineapple and lime juice will make a huge difference in the flavor of this cocktail.
- Balance the Flavors: Taste the cocktail before you pour it. If it’s too sweet, add a little more lime juice. If it’s too tart, add a little more agave.
- Chill Your Glass: For the best results, place your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before you prep the rim. A cold glass keeps your drink colder for longer.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Spiced Pineapple Margarita is a great cocktail to serve on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods. The sweet and spicy flavors are a perfect match for Mexican food. You can serve it alongside a fun, interactive meal like my This Walking Taco Bar is My Favorite No-Fuss Way to Feed a Crowd for a complete party experience.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Please note: This is an approximation and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
This is a delicious treat, so it’s best enjoyed responsibly.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Cocktails are always best when made fresh. However, if you’re serving a crowd, you can pre-batch the mixture (without the ice and jalapeño) in a pitcher. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and shake it with ice just before serving.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you’re a fan of delicious cocktails, you’ll love some of my other recipes. For a classic that’s always a winner, my Classic Margarita Recipe: Easy and Delicious is a must-try. For another great drink, my recipe for The Slippery Drank is My Favorite Sweet Sipper for Dessert-Inspired Vibes is a fun option. And for a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage, my This Blueberry Lemonade is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days is a winner.
Final Thoughts
This Spiced Pineapple Margarita is a cocktail that truly has it all—it’s sweet, spicy, and perfectly balanced. It’s a great way to add a little bit of fun and flair to your next gathering.
I’d love to know what your favorite unique cocktail is! Let me know in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow me for more delicious recipes. Cheers!
Spiced Pineapple Margarita: The Most Saved Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila (blanco or reposado)
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 2 oz agave or simple syrup
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- ice cubes
- lime wedges for garnish
- salt for rimming the glass (optional)
Instructions
- Rim the glass with lime juice and dip it into salt (if desired).
- In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, pineapple juice, fresh lime juice, agave or simple syrup, and chili powder or cayenne pepper (if using).
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with lime wedges and serve immediately.
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