Coconut Margarita

Best tequila for a Coconut Margarita recipe

When it comes to crafting the perfect Coconut Margarita, selecting the right tequila is key. You’ll want to go for a Blanco tequila made from 100% blue agave. This type of tequila is unaged, which means it has a crisp, clean flavor that beautifully balances the creamy coconut and tangy lime juice in the cocktail. 

A high-quality blanco tequila offers bright, citrusy notes with hints of tropical fruit and a touch of peppery spice. The natural smoothness of a 100% agave tequila allows the flavors to blend harmoniously, giving your Coconut Margarita a well-rounded, refreshing finish with a touch of zest. 

Also see: 17 Easy Coconut Cocktails to Make at Home 

Cream of coconut or coconut cream

When it comes to making the perfect Coconut Margarita, it’s important to use cream of coconut, not coconut cream—and here’s why. 

Cream of coconut is specifically formulated for cocktails and desserts. It’s sweetened and has a rich, thick consistency that blends seamlessly with other ingredients, providing that signature tropical sweetness and smooth texture. This is what gives your Coconut Margarita a luxurious, dessert-like finish. 

Coconut cream, on the other hand, is unsweetened and typically used in cooking. While it’s thicker than coconut milk, it doesn’t have the same sweetness or the silky texture of cream of coconut. If you were to use coconut cream in this recipe, you’d end up with a much less balanced drink, possibly even a bit bland, since you’d miss out on that necessary sweetness. 

Learn more: Your Guide to Making Creamy Vegan Cocktails 

Variations & tips on how to make a Coconut Margarita your own

Looking to put your personal spin on the Coconut Margarita? Here are some fun variations and tips to help you customize your cocktail: 

• Make it spicy. Add a kick by muddling a few slices of fresh jalapeño with the lime juice before shaking. The heat contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the coconut. 

• Frozen Coconut Margarita. Toss all the ingredients into a blender with a handful of ice for a frosty, tropical treat. Perfect for those extra hot days! 

• Swap out the liqueur. Instead of Grand Marnier, try a coconut or pineapple liqueur to intensify the tropical vibe. It adds another layer of depth without overpowering the tequila. 

• Add a splash of pineapple juice. For an extra fruity twist, mix in a little pineapple juice with the lime juice. It pairs perfectly with the cream of coconut, adding another dimension to the flavor. 

• Garnish creatively. Beyond the classic lime wedge, add a skewer of fresh pineapple or a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top for an eye-catching presentation. 

• Rim it with flavored salt. Instead of toasted coconut, rim your glass with flavored salt, like chili-lime salt, for a bold contrast that enhances each sip. 

• Cut back on sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet drink, dial back the cream of coconut slightly and add a little more lime juice for extra brightness. 

• Try a coconut sugar rim. For a bit more sweetness and texture, dip the rim of your glass in coconut sugar instead of toasted coconut. 

Go pro: What is the Best Margarita Recipe (10 Ways to Make a Margarita) 

Serving suggestions

Coconut Margaritas are perfect for a beach-themed party, a poolside gathering, or as the signature cocktail this festive season. For a more elegant serve them at a tropical dinner party with tiki lights and laid-back vibes. Here are a few of our favorite food pairings. 

• Spicy Mexican fare: Tacos with grilled shrimp, jalapeño-studded nachos, or spicy chicken quesadillas bring out the sweetness in the cocktail while balancing the heat with the creamy coconut. 

• Grilled seafood: The taste of coconut complements the smoky, savory notes of grilled fish or prawns, especially when served with a squeeze of lime or a tropical salsa. 

• Coconut shrimp: Lean into the coconut theme by pairing the Margarita with crispy, golden-fried coconut shrimp. The combination is a match made in tropical heaven! 

• Ceviche: The fresh, citrusy punch of ceviche plays beautifully against the creamy, sweet nature of the cocktail. Go for ceviche made with a hint of spice to really balance the flavors. 

• Tropical fruit platter: For a lighter snack, serve with a platter of fresh mango, pineapple, and papaya. These fruits not only match the tropical theme, but they also enhance the cocktail’s flavor.  

Other cocktails to try if you love a Coconut Margarita

Jack Frost. This frosty sipper combines a frosty, refreshing blend of tropical flavors with a hint of sweetness. Its slushy, icy texture and coconut undertones make it a delightful escape from traditional cold-weather drinks. 

Pina Colada. The classic Piña Colada boasts a creamy, smooth texture with a perfect balance of pineapple sweetness and rich coconut flavor. It’s tropical and indulgent, ideal for folks who love bold, fruity cocktails. 

Painkiller. A velvety tropical cocktail with a hint of spice, the Painkiller blends the smooth sweetness of coconut and pineapple with a touch of citrus, creating a comforting yet refreshing sip. 

Mezcal Margarita. A more complex twist on the classic, the Mezcal Margarita comes to the party with earthy notes and a zesty kick of lime, offering a rich, layered experience for fans of bold flavors. 

Lime Margarita (the OG). The original Margarita is a timeless classic, offering a perfect balance of tart lime, a slight sweetness, and a refreshing bite. It’s the ultimate citrusy cocktail that never goes out of style. 

There you have it – our favorite Coconut Margarita recipe, and a few insider tips to help you whip up an incredible tropical creation every time. Tag us when you share your pics on Instagram and remember to sign up for our newsletter to receive the freshest drinkspiration in your inbox. In the meantime, visit the Espolòn and Grand Marnier websites for more cocktail ideas.