Description
Spicy Pineapple Margaritas are a refreshing and vibrant cocktail featuring the smoky flavor of mezcal or tequila blanco combined with fresh pineapple juice, zesty lime, and a kick of jalapeño heat. Perfectly balanced with a splash of Cointreau and an optional Tajín or salt rim, this drink is a fantastic choice for those who love a spicy twist on a classic margarita.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For One Serving
- 1 1/2 ounces mezcal or tequila blanco
- 1 1/2 ounces pineapple juice (fresh or 100% pure, no added sugar)
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- 3/4 ounce Cointreau (or Grand Marnier/Triple Sec as alternatives)
- 2 to 4 fresh jalapeño slices
- Ice
Optional:
- Rim: Tajín and/or coarse sea salt
- Garnishes: pineapple wedge, pineapple leaf, extra jalapeño slices, lime wedge
Instructions
- Rim the glass (optional): Run a fresh lime wedge around the edge of your glass to moisten it, then dip the rim into a plate containing Tajín, coarse sea salt, or a combination of both for an extra burst of flavor.
- Mix the margarita: In a cocktail shaker or mason jar, combine the mezcal or tequila blanco, pineapple juice, fresh lime juice, Cointreau, and jalapeño slices. Add a handful of ice, cover securely, and shake vigorously for 5 to 10 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
- Serve: Strain the margarita into your prepared glass filled with extra ice. Add garnishes such as a pineapple wedge, pineapple leaf, additional jalapeño slices, or a lime wedge as desired, then enjoy the spicy, refreshing flavors immediately.
Notes
- Pineapple juice: Use either 100% pure pineapple juice (not from concentrate and no added sugars) or freshly squeeze pineapple for the best flavor.
- Cointreau alternatives: Grand Marnier or a quality Triple Sec can be used if Cointreau is unavailable.
- Jalapeño slices: The heat level can vary; start with 1 or 2 slices if sensitive to spice, then add more to taste.
- Pitcher Recipe (8 Servings): Combine 1.5 cups mezcal or tequila blanco, 1.5 cups pineapple juice, 1 cup fresh lime juice, 3/4 cup Cointreau, 16 to 24 jalapeño slices, and ice in a large pitcher. Stir well to combine and serve chilled.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg