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Taste the Tropics: 10 Pineapple and Tequila Cocktails You'll Love

February 08, 2024 by

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Ready to shake things up at your next backyard BBQ or summertime bash? Pineapple tequila cocktails are the way to go. Whether you’re a seasoned home mixologist or still figuring out how to use your shaker, these tropical sippers are easy to master and packed with good vibes.

Why do pineapple and tequila work so well together? It’s all about balance. The juicy sweetness and slight tang of pineapple bring out the earthy, peppery notes in tequila, especially a bright blanco or a mellow reposado. Use fresh pineapple juice if you can swing it; the flavour’s punchier and it gives your drinks that just-cut fruit energy. Tinned works too, just check the label and go for 100% juice.

From warm-weather hangs to Friday night tacos, this combo always brings a dash of sunshine to any occasion.

1. Pineapple Paloma

Close up of two Pineapple Paloma cocktails on a white tablecloth in a sunny indoor environment

We adore a peppy Paloma, and this tequila pineapple cocktail version is a complete treat as well. To make one, combine 60 ml tequila, 120 ml fresh pineapple juice, and 30 ml lime juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until frosty, strain into a serving glass over fresh ice, pop a wedge of pineapple on the rim as a garnish, and Bob’s your uncle. 

Also see: 5 Best Cocktails with Rum and Tequila

2. Pineapple Margarita

Close up of two glasses of Spicy Pineapple Margarita on a wooden table top surrounded by fresh limes and rimmed in tajin

The best pineapple juice tequila cocktails tend to have some serious tropical swagger, and the Pineapple Margarita certainly ticks this box. To make one, add 45 ml Espolòn Tequila Blanco, 60 ml fresh pineapple juice, 20 ml Grand Marnier, and 20 ml lime juice to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until well combined, strain into a salt-rimmed Margarita glass, top it with ice, and serve. 

“When crafting Margaritas with a tequila like Espolòn Tequila Blanco, consider flavours that complement tequila, particularly those representative of its region of origin. Mexico’s diverse food scene offers a wealth of ingredients, including mangoes, pineapples, and tomatillos, which can enhance the cocktail. For a spicy twist, adding a mango habanero hot sauce can elevate a Margarita, infusing it with tropical nuances. Coconut is another intriguing flavour that pairs well with tequila, although it’s often underutilised.” Tristram Fini, Campari Academy UK

3. Mr. Prado

Two Mr Prado cocktails on a table outside at a beach cafe with an ocean view

If the idea of a tequila and pineapple juice cocktail with a bit of herbaceous action sounds up your alley, you’ve got to whip up a Mr. Prado, darling. To make one, you’ll have to make a batch of sage-infused sugar syrup. Don’t worry, it’s easy—just use our Ultimate Guide to Sugar Syrups. Once your syrup has cooled, combine 60 ml blanco tequila, 60 ml fresh pineapple juice, 20 ml fresh lime juice, and 20 ml sage syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled, strain into a rocks glass over ice, garnish with fresh sage, and serve.

More where this came from! 15 Totally Tropical Pineapple Juice Cocktails 

4. Pineapple Ranch Water

Pineapple Ranch Water cocktail on a table outside at a beach cafe with an ocean view

Cocktails with pineapple juice and tequila do not come simpler than this tropical take on the Texan classic. To pour one, combine 60 ml tequila, 60 ml pineapple juice, and 20 ml fresh lime juice in a big glass over lots of ice. Top off with 120 ml of sparkling water and enjoy! This zesty cocktail is a treat when paired with some BBQ chicken wings. 

Read next: 10 Tequila and Aperol Cocktails to Sip at Sunset

5. Pineapple Princess

Pineapple Princess cocktail on a table in a modern home kitchen

Take your tequila pineapple juice cocktail to a whole new level with the addition of a bitter apéritif to strike a captivating balance. To make a Pineapple Princess cocktail, combine 20 ml Aperol, 30 ml tequila, 20 ml Grand Marnier, 60 ml fresh pineapple juice, and 15 ml lime juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until frosty, strain into a serving glass over fresh ice, garnish with a lime wheel, and serve.  

Go pro: 14 Best Tequila Mixers (What to Mix with Tequila)

6. Spicy Pineapple Tequila Spritz

Two Spicy Pineapple Tequila Spritz cocktails on a table inside a traditional island Tiki bar

Tequila cocktails with pineapple juice are sunny to the core, and the Spicy Pineapple Tequila Spritz might just be the most joyful of them all. Start by making a jalapeño sugar syrup using this recipe, and one sliced jalapeño with its seeds removed.  

Once the syrup is cooled, combine 30 ml jalapeño sugar syrup with 90 ml fresh pineapple juice, and 60 ml blanco tequila in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until chilled, strain into a serving glass over ice, and top off with sparkling water and a squeeze of fresh lime. You can also rim the glass with a lime wedge and Tajín seasoning if you’re feeling fancy. 

7. Pineapple Tequila Sunrise

A Pineapple Tequila Sunrise cocktail on a table covered in a colourful tablecloth with natural light coming in through a window

If you’re looking for a colourful, festive clinker of a drink, this pineapple orange juice tequila cocktail should be at the top of your list. To make a Pineapple Tequila Sunrise, build 60 ml blanco tequila, 60 ml fresh pineapple juice, and 120 ml orange juice in a Collins glass over ice. Add a dash of grenadine, garnish with a cheeky slice of orange and cherry, and enjoy! 

Check these out! Painkiller | Singapore Sling | Jungle Bird 

8. Rosemary Pineapple Tequila Cocktail

Two Rosemary Pineapple Tequila Cocktail cocktails on table outside in a vibrant summer garden

For a fragrant take on a classic spritz, we highly recommend a Rosemary Pineapple Tequila Cocktail. To make one, muddle 3-4 fresh pineapple chunks in the bottom of a mixing glass with the leaves of one sprig of fresh rosemary, and 60 ml of lime juice. Fine-strain the mixture into a cocktail shaker and add 30 ml sugar syrup, and 45 ml Espolòn Tequila Añejo. Shake well, and strain into a tall serving glass over fresh ice. Top off with your favourite wheat ale, or some sparkling water if you prefer a lower ABV, garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary, and serve.  

9. Pineapple Tequila Rum Punch

A close-up pf a Tequila Pineapple Punch cocktails served with a bowl of nachos

Looking to serve a crowd with a tropical twist? This Pineapple Tequila Rum Punch is your go-to. Combining the smoothness of tequila and coconut rum with the vibrant flavours of pineapple and lime, it’s a party in a jug.​

To prepare a batch for about six guests, combine 360 ml blanco tequila, 180 ml coconut rum, 450 ml fresh pineapple juice, and 50 ml lime juice over ice in a large jug. Stir gently to mix. Top with a bottle of sparkling water, add some lemon slices for an extra zing, and serve in sugar-rimmed glasses for a delightful touch.

Inside scoop: Trending Cocktail Flavours with Espolòn Tequila

10. Desert Diablo

Two vibrant Desert Diablo Pineapple and Tequila cocktails against a pale blue tiled background

The Desert Diablo brings that sunny sweetness with just the right touch of zing, thanks to a splash of ginger beer and a hit of lime. To make one, combine 45 ml tequila, 20 ml pineapple juice, and 15 ml lime juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake it like you mean it, then strain into a highball glass over fresh ice. Top with 30 ml ginger beer and garnish with a slice of dehydrated pineapple for a little desert drama.

Cheers, dears! 20 Refreshing Tequila Cocktails to Sip This Summer

Tips for using pineapple in cocktails

Making pineapple juice at home 

Close up of a glass of fresh pineapple juice on a table outside with a fresh pineapple next to it on a sunny day

Making fresh juice at home for tequila pineapple drinks is a simple and refreshing process. Here’s a basic recipe for homemade pineapple juice: 

INGREDIENTS 

  • 1 Ripe pineapple 
  • Water (optional, depending on your preferred consistency) 
  • Sweetener, e.g., honey, agave syrup, or sugar (optional, depending on your taste) 

INSTRUCTIONS  

  1. Choose a ripe pineapple with a sweet aroma. You can check for ripeness by gently pressing the base of the fruit – it should give slightly. 
  2. Cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple. Put the pineapple upright and cut away the skin, removing the thorny bits. Slice the pineapple into chunks, discarding the core. 
  3. Blend. Place the pineapple chunks in a blender. Blend until you get a smooth consistency. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little water to help with the blending. 
  4. Strain (optional). If you prefer a smoother juice, strain the blended mixture using a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or a nut milk bag. Press the pulp with a spoon or spatula to extract as much juice as possible. 
  5. Adjust consistency and sweetness (optional). If the juice is too thick, you can add more water and blend again until you achieve your desired consistency. Taste the juice and add a sweetener if needed. Depending on the sweetness of the pineapple, you might not need any additional sweeteners. Options include honey, agave syrup, or sugar. You can also enhance the flavour by adding a splash of lime or lemon juice. 
  6. Serve and enjoy. Pour the fresh pineapple juice into glasses over ice or use it in your favourite tequila pineapple cocktail below. 
Remember that fresh pineapple juice is best enjoyed immediately, but you can store it in the refrigerator for a day or two. Shake or stir well before serving if any separation occurs when making tequila and pineapple juice cocktails.  

Infusing tequila with pineapple

A bowl of chopped pineapple on a wooden board with a knife

Infusing tequila with pineapple is a brilliant way to add a naturally sweet, tropical twist to your pineapple tequila drinks. The process is straightforward and yields a flavourful spirit that’s perfect for sipping or mixing.​

Here’s how to do it:

  1. Peel, core, and slice a ripe pineapple into spears or chunks.​
  2. Place the pineapple pieces into a large, airtight jar, filling it about three-quarters full. Pour in enough silver (blanco) tequila to fully submerge the fruit.​
  3. Seal the jar and refrigerate it for 4 to 7 days, allowing the flavours to meld. The longer it sits, the more pronounced the pineapple flavour will be.​
  4. Once infused to your liking, strain out the pineapple and store the flavoured tequila in a clean bottle until you want to make your pineapple cocktails with tequila.

Using pineapple as a garnish or in ice cubes

Close-up of three ice cubes with pineapple frozen on the inside

Everyone’s favourite tropical fruit does double duty in pineapple tequila recipes—it brings the flavour, and it looks fantastic doing it.

A fresh wedge or slice perched on the rim of your glass instantly signals good times ahead. If you’re after something a little more refined, dehydrated pineapple rings offer a concentrated pop of sweetness and a cool, sun-dried aesthetic that works especially well in cocktails served over ice. You can make your own in a low oven or food dehydrator, or grab some from a specialty garnish supplier.

For an even easier way to bring in some pineapple flair, freeze pineapple juice or small chunks of fruit into ice cube trays. These cubes look great in a glass and slowly release their flavour as they melt, giving your drink a little evolution with every sip. It’s a fun way to add character to everything from a classic Tequila Sunrise to a big-batch punch.

Turn Up the Heat: 8 Spicy Margarita Variations You Need to Try

Best tequilas to pair with pineapple

Three shot glasses filled with Reposado Tequila

Pineapple plays well with all types of tequila, but picking the right style can really dial in the vibe of your cocktail. It’s about matching mood to flavour: crisp and citrussy, warm and spicy, or smooth and rich.

Blanco tequila is bright, clean, and full of pure agave character, with notes of citrus and pepper. It’s the go-to for most pineapple cocktails, especially those that lean zesty or tropical. Think Pineapple Margarita, Pineapple Ranch Water, Spicy Pineapple Tequila Spritz, or the bittersweet Pineapple Princess. Blanco cuts through sweetness and lifts fruit-forward ingredients with just the right amount of edge.

Reposado tequila brings a little more warmth to the mix. Aged in oak, it has mellow hints of vanilla and spice that make it perfect for cocktails with deeper or spicier elements. It’s a natural fit for the Desert Diablo, where ginger beer and pineapple juice get a boost from the reposado’s smooth, woody backbone.

Añejo tequila, with its longer ageing time, shows up with rich layers of toasted agave, subtle caramel, and dried fruit. It’s best suited to cocktails that have some structure—like the Rosemary Pineapple Tequila Cocktail, where herbal notes and fruit chunks mingle with just enough earthiness to hold their own. Añejo isn’t often paired with pineapple, but when it works, it really works.

So, which should you choose? Go blanco for clean and punchy, reposado for a touch of spice and body, and añejo when you’re aiming for something a little more unexpected and complex. Pineapple’s bold flavour doesn’t back down, and that’s what makes these combos sing.

Mocktail ideas with pineapple and tequila alternatives

No Tequila Sunrise Mocktail

Designated driver? Taking a booze break? No problem! The bold flavour and tropical sweetness of pineapple bring plenty of personality to a glass, even without the tequila. The trick is using mixers and non-alcoholic spirits that mimic the depth and zing you’d normally get from agave-based liquor.

Start with a No-Tequila Pineapple Margarita by shaking together 60 ml fresh pineapple juice, 30 ml lime juice, 15 ml orange juice, and a splash of agave syrup. Add a drop or two of liquid smoke if you’re missing that earthy edge. Shake it up with ice and strain into a salt-rimmed glass. It’s sunny, sour, and totally sip-worthy.

Feeling something fizzy? A Pineapple Ranch Fizz brings the sparkle. Mix 60 ml of pineapple juice with 30 ml lime juice and top it off with chilled soda water or tonic. Add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of chilli salt for that spicy spritz moment.

If you want the full cocktail experience without the booze, use a non-alcoholic tequila alternative. These options add complexity and aroma, perfect for recreating drinks like the Mr. Prado or Spicy Pineapple Spritz without losing the vibe.

There you have it—10 lush pineapple and tequila recipes to try at home. Let us know which one is your favourite! Tag us in your Instagram pictures and remember to sign up for our newsletter to get the juiciest cocktail inspiration straight from the source. Visit the Espolòn website in the meantime to stock up on premium tequila to shake up stunning tequila pineapple juice cocktails every time. 

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