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

Spicy Margarita variations are heating up bars around the globe, and it’s easy to see why —tequila’s bold personality with a touch of ¡Arriba! Ready to bring the heat? In this guide we give you eight delicious spicy variations that you can make at home, just like a pro.  

But first, the classic Spicy Margarita

Let’s start with our classic Spicy Margarita recipe. This is the recipe we make time and time again, so you know it’s gotta be good.  

INGREDIENTS  

• 2 oz Espolòn Tequila Blanco 

• 0.5 oz Grand Marnier 

• 0.5 oz Agave syrup 

• 1 oz Freshly squeezed lime juice 

• 1 Wedge of lime 

• 2 – 4 Deseeded jalapeño slices 

• Coarse salt to rim the glass 

• Ice 

METHOD 

1. Run the lime wedge along the rim of a rocks glass  
2. Dip the rim into a plate of salt, add ice and set aside  
3. Add sliced jalapeños to your cocktail shaker  
4. Muddle gently using a cocktail muddler or the back of a wooden spoon  
5. Add all the liquid ingredients  
6. Add ice and shake until properly chilled—at least 30 seconds  
7. Strain into prepared rocks glass  
8. Garnish with a slice or two of jalapeño 

Creative Spicy Margarita variations

1. Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita

This Jalapeño Margarita recipe makes a delicious sipper with a fiery twist, perfect for those who love a balance of sweetness and heat. To make one, muddle 3 1-inch pineapple chunks, 1–2 slices of fresh jalapeño, and a tiny pinch of sea salt in a cocktail shaker until the pineapple releases its juices. Add 2 oz tequila, 1 oz pineapple juice, 1 oz fresh lime juice, 0.5 oz orange liqueur, and ½ tsp agave syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds. 

Prepare the glass by mixing ½ tsp sugar, ¼ tsp sea salt, 1 pinch of chili powder, and 1 pinch of cracked black pepper in a shallow bowl. Rub a pineapple or lime wedge along the rim, dip the rim into the mix, then shake off the excess. Fill the glass with ice, strain the Margarita into it, and garnish with a fresh pineapple wedge and frond. 

Also see: 13 Spicy Cocktail Recipes that Pack a Punch  

2. Habanero Mango Margarita

The Habanero Mango Margarita sashays into the party with a luscious mango base and a fiery kick of habanero. Start by preparing a habanero-infused simple syrup: gently heat ½ a cup of water, ½ a cup of sugar, and 1 halved habanero on low until the sugar dissolves, then let it steep for 15 minutes before straining. For the chili powder-salt rim, mix 1 tsp chili powder with 1 tsp salt, wet the rim of your glass with lime juice, dip it into the mixture, and set it aside. 

To whip up one cocktail, blend together ½ a cup of thawed mango cubes and 1.5 oz habanero syrup. Once it’s nice and smooth, add it to an ice-filled shaker along with 2 oz tequila, 0.75 oz orange liqueur, and 1.5 oz fresh lime juice. Shake until chilled, then pour it into the prepared glass over ice.  

Learn more: Trending Cocktail Flavors with Espolòn Tequila (Recipes and Expert Tips)

3. Serrano Cucumber Margarita

The Serrano Cucumber Margarita combines crisp cucumber and bold serrano heat for an unforgettable sip. Start by preparing a chili-infused tequila: combine 3 cups of tequila with a sliced serrano pepper (seeds intact) in a jar, seal it, and let it infuse for at least 24 hours at room temperature. Strain out the pepper slices and seeds before using. 

To make the Margarita, muddle a few thin serrano rings (seeds removed), a quarter of a peeled and thinly sliced cucumber, 1.5 oz lime juice, and 0.5 oz agave nectar in a cocktail shaker. Add 2 oz serrano-infused tequila, 1 oz plain tequila, 0.5 oz orange liqueur, and a small handful of ice cubes. Shake until well chilled, then strain into a glass with a salted rim and crushed ice. 

Read next: 8 Must-Try Añejo Tequila Cocktails  

4. Tajin Watermelon Margarita

The Tajin Watermelon Margarita is a vibrant cocktail that’s all about juicy, summer vibes with a tangy twist. To make one, start by making your own fresh watermelon juice. Simply blend fresh, seedless watermelon chunks until smooth, then strain it through a fine mesh strainer. Rim your Margarita glass with Tajín for a zesty kick: wet the rim with a lime wedge and dip into the spice. Set it aside and make the cocktail. 

