Drinks

Festive Christmas Mistletoe Margarita Recipe

ByNaomi Fletcher December 29, 2025December 29, 2025

Introduction

This Christmas Mistletoe Margarita combines smooth tequila with tart cranberry juice, creating a festive and refreshing cocktail perfect for holiday gatherings. Its vibrant colors and balanced flavors are sure to delight your guests.

A clear glass margarita glass is filled with a pale yellow drink. The rim of the glass is covered in white salt and green herbs, with finely chopped green herbs sticking to the salt. The top layer of the drink is decorated with bright red pomegranate seeds scattered evenly, and a green sprig of herbs is placed in the center. A fresh lime slice with green skin and a pale green inside is attached to the side of the glass. The glass stands on a white marbled surface with some frosted pine branches and red Christmas ornaments blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 oz tequila blanco or reposado
1 oz triple sec
1 oz fresh lime juice (use fresh for best taste)
1 oz cranberry juice (festive, tart flavor)
½ oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
Fresh cranberries for garnish
Lime wedge for garnish
Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Coarse salt or sugar for rimming
Ice cubes as needed

Instructions

Step 1: Rim your glass by running a lime wedge along the edge, then dip it into coarse salt or sparkling sugar for a festive touch.
Step 2: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to chill your drink thoroughly.
Step 3: Add 2 ounces of tequila, 1 ounce of triple sec, 1 ounce of fresh lime juice, 1 ounce of cranberry juice, and ½ ounce of simple syrup to the shaker.
Step 4: Secure the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the mixture is frosty and well combined.
Step 5: Fill your rimmed glass with fresh ice to keep the cocktail chilled.
Step 6: Strain the shaken mixture into the prepared glass.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh cranberries, a lime wedge, and a sprig of mint for a beautiful presentation.
Step 8: Serve immediately and enjoy your festive cocktail.

Tips & Variations

For a refreshing twist, substitute fresh lime juice with a splash of orange juice for added flavor.

Storage

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to prepare in advance, mix the ingredients (without ice), store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then shake with ice and garnish before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a clear margarita glass filled with a light yellow drink. The rim of the glass is coated with salt and green herbs. On top of the drink, there are several bright red pomegranate seeds scattered, adding a burst of color. A green lime slice is placed on the edge of the glass, adding a fresh look. Green herb sprigs float lightly on the surface near the seeds. The background is softly blurred with warm yellow lights and red round decorations, creating a festive mood. The glass is set on a white marbled surface with green pine branches dusted with a white frost effect around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

While bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, fresh lime juice provides brighter, more vibrant flavor, which is key to this cocktail’s balance.

What can I use instead of simple syrup?

You can substitute simple syrup with honey or agave syrup, but adjust amounts to taste since their sweetness levels vary.