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Spicy Margarita Recipe

Spicy Margarita Recipe with Jalapeño

This spicy margarita recipe combines classic tangy lime flavor with a fiery jalapeño kick that transforms your regular cocktail hour. Perfect for summer entertaining, this jalapeño margarita balances sweet, sour, and spicy flavors in under 15 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Infusion Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 195
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cocktail Ingredients
  • 1/4 whole jalapeño pepper sliced, plus more for garnish
  • 2 ounces tequila blanco silver tequila
  • 1 ounce orange liqueur Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or triple sec
  • 1 ounce fresh lime juice plus lime wedge for rim
  • 1/2 ounce agave nectar or simple syrup
  • 1 cup ice
Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Tajín seasoning or kosher salt for rim
  • 2-3 slices jalapeño pepper for garnish

Equipment

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Muddler
  • Rocks glass
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Small plate

Method
 

  1. Prepare the glass rim: Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass. Fill a small plate with Tajín or kosher salt. Dip the glass rim into the seasoning to coat. Fill the glass with ice.
  2. Muddle the jalapeño: Place jalapeño slices in the bottom of your cocktail shaker. Use a muddler or back of a spoon to gently crush the jalapeño to release oils and heat.
  3. Add liquid ingredients: Pour tequila, orange liqueur, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar into the shaker with the muddled jalapeño.
  4. Shake the cocktail: Fill the shaker with ice, cover tightly, and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well chilled.
  5. Strain and serve: Using a fine mesh strainer, pour the margarita into your prepared glass over fresh ice.
  6. Garnish and enjoy: Top with fresh jalapeño slices and serve immediately while cold.

Notes

Heat Control Tips: Start with less jalapeño and add more to taste. Serrano peppers can be substituted for extra heat.
Customization: Try simple syrup instead of agave, or add fresh fruit like pineapple for tropical notes.
Make-Ahead: This recipe is best served fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead of time.
Serving Suggestion: Pairs perfectly with Mexican appetizers like guacamole, salsa, and tortilla chips.