Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe air is crisp, and festive decorations twinkle all around—there’s something magical about the holiday season that invites us to gather and celebrate. This is where my Mistletoe Margarita comes in, a delightful twist on traditional Christmas cocktails that promises to elevate your holiday festivities. Combining smooth tequila with vibrant cranberry juice and a splash of zesty lime, this drink not only offers a refreshing taste but also brings a stunning presentation to your seasonal celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this cocktail is quick to prepare and ideal for both spirited and non-alcoholic indulgence. Want to impress your guests with a drink that doubles as a festive centerpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe and get sipping! Why is this Mistletoe Margarita special? Festive Vibes: This cocktail captures the essence of the holiday season, making any gathering feel extra special. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a breeze to whip up a batch for your guests. Versatile Options: Enjoy it as a cocktail or easily transform it into a mocktail by swapping out the tequila and triple sec—perfect for everyone at your party! Stunning Presentation: The sugar-frosted rim and vibrant garnishes make it a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The delightful blend of cranberry and lime balances sweetness and tartness, appealing to all taste preferences. Elevate your festive gatherings with this delightful drink! For more delicious holiday flavors, check out my Refreshing Peach Lemonade or the savory Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Christmas Cocktails Get a Refresh – Mistletoe Margarita Ingredients For the Cocktail Tequila – The star of the show, bringing smoothness and strength; you can use tequila blanco or reposado. Triple Sec – Infuses the drink with sweet notes and a hint of orange; if you’re looking for less sugar, feel free to reduce the amount. Fresh Lime Juice – Adds a tart zing that perfectly balances sweetness; always opt for fresh for the most vibrant flavor. Cranberry Juice – Gives the cocktail its festive color and bright fruity taste; use 100% juice for a healthier option. Simple Syrup – Sweetens the mix; adjust according to your taste preferences, especially if using tart cranberry juice. For Garnish Fresh Cranberries – Perfect for garnish, adding both beauty and a pop of flavor; you can also freeze them for extra chill. Lime Wedge – Enhances aroma and freshness when served alongside the drink; a squeeze can amplify the flavor profile. Fresh Mint Leaves – Not just for looks, these leaves contribute a refreshing aroma; slap them before adding to release essential oils. Coarse Salt or Sugar – Ideal for rimming the glass; sugar adds sweetness while salt contrasts beautifully with the drink’s flavors. For Serving Ice Cubes – Keeps your cocktail perfectly chilled; crushed ice is a fun option for a slushy texture. With these Mistletoe Margarita ingredients on hand, you’ll be all set to impress your guests with a festive cocktail that’s both delicious and visually stunning! Cheers to holiday cheer! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cocktails Get a Refresh with the Mistletoe Margarita Step 1: Prepare the Glass Start by rimming a chilled cocktail glass to elevate your Mistletoe Margarita. Take a lime wedge and run it around the rim of the glass, ensuring a nice coating area. Then, dip the rim into coarse sugar or salt, letting it create an even crust. Set the glass aside, and admire your beautiful preparation. Step 2: Fill the Shaker with Ice Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it halfway with ice cubes. This step is crucial for achieving a well-chilled drink. The ice helps to not only cool down the ingredients but also adds a slight dilution, perfect for balancing flavors. Ensure you have enough ice to keep your Margarita icy cold when serving. Step 3: Add the Ingredients Into the shaker filled with ice, pour in the tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup. Use a jigger for precise measurements to guarantee the perfect strength and sweetness in your Mistletoe Margarita. With all the ingredients gathered, you’re just a shake away from a festive delight! Step 4: Shake Vigorously Seal the shaker tightly and shake it vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. You want to feel the shaker getting cold to the touch—this ensures that your cocktail is properly chilled and mixed. The combination of flavors will meld beautifully, creating the perfect festive drink. Step 5: Fill the Prepared Glass Open the shaker and fill the rimmed glass with fresh ice cubes, leaving enough space for the drink. Ensure the ice is prepped to maintain the ideal serving temperature. This step enhances the presentation and keeps your Mistletoe Margarita nice and cool for sipping. Step 6: Strain the Mixture Carefully strain the cocktail mixture from the shaker into your prepared glass, allowing it to flow over the ice smoothly. The vibrant color of