The Best Tequila Cocktails to Make
The Best Tequila Cocktails to Make
Hey Tequila lover! Here's a list of the best cocktails you can make with tequila. From the classic Margarita to a new twist on an old favorite, these popular tequila cocktails are sure to please.
For ages, people have been enjoying cocktails, and there's no doubt that tequila makes some of the best cocktails around. Whether you're looking for something new and exciting to drink, or want to know what mixes well with tequila, or just want to enjoy a classic tequila cocktail, there are plenty of recipes to choose from.
To help you get started, I've rounded up a few of the best tequila cocktails that you can make at home. So grab a bottle of tequila and "let’s get to mixing, so we can get to sipping!"
Can’t get enough cocktail recipes? Be sure to try my Spicy Jalapeño Margarita, Blueberry Basil Margarita, and Lemon Drop Martini too!
Let's Talk About Tequila
Tequila is a type of liquor spirit that is made from the blue agave plant. The agave plant is native to Mexico and has been used to make liquor for centuries. Tequila is typically made in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, and must be made with at least 51% agave. Tequila can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a mixed drink.
Types of Tequila
There are four main kinds of tequila: Blanco, reposado, añejo, and extra añejo.
Blanco tequila is the purest form of tequila and is made by distilling the agave plant just once. It typically has a clear appearance and a strong, clean flavor.
Reposado tequila is aged in oak barrels for at least two months and up to a year. This type of aged tequila has a light golden color and a smooth, mellow flavor.
Añejo tequila is aged in oak barrels for at least one year and up to three years. This tequila has a dark amber color and a rich, complex flavor. In regards to Anejo tequila cocktail recipes, this expression of tequila is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks.
Extra Añejo tequila is aged for three years or longer, resulting in an even richer and more complex smoother flavor. When it comes to Extra Anejo tequila drink recipes, just like her slightly younger sister, this expression is best experienced neat or on the rocks too.
The Best Tequila Cocktail Recipes
Get ready to throw away your pre-made mixers and graduate from 2 ingredient tequila drinks. Here are just a few of the best Tequila cocktails you can add to your home bartender's arsenal:
A spicy jalapeno margarita is a great way to add some heat to your cocktails. It's the perfect upgrade to a Cadillac margarita for those who love a little subtle spicy kick in their drinks.
Ingredients: Jalapeño peppers, Silver Tequila, Agave nectar, and Triple sec
A watermelon margarita is a perfect drink for summertime. It's refreshing and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness from the watermelon and a kick of tequila.
Ingredients: Fresh watermelon, Tequila Blanco, Triple sec, and lime juice
One of those unique tequila cocktails that are perfect for summer, the blueberry basil margarita must be tasted to be believed. It's got the sweetness of blueberries, the savory taste of basil, and finishes with a tang from the tequila.
Ingredients: Fresh blueberries, Fresh basil, Blanco Tequila, and agave syrup
When it comes to classic craft tequila cocktails, the Tequila Sour is a quintessential iconic cocktail. The Tequila Sour combines the smooth flavor of tequila with the bright citrus notes of lemon and lime and is topped with a maraschino cherry. This classic drink is impressive yet simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients: Fresh citrus juices, Reposado Tequila, a few dashes of Angostura bitters, and egg white
Spanish for "cucumber", the El Pepino is a super refreshing cocktail twist on the classic margarita. Its light, crisp body makes it perfect for summer days, or any day you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients: Cucumber, orange liqueur, Tequila, and basil
Have you had an Italian Margarita before? If not, you'll definitely want to try this delicious easy tequila cocktail recipe! Amaretto liqueur provides flavors of almonds and honey, while lime juice and tequila give this drink its distinctive sweet and tangy taste.
Ingredients: Amaretto liqueur, Tequila, orange juice, and lime juice
Credit: Supergolden Bakes
Aperitini
This is a sophisticated but delicious mix of Campari, Aperol, and Tequila with a Prosecco float. It's perfect for happy hour or as a pre-dinner bubbly cocktail.
Ingredients: Tequila, Aperol, and Campari
Credit: Supergolden Bakes
Beergarita
This refreshing beverage combines a classic Margarita with ice-cold beer for the ideal summer drink.
Ingredients: Agave syrup, Tequila, lime, and beer
Credit: Real Housemoms
Mexican Sunset
A new spin on a classic cocktail, Tequila Sunrise. The Mexican Sunset is a delectable tequila drink that makes you feel like you're on holiday in Mexico!
Ingredients: Amaretto, Tequila, Peach Schnapps, and pineapple juice
Credit: Natural Deets
Sparkling Pomegranate and Tequila Cocktail
This pomegranate and orange-infused tequila drink isn't too strong or too sweet. Perfect for sipping and delicious enough to convert non-tequila drinkers!
Ingredients: Pomegranate juice, Tequila, mandarin orange, and seltzer water or sparkling water
Credit: The Foodie and the Fix
Honey Paloma Cocktail
Calling all grapefruit lovers, this tequila cocktail is definitely for you! The Honey Paloma Cocktail is a delicious drink that combines the sweetness of honey with the tartness of grapefruit soda, and grapefruit juice then finishes strong with the smoothness of tequila.
