Cocktails & Drinks Festive & Seasonal

Christmas Cranberry Margaritas

Name: Christmas Cranberry Margaritas
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 2 cocktails
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 2 part Tequila; 2 part Cranberry Juice; 2 part Lime Juice; 1 part Triple Sec Liqueur; Ice; Tajin; Salt; Dried Lemon or Lime (to garnish)

A festive cocktail combining tequila, cranberry juice, and fresh lime with a Tajin salt rim. Vibrant, zesty, and perfectly balanced for Christmas celebrations.

By Ricky Robinson • Updated December 26, 2023

This cocktail has been a favourite in our house this Christmas. It brings together the sharp tartness of cranberry juice with the brightness of fresh lime, balanced by smooth tequila and a touch of triple sec. The drink is refreshing and lively, with that perfect combination of sweet and sour that makes it easy to enjoy.

To get started, prepare your glass with a rim of salt and Tajin, a zesty Mexican seasoning that adds an extra kick from the first sip. Simply run a lime wedge around the rim and dip it into the mixture. It sounds simple, but that rim makes a real difference to the overall flavour.

The Tajin and salt rim adds a savoury, spicy edge that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.

The cocktail itself is straightforward to make. You combine tequila, triple sec, freshly squeezed lime juice, and cranberry juice in a cocktail shaker with ice, give it a good shake, and pour it into your prepared glass over fresh ice.

Christmas Cranberry Margaritas recipe image

The cranberry juice gives the drink its vibrant red colour and a lovely tartness that works well against the citrus and tequila. It is a proper festive drink without being overly sweet or cloying. The balance of flavours is key here: you get the sharpness from the lime, the fruity tartness from the cranberry, and the warmth from the tequila, all rounded out with a hint of orange from the triple sec.

For the finishing touch, garnish with a slice of dried lemon or lime. It adds a bit of visual appeal and a subtle citrus aroma that enhances the drinking experience. This cocktail works well for those who like their drinks with a bit of character and a proper kick, yet still appreciate the nuances of well-balanced flavours. It is ideal for Christmas gatherings or any occasion where you want something a bit special without too much fuss. The ingredients are simple, but the result is impressive.