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine 6 oz watermelon juice, 1.5 oz tequila, 0.5 oz fresh lime juice, and 0.5 oz simple syrup (optional for added sweetness). Shake vigorously until frothy and well-chilled, then strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with a watermelon wedge, lime slice, or a jalapeño for a touch of spice. 

Try something novel: 15 Savory Cocktails (Bold and Flavorful Drinks to Try at Home 

5. Smoky Chipotle Margarita

The Chipotle Margarita offers a smoky twist on a classic, blending bright citrus flavors with a subtle, spicy kick. To make one, muddle 2 thick slices of orange with ice, a splash of chipotle juice (from canned chipotle), and 1 oz fresh lime juice in a cocktail shaker.  

Add more ice, 1.5 oz tequila (preferably a reposado), 0.5 oz premium orange liqueur, and 0.75 oz simple syrup. Shake vigorously until well combined, then strain into a glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with an orange slice for a vibrant finishing touch.  

Salud! The Ultimate Guide to Delicious Reposado Tequila Cocktails  

3 Spicy tequila cocktails

While these cocktails might not fit the strict definition of Spicy Margaritas, they share the same vibrant spirit and bold flavors, thanks to their tequila base and spicy accents. Think of them as part of the same flavorful family tree—each bringing its own unique twist to the table. 

6. Ancho Reyes Maria Verde

The Ancho Reyes Maria Verde is an inventive take on the Spicy Margarita, blending creamy avocado with tangy, smoky, and spicy notes for a cocktail that’s as bold as it is intriguing.  

To craft this unique drink, start by preparing the Maria Verde mix: blend 1 large, pitted avocado, a rib of celery, a seeded and de-pithed serrano chili, 4 oz fresh lime juice, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp celery salt, and ½ part champagne vinegar. Purée until smooth, then strain it through a fine mesh strainer for a silky consistency.  

In a highball glass filled with ice, combine 1 oz blanco tequila and 1 oz Ancho Reyes Verde, then slowly pour the Maria Verde mix over the top. Stir gently, and garnish with a slice of jalapeño, celery, or a hot pepper to add a striking visual and an extra kick. 

More spice this way! 15 Best Ancho Reyes Cocktails to Turn up the Heat 

7. Mexican Candy Cocktail

The Mexican Candy cocktail is a playful and spicy-sweet delight that brings a touch of nostalgia with every sip. This vibrant drink combines juicy watermelon flavors with a hint of zesty lime and a kick of chili, making it the perfect choice for those who love a little bit of sneaky heat.  

Cheers, dears! 7 Tiny Cocktails to Stay Ahead of the Trend 

8. Mexican Razorblade

The Mexican Razor Blade is a captivating cocktail crafted by Dan Greenbaum of New York’s Attaboy bar. This enticing drink combines the crispness of cucumber and the zest of lime with the boldness of tequila or mezcal, resulting in delightfully spicy experience.  

To make one, shake 2 oz of blanco tequila, 1 oz of lime juice, 0.75 oz of simple syrup, and 2 slices of cucumber with ice until well chilled. Strain into a glass over fresh ice. For a distinctive garnish, float a cucumber slice on top and sprinkle it generously with piquín chili, cayenne, or your preferred powdered chili. This simple yet striking cocktail is sure to impress. 

Techniques to customize your spice level

Now that you know how to make Spicy Margaritas like a total pro, here are some clever recipes for chili-infused tequila, chili-infused simple syrup, and homemade chili powder to help you create a signature cocktail experience. Each recipe can be adjusted to your spice preference, giving you full control over the heat level in your cocktails. 

Chili-infused tequila

INGREDIENTS 

• 1 bottle (750 ml) Blanco tequila 

• 1–2 Fresh chili peppers (such as serrano or jalapeño), sliced 

METHOD 

1. Pour the tequila into a clean, sealable container 
2. Add the sliced chili peppers to the tequila 
3. Seal the container and let it sit at room temperature for 24–48 hours 
4. Taste periodically to achieve the desired heat level  
5. Once satisfied, strain out the chili slices and transfer the infused tequila back into the bottle 

Monitor the infusion closely; chili peppers can intensify the heat of infusion quickly. For a milder infusion, use fewer chili slices or reduce the infusion time.

Chili-infused simple syrup

INGREDIENTS 

• 1 cup granulated sugar 

• 1 cup water 

• 1–2 fresh chili peppers (jalapeño or habanero), sliced 

METHOD 

1. Combine sugar and water in a saucepan. 
2. Warm it up over a medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. 
3. Add the sliced chili peppers and simmer for 10 minutes. 
4. Remove from heat and let it steep for an additional 10 minutes. 
5. Once cooled, strain out the chili slices and transfer the syrup to a sterilized bottle. 
6. Refrigerate and use within two weeks. 

For a milder syrup, remove the seeds and membranes from the chili peppers before infusion. To increase the heat, let the syrup steep longer or add more chili peppers.

Homemade chili powder

INGREDIENTS 

• 2 tbsp paprika 

• 2 tsp ground cumin 

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) 

• 1 tsp garlic powder 

• 1 tsp onion powder 

• 1 tsp dried oregano 

METHOD 

1. Combine all the spices in a bowl. 
2. Mix thoroughly until well blended. 
3. Store in an airtight container away from direct sunlight. 

Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat. For a smokier flavor, substitute smoked paprika.

Pairing Spicy Margaritas with food

A Spicy Margarita will level up just about any dining experience with its bold flavors and heat. To pair it to perfection, consider dishes that balance, complement, or enhance the spiciness of the cocktail. Here are some delicious appetizers, mains, and desserts to inspire your menu. 

Appetizers

• Guacamole with charred corn: The creamy avocado and sweet corn counterbalance the spice in your Margarita for a harmonious start to the meal. 

• Spicy shrimp ceviche: The zesty lime and heat from the dish mirror the Margarita’s flavors for a cohesive bite. 

• Mini chili-lime chicken skewers: Perfectly seasoned with a smoky chili rub, these skewers offer a satisfying contrast to the Margarita’s citrusy tang. 

Mains

• Tacos al pastor: The smoky sweetness of the pork pairs beautifully with the vibrant and spicy notes of your Margarita. 

• Grilled fish with mango salsa: A light, tropical main dish that complements the drink’s fruity undertones and chili kick. 

• Chipotle beef fajitas: Bold and hearty, these fajitas match the Margarita’s intensity and provide a satisfying balance. 

Desserts

• Chili chocolate mousse: The rich, velvety chocolate paired with a touch of chili heat is a luxurious match for your cocktail. 

• Pineapple jalapeño sorbet: A refreshing dessert with tropical and spicy notes that mirror your Margarita’s flavors. 

• Cinnamon-sugar churros with a chocolate dip: The warm spice of cinnamon and the sweetness of churros provide a delightful contrast to the heat of the drink. 

Tips for hosting a Spicy Margarita night

Spice up your next gathering with a themed night dedicated to the decidedly dapper Spicy Margarita! From eye-catching presentations to creating an interactive DIY Margarita bar, here’s how to make your event unforgettable. 

Presentation and garnish ideas 

• Offer a variety of rimming options like Tajin, chili-lime salt, black lava salt, or crushed tortilla chips for a memorable twist. 

• Garnish Margaritas with slices of fresh chili, citrus wheels, candied jalapeños, or sprigs of fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. For a dramatic touch, use charred lime wedges or smoked salt. 

• Serve drinks in colorful glassware or vintage coupe glasses to add personality to each cocktail. Frosted glasses from the freezer also elevate the experience. 

• Add playful accents like edible flowers or chili pepper swizzle sticks for a touch of fun. 

Setting up a DIY Spicy Margarita bar

• Base options: Provide pre-made spicy components like serrano-infused tequila, chili-infused simple syrup, or habanero lime juice for guests to mix and match. 

• Mix-ins: Set out fresh ingredients like muddled fruit (watermelon, mango, pineapple), cucumber slices, and fresh lime juice for customized cocktails. 

• Heat levels: Include a variety of chili options (mild jalapeños to fiery habaneros) so guests can control their spice level. Label each clearly to avoid surprises! 

• Garnish station: Arrange a garnish station with chili powder, citrus slices, fresh herbs, and specialty salts. 

• Recipes to inspire: Print or display simple Margarita recipes as inspiration for guests who aren’t sure where to start. 

• Non-alcoholic options: Offer spicy mocktail alternatives using infused syrups and fresh juices for non-drinkers. 

There you have it spice lovers – everything you need to know about making amazing Spicy Margarita variations and serving them up like the pros. Sign up for our newsletter to get more tasty drinkspiration served up in your inbox, and visit the Espolòn, Ancho Reyes, and Grand Marnier websites for more amazing cocktail recipe ideas.