Ingredients: Honey syrup, Tequila, grapefruit soda water, and grapefruit juice
Credit: The Hurried Hostess
Grapefruit Paloma Fizz
Light and tart, the Grapefruit Paloma Fizz is one of the best tequila cocktails to enjoy on a hot summer day. With just a few simple ingredients, this easy mixed drink recipe comes together in no time.
Ingredients: Pink grapefruit juice, Tequila, lime juice, and club soda
Credit: Sense and Edibility
Chispa Margaritas
Similar to a Cadillac Margarita, Chispa Margaritas are perfect for tequila lovers who want a sophisticated twist on a classic cocktail with a hint of tangy lime.
Ingredients: Fresh lime juice, orange juice, Tequila, and agave sweetener
Credit: The Crooked Carrot
Cilantro Lime Margarita
Featuring fresh cilantro and lime juice, this margarita is perfect for anyone who loves fresh, bright flavors. Tequila cocktails don't get much better than this!
Ingredients: Cilantro, Tequila, and simple syrup
Credit: Three Little Ferns
Frozen Guava Margarita
The perfect refresher on a hot day! The sweet and tangy flavors of guava and lime will quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds, all in one icy and refreshing sip.
Ingredients: Guava nectar, Tequila, and Triple Sec
Credit: Lovely Silvia
Frozen Mango Margaritas
Skip the frozen margaritas from the chain restaurant and make your own at home with fresh ingredients. The combination of mango and tequila is undeniably delicious and perfect for summer sipping. Plus, it's easy to make a big batch for a party.
Ingredients: Mango, Tequila, lime juice, and Chamoy
Credit: By Gabriella
Grapefruit Rose Margarita
Made with rosewater and tangy grapefruit juice, this tequila cocktail is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in something a little bit different.
Ingredients: Rosewater, Tequila, grapefruit juice, and Cointreau
Credit: Makin It With Marin
Lavender Meyer Lemon Margarita
The sweet and floral lavender pairs perfectly with the tart Meyer lemon juice in this delicious margarita.
Ingredients: Lavender syrup, fresh lemon juice, Tequila, and, Curacao
Credit: Home Cooked Roots
Orange Hibiscus Margarita
The Orange Hibiscus Margarita is perfect for those who want to enjoy a margarita but want something a little different than the standard. Its refreshing citrus flavor is the perfect way to cool down, and the hibiscus tea gives it a rich ruby color.
Ingredients: Hibiscus tea, Tequila, simple syrup, and orange juice
Credit: Superman Cooks
Tangy Blood Orange Margarita
Skip the margarita mix and make this Blood Orange Margarita from scratch instead. With tangy tequila and fresh blood orange juice, this cocktail is bright and tart with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients: Blood orange juice, Tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur
Credit: Dash of Jazz
Passion Fruit Margaritas
Simple yet delicious, Passion Fruit Margaritas are the perfect drink to whip up when you are jonesing for something refreshing and tasty. Made with tequila and fresh fruit juice, these margaritas are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making them a must-try for anyone who loves tequila cocktails.
Ingredients: Passion fruit juice, Tequila, and triple sec
Credit: Garlic & Zest
Quenching Hibiscus Margarita
By the pitcher or by the glass, this Hibiscus Margarita is perfect for any party! Featuring sweet hibiscus syrup and vibrant tequila, this drink is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Ingredients: Hibiscus simple syrup, Grand Marnier, Tequila, and lime juice
Credit: Toast From the Host
Strawberry Coconut Lemon Margarita
You had me at strawberry, coconut, and lemon. Margaritas are always a good idea, and this combination is always the makings of a perfect warm-weather drink.
Ingredients: Cream de Coconut, Tequila, Strawberry puree, and Grand Marnier
Credit: Will Cook For Smiles
White Peach Margarita
A White Peach Margarita is the perfect drink to order when you're looking for something refreshing and fruity. It's easy to make, featuring tequila and fresh peaches, and boasts a smooth, delicious flavor that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients: Peaches, Tequila Blanco, and Peach schnapps
More Cocktails, Please!
🍭🔥 This easy spicy margarita recipe is just the perfect mix of sweet & jalapeño
🍋 This easy lemon drop martini recipe is the perfect simple yummy drink
🍉 The perfect fresh frozen watermelon margarita to share at your next summer party
🍑 A relaxing southern bourbon peach tea
💓 The kinky lady is the melon infused tropical cocktail drink you’ve been waiting for.
Thank You
And there you have it! Some delicious and refreshing tequila-based drinks are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo, hosting a party, or just want something different to drink, these delicious recipes are sure to please. So go ahead and grab your cocktail shaker and "let’s get to mixing, so we can get to sipping!”
Did you find any new favorite tequila cocktails? If you give these recipes a try, please let me know what you think – or better yet, leave a comment below or share photos of your own DAMN GOOD cocktail recreation on Instagram and Facebook using the hashtag #damngoodcocktails and tagging me @thisismeldrake. Never miss a DAMN GOOD cocktail recipe and sign up for my newsletter. You can also find me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter too.
Cheers!
-XOXO (as always)
Mel D.
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*Originally published in May 2020, this post has been updated by Mel Drake to add the new sections of "Let's Talk About Tequila", "Types of Tequila", "The Best Tequila Cocktail Recipes", as well as a title change and additional tequila cocktail recipes were added that weren't included in the original post. The post has been updated with structural and grammatical changes as well.
