Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ½ cups chilled orange juice
- 2 ½ cups chilled cranberry juice
- 2 cups chilled 7UP (adds a little fizz!)
- 2 cups chilled tequila
- ½ cup chilled maraschino cherry juice (for a sweet, cherry twist)
- ¼ cup lemon juice (a touch of tang to balance the sweetness)
- Simple syrup (optional, for added sweetness if needed)
- Cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional, to add that mistletoe look)
For the Simple Syrup
- Combine equal parts of granulated sugar and water in a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Remove from heat and let it cool—this is your simple syrup, ready to add a dash of sweetness to your margarita if you wish!
Instructions
- Prepare the Glasses: Run a lime wedge around the rim of each margarita glass, then dip the rim in coarse salt or sugar for a festive touch.
- Mix the Margarita: In a large pitcher, combine orange juice, cranberry juice, 7UP, tequila, maraschino cherry juice, lemon juice, and about ¼ cup of the simple syrup (optional).
- Chill and Serve: Add ice cubes to the pitcher or place them directly in each glass, then stir the mixture to chill. Pour the margarita mixture into your prepared glasses.
- Garnish: To finish, garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs. These garnishes not only look festive but also add a lovely aroma to the drink!
Notes
- Adjust the Sweetness: The simple syrup is optional—add it based on your taste preferences. If you enjoy a sweeter margarita, feel free to add a bit more.
- Use Fresh Juices: While bottled juice is convenient, using freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice can enhance the flavor significantly.
- Tequila Tips: Opt for a high-quality tequila to keep the flavors smooth and balanced. Blanco or reposado tequilas work wonderfully in this recipe.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the simple syrup and juice mix ahead of time, then add ice and 7UP just before serving to keep it bubbly.
- Batch-Friendly: This recipe is easy to double or triple if you’re hosting a larger crowd!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for simple syrup, optional)
- Category: Cocktails, Holiday Drinks
- Method: Stirring
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 120kcal
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Holiday margarita recipe, Christmas cocktail ideas, Cranberry margarita