the Mistletoe Margarita will catch your eye, creating an inviting drink. Make sure to strain well to keep any ice shards out of the final presentation. Step 7: Garnish Beautifully For the finishing touch, garnish your Mistletoe Margarita with fresh cranberries, a lime wedge on the rim, and a sprig of mint. These vibrant garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but provide aromatic hints that invite you to take a sip. Your holiday cocktail is now complete! Step 8: Serve Immediately Present your stunning Mistletoe Margarita to guests right away, allowing everyone to indulge in the festive spirit. Sharing this delightful drink during your holiday gatherings creates lasting memories. Enjoy the beautiful mix of flavors and the joy it brings to your celebrations! Make Ahead Options These festive Mistletoe Margaritas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, saving you precious time during busy holiday gatherings! You can prepare the cocktail mixture (tequila, triple sec, lime juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup) up to 24 hours in advance; just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can pre-rim your glasses with sugar or salt, so they are ready to go when it’s time to serve. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply shake the prepped mixture with ice, strain it into the rimmed glasses filled with fresh ice, and garnish with cranberries and mint—your guests will be delighted with the quick yet beautiful presentation! What to Serve with Mistletoe Margarita The holidays are all about celebrating with family and friends, and pairing your Mistletoe Margarita with delicious bites will create an unforgettable experience. Cheese Platter: A mix of creamy brie and sharp cheddar balances the refreshing notes of the cocktail while inviting guests to nibble. Pair with crackers or slices of artisanal bread for a delightful spread. Festive Shrimp Cocktail: The zesty flavors of shrimp cocktail with tangy cocktail sauce resonate beautifully with the zesty lime in your margarita, creating a harmonious seafood pairing. Stuffed Mini Peppers: These vibrant bites, filled with cream cheese and herbs, provide a burst of flavor that complements the Margarita’s sweetness while adding a colorful touch to your table. Holiday Charcuterie Board: A stunning arrangement of cured meats, nuts, and fruits offers a variety of textures and flavors that resonate with the cocktails’ festive spirit. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Indulge your guests with these sweet delights— the strawberries’ juiciness wonderfully contrasts the rich notes of tequila, making them a delectable festive treat. Cranberry Lime Sorbet: A refreshing palate cleanser that echoes the Mistletoe Margarita’s flavors—serve it as a light dessert to cap off the meal beautifully. Sparkling Water: Provide a refreshing, non-alcoholic option that allows guests to enjoy the party ambiance while cleansing their palates between sips of that festive cocktail. Elevating your seasonal gatherings is a breeze with a thoughtful pairing menu alongside your Mistletoe Margarita—cheers to unforgettable moments! How to Store and Freeze Mistletoe Margarita Fridge: Store any leftover Mistletoe Margarita in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a gentle shake before serving to recombine flavors. Freezer: If you want to freeze for later enjoyment, pour the cocktail mixture into ice cube trays, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. Enjoy within a month for the best taste. Reheating: For a quick refresh, let frozen cubes thaw in the fridge, then blend into a slushy version of your Mistletoe Margarita! Garnishes: Prepare fresh garnishes in advance and keep them in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. This way, you’re all set for an impromptu festive gathering! Christmas Cocktails Get a Refresh with Variations Feel free to customize your Mistletoe Margarita with these fun twists and substitutions, making it your own festive creation. Mocktail Version: Replace tequila and triple sec with more cranberry juice and a touch of orange juice for a refreshing non-alcoholic sipper. This way, everyone can enjoy the flavors without the alcohol! Pomegranate Twist: Swap out cranberry juice for pomegranate juice to create a uniquely rich and tart drink. The jewel-toned color adds a lovely festive flair! Spicy Kick: Mix in a splash of jalapeño juice or a few slices of fresh jalapeño while shaking for a zesty surprise. This will surely impress guests who enjoy a bit of heat in their cocktails! Fruity Fusion: Blend in other fruit juices, such as orange or pineapple, to create a tropical vibe. Each combination will offer a fresh and delightful take on the classic Mistletoe Margarita. Herbal Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or basil leaves to the shaker when mixing to introduce an aromatic depth. The herbal notes will elevate your drink beyond the ordinary! Sugary Alternatives: Experiment with flavored sugars for rimming your glass, such as cinnamon or vanilla sugar, for a