Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cherry Lime Margarita is both sweet and tangy, offering a burst of freshness from the cherries and lime. The rich flavor adds a unique depth to the drink, making it feel indulgent yet light. It’s simple to make, customizable, and perfect for a fun, relaxing time. Whether you’re serving it for a casual gathering or just enjoying a quiet evening, this cocktail is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- ½ cup of the alternative spirit
- ¼ cup triple sec (or orange liqueur)
- ⅓ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- ½ cup fresh cherry juice (or muddled cherries, strained)
- 1-2 tbsp agave syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice
- Coarse salt or sugar (for rimming, optional)
- Lime wedges & fresh cherries (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Glasses:
Run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass. Dip into coarse salt or sugar for a flavorful garnish. - Mix the Margarita:
If using fresh cherries, muddle them in a shaker and strain out the juice. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the alternative spirit, triple sec, lime juice, cherry juice, and agave syrup. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled. - Serve & Garnish:
Fill your prepared glasses with fresh ice. Strain the margarita mixture over the ice, and garnish with a lime wedge and a fresh cherry. - Enjoy:
Sip and enjoy the refreshing flavors of this Cherry Lime Margarita!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2 servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Frozen Version: Blend the ingredients with ice for a frozen margarita variation.
- Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeño or a pinch of chili powder for some heat.
- Mocktail Version: Omit the alcoholic ingredient and top with sparkling water for a refreshing non-alcoholic version.
- Different Fruits: You can swap out cherries for other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or mango for a creative twist.
Storage/Reheating
This margarita is best served fresh, but you can prepare the cherry lime mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just add ice and garnish when ready to serve.
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lime juice?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used if needed.
2. Can I make this margarita in a pitcher for a crowd?
Yes, simply multiply the ingredients and serve in a pitcher for a party. For the best flavor, mix it ahead of time and add ice just before serving.
3. Can I make this margarita without triple sec?
Yes, you can substitute triple sec with orange juice or another citrus liqueur, or simply omit it for a less sweet version.
4. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries, just make sure to thaw and muddle them or blend them into a juice.
5. How do I make the cherry juice?
You can blend fresh cherries and strain them to extract the juice, or simply use store-bought fresh cherry juice.
6. Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely! You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less agave syrup depending on your preference.
7. Can I make this margarita without alcohol?
Yes, simply omit the alcoholic ingredients for a non-alcoholic cherry lime mocktail that is just as refreshing.
8. What type of glass should I use?
A classic margarita glass works well, but you can also serve it in any glass you prefer.
9. Can I use other types of alcohol?
If you prefer a different base, you can experiment with rum or vodka instead of the spirit in the recipe for a unique twist.
10. How do I store leftovers?
It’s best to serve this drink immediately, but you can store the mixture (without ice) in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the fridge.
Conclusion
This Cherry Lime Margarita is the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and refreshing flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just relaxing at home, this vibrant drink adds a fun twist to your beverage selection. Easy to make, refreshing to sip, and totally customizable, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Cherry Lime Margarita
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cherry Lime Margarita is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, with the tartness of lime and sweetness of cherries. It’s a fun, vibrant drink perfect for summer gatherings, BBQs, or whenever you crave something refreshing.
Ingredients
½ cup of the alternative spirit
¼ cup triple sec (or orange liqueur)
⅓ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
½ cup fresh cherry juice (or muddled cherries, strained)
1–2 tbsp agave syrup (adjust to taste)
Ice
Coarse salt or sugar (for rimming, optional)
Lime wedges & fresh cherries (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glasses: Run a lime wedge around the rim of each glass. Dip into coarse salt or sugar for a flavorful garnish.
- Mix the Margarita: If using fresh cherries, muddle them in a shaker and strain out the juice. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the alternative spirit, triple sec, lime juice, cherry juice, and agave syrup. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until chilled.
- Serve & Garnish: Fill your prepared glasses with fresh ice. Strain the margarita mixture over the ice and garnish with a lime wedge and fresh cherry.
- Enjoy: Sip and enjoy the refreshing flavors of this Cherry Lime Margarita!
Notes
- For a frozen version, blend the ingredients with ice for a fun twist on the classic margarita.
- Adjust the sweetness with more or less agave syrup to suit your taste.
- This cocktail can be made without alcohol for a mocktail version; just add sparkling water instead of the spirit.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
