Classic Margarita Recipe

front view of a Classic Margarita in a margarita glass with Tajin rim

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Classic Margarita Recipe

This classic margarita recipe is bright, refreshing, and perfectly balanced with fresh lime juice, smooth blanco tequila, and a touch of orange liqueur. It’s an easy, homemade margarita that delivers bar-quality flavor in minutes, perfect for happy hour or any Latin-inspired meal.

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Cocktail

Cuisine: American, Latin, Spanish

Servings:

Calories: 282kcal

Author: Ebony Robinson

Equipment

Ingredients

2 oz Blanco Tequila
0.75 oz Cointreau or Triple Sec
1 oz Simple Syrup
1 oz Fresh Lime Juice

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Start by preparing your glass. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it into margarita salt, tajín, or sugar. Set aside.
Fill a cocktail shaker with blanco tequila, triple sec or Cointreau, simple syrup, and fresh lime juice. Add ice then shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled.
Strain the margarita into your prepared glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lime wedge or lime wheels, then serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Below are a few tips to make the ultimate margarita:

Use fresh lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives your margarita the best flavor, bottled juice won’t deliver the same brightness.

Choose a good tequila: Since tequila is the base of this classic cocktail, using a quality blanco tequila will make a noticeable difference.

Chill your glass: For an extra refreshing margarita, place your glass in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Make it ahead: You can mix the margarita base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, just shake with ice right before serving.

For a smoother finish: Use Cointreau instead of basic triple sec for a more refined orange flavor.

Adjust to your taste: Prefer a sweeter cocktail? Add a little more simple syrup. Like it tart? Reduce the sweetness and let the citrus shine.

Nutrition