Save It A vibrant twist on the classic margarita, this cocktail balances tart cranberry and tangy pickle brine with tequila, finished with a fiery, spiced rim for an unforgettable flavor kick.
I first experimented with this combo for a friendsgiving and it quickly became our signature drink. The vivid color and punchy taste always get guests talking.
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Ingredients
- Blanco tequila: 3 oz (90 ml)
- Cranberry juice: 2 oz (60 ml, unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- Fresh lime juice: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Pickle brine: 1 oz (30 ml, from dill pickles)
- Agave syrup or simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15 ml, adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes: as needed
- Coarse salt: 1 tbsp (for spicy rim)
- Chili powder: 1 tsp (for spicy rim)
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp (for spicy rim)
- Lime zest: Zest of 1/2 lime (for spicy rim)
- Lime wedge: for rimming glass
- Lime wheels: 2, for garnish
- Dill pickle spears: 2 small, for garnish
- Fresh cranberries: optional garnish
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Instructions
- Make the spicy rim:
- In a shallow dish, mix the salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime zest.
- Prepare glasses:
- Rub a lime wedge around the rims of two rocks glasses. Dip rims into spice mixture to coat evenly.
- Mix cocktail:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add tequila, cranberry juice, lime juice, pickle brine, and agave syrup.
- Shake:
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Serve:
- Fill prepared glasses with fresh ice. Strain margarita mixture evenly into each glass.
- Garnish:
- Top each drink with a lime wheel, a pickle spear, and a few fresh cranberries if desired.
Save It My family loves to test new cocktails every holiday, and this cranberry-pickle margarita always brings laughter and requests for the recipe.
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Required Tools
Cocktail shaker, jigger or measuring cup, citrus juicer, shallow dish for rim, strainer, rocks glasses
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens. Check store-bought juices or brine for cross-contamination risk.
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 180 calories, 0 g fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 0 g protein
Save It 
Enjoy this spirited margarita for your next gathering, and let its bright flavors be the toast of the evening.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you prepare the spicy rim?
Mix coarse salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, and lime zest. Rub a lime wedge around the glass rims, then dip them into the spice mixture for an even coating.
- → What type of tequila works best?
A blanco tequila is ideal for its clean, bright flavors that complement the tart cranberry and tangy pickle brine.
- → Can I adjust the tanginess of the drink?
Yes, reducing the amount of pickle brine softens the tang, and adjusting agave syrup levels modifies the sweetness.
- → What garnishes enhance this drink?
Decorate with lime wheels, dill pickle spears, and optionally fresh cranberries for added visual and flavor appeal.
- → Is this suitable for special diets?
This mix is vegan and gluten-free, containing no major allergens, though ingredient labels should be checked for cross-contamination.