deliciously sweet twist that complements the holiday spices! Frozen Treat: Blend the ingredients with ice to create a frozen Mistletoe Margarita, perfect for a warm holiday gathering. Sip on this slushy delight while enjoying your festive décor! Fruity Garnishes: In addition to cranberries, consider garnishing with seasonal fruits, like orange slices or even a sprig of rosemary for a charming touch. This not only enhances appearance but also adds fresh aroma. With these simple variations, your Mistletoe Margarita is bound to be a hit at your holiday gatherings. And if you’re looking for more festive inspiration, be sure to check out my mouthwatering recipe for Burrata Brown Cherries or treat yourself to some Smashed Potatoes with Garlic Parmesan. Cheers, and happy mixing! Expert Tips for Mistletoe Margarita Chill Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the tequila and juices, are well-chilled for the best experience. A warm cocktail can mask its vibrant flavors. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before serving. If it’s too tart, add more simple syrup gradually until you find the perfect balance for your Mistletoe Margarita. Rim To Impress: When rimming the glass, make sure to cover it sufficiently with salt or sugar. An uneven rim could detract from the experience—beauty matters too! Garnish Creatively: Get creative with garnishes! Adding a few frozen cranberries not only enhances taste but also keeps the drink cool—plus, they look fantastic. Mocktail Magic: For a non-alcoholic option, replace tequila and triple sec with additional cranberry juice and a splash of orange juice. This version ensures everyone can join in the festive fun! Christmas Cocktails Get a Refresh with Festive Mistletoe Margarita Recipe FAQs How do I select the best cranberry juice for my Mistletoe Margarita? Absolutely! Look for 100% cranberry juice with no added sugars for the most authentic flavor and vibrant color. Avoid cranberry cocktail blends, as they often contain high fructose corn syrup which can alter the taste of your festive drink. What is the best way to store leftover Mistletoe Margarita? Leftover Mistletoe Margarita can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a gentle shake before serving to mix the ingredients again, as separation can occur. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste! Can I freeze Mistletoe Margarita for later use? Yes, you can! To freeze your Mistletoe Margarita, pour the cocktail mixture into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag for easy storage. They are best enjoyed within a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let the cubes thaw in the fridge, then blend them into a refreshing slushy version. What should I do if my cocktail turns out too tart? No worries! If your Mistletoe Margarita is too tart, simply add more simple syrup to balance the flavors. Start with a half teaspoon and shake again to incorporate fully. Taste after each adjustment until you find the perfect balance of sweetness! Is this Mistletoe Margarita safe for kids or those avoiding alcohol? Very! For a delightful mocktail version, replace the tequila and triple sec with additional cranberry juice and a splash of orange juice. Adjust the sweetness with simple syrup to taste. It’s a fun and festive drink that everyone can enjoy, ensuring no one feels left out during your holiday celebrations! Christmas Cocktails Get a Refresh with Festive Mistletoe Margarita Get into the festive spirit with the Mistletoe Margarita, a refreshing twist on Christmas cocktails. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 10 minutes mins Servings: 4 cocktailsCourse: DrinksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cocktail2 oz Tequila Tequila blanco or reposado1 oz Triple Sec Adjust for less sweetness1 oz Fresh Lime Juice Use fresh for vibrant flavor3 oz Cranberry Juice 100% juice recommended1 oz Simple Syrup Adjust sweetness to tasteFor Garnish1/4 cup Fresh Cranberries Use for garnish, can freeze1 slice Lime Wedge Enhances aroma and freshness5 leaves Fresh Mint Leaves Slap before adding to release oils1 tbsp Coarse Salt or Sugar For rimming the glassFor Serving1 cup Ice Cubes For chilling the cocktail Equipment Cocktail shakerJiggerChilled Cocktail Glass Method PreparationStart by rimming a chilled cocktail glass with a lime wedge and dip in coarse sugar or salt.Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.Pour in the tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, cranberry juice, and simple syrup.Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until cold.Fill the rimmed glass with fresh ice cubes.Strain the cocktail mixture into your prepared glass.Garnish with fresh cranberries, a lime wedge, and mint leaves.Serve immediately and enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 1cocktailCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 24gSodium: 5mgPotassium: 170mgSugar: 20gVitamin C: 35mgIron: 2mg NotesChill all ingredients before preparation for the best experience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!