Add a kick to the traditional margarita! Spicy jalapeno margarita packs a punch of flavor with jalapeño infused brown sugar simple syrup.
One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, FLOOR! I used to chant that in college when tequila shots were relevant and Margarita Mondays were not to be missed.
Nowadays, wheatgrass shots are the only shots I’m willing to partake in! Forget the tequila shots and just keep the margaritas coming.
This is my spicy twist on a classic fresh lime margarita. There are tons of recipes out there that use jalapeno infused tequila. This isn’t one of them.
Ingredients
To make this cocktail, you will need: tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and the special ingredient- jalapeno syrup.
Any tequila will work. For the best experience, use 100% agave tequila. Blanco (aka silver) tequila is most commonly used for margaritas. Try resposado tequila (aged) for a richer, oakier flavor.
I recommend Grand Marnier or Cointreau for orange liqueur. I tend to stay away form triple sec. It doesn’t have the same rich flavors as the first two mentioned.
Always, always, always use fresh squeezed lime juice. Fresh squeezed adds such a bright, vibrant flavor. Bottled juices just can’t compare to fresh squeezed.
Spicy Jalapeno Syrup
This spicy jalapeno margarita gets its punch of heat from jalapeno brown sugar simple syrup.
Classic simple syrup is a mixture of 1 part water and 1 part sugar.
To make this spicy version, I steeped one sliced jalapeno into the simple syrup mixture. Include the seeds for extra spice!
Simple syrup is usually made with granulated sugar. I used brown sugar because I enjoy the warm flavors from the molasses. You may stick to granulated sugar if you prefer. Keep in mind the syrup will be clear with white sugar.
Steep jalapeno for 15 minutes or so before straining.Cool the syrup to room temperature. Then, store in airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Other uses for spicy simple syrup?
Once you’ve had your fill of margaritas, use the jalapeno syrup to spice up some iced tea or iced coffee. If you like your desserts with a kick, this syrup can also be used when assembling layer cakes.
And of course, it can be used to spice up other classic cocktails like: Mint Julep, Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri or Mango Mojito.
Recommended Bar Tools
- Citrus Squeezer: Buy the lemon sized squeezer and use it for both lemons and limes.
- Mini Shotglass Measuring Glass: The key to excellent well balanced cocktails is proper measurements. Don’t eye ball it. Take the time to measure out the liquid ingredients.
- Large Cube Ice Tray: This version comes with a protective lid to prevent unwanted freezer odors leaching into the ice. Plus, each giant ice cube easily pops out of the tray.
Serving Suggestions
Spicy jalapeno margarita is enjoyable all on its own. Yet, it’s also amazing paired with foods. Grab some chips, salsa, and guacamole. Make this chipotle braised pork tacos or this slow cooker shredded beef tacos.
Invite some friends over and share a giant pitcher of margarita. Relax, laugh, and enjoy. Cheers!
More Tequila Cocktails
Spicy Jalapeno Margarita
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz tequila
- ½ oz Grand Marnier, or similar orange cognac liqueur
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz jalapeno syrup
Jalapeno Syrup:
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 small jalapeno, sliced, seeds included
Instructions
- Moisten rim of serving glass and invert onto a plate of coarse salt to coat.
- Partially fill serving glass with ice. Add a few jalapeno slices. Pour tequila, Grand Marnier, lime juice, and jalapeno syrup. Stir to combine. Garnish with lime slices.
Jalapeno Syrup:
- Place water, brown sugar, and sliced jalapeno in a small sauce pot. Set over medium heat and cook until sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let jalapeno steep for 15 minutes (or longer for more potent flavor and spice). Strain jalapeno and let syrup cool to room temperature. Transfer syrup to an airtight container and store in the fridge until ready to use. All images and text ©The Little Epicurean
Notes
- Use your choice of tequila. Blanco (silver) is most commonly used for classic margarita.
- Use fresh squeezed lime juice for best flavor.
- Jalapeno syrup keeps for up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Like this recipe? Rate & comment below!
Such a great idea for this year’s Cinco de Mayo. I love that it has a kick to it. Can’t wait to try!
Definitely pitcher worthy:) Love how you incorporated the jalapeno flavor and heat by way of the simple syrup.
Such a great recipe to liven up taco night! I had habanero sugar on hand and hadn’t had an excuse to use it for now, but it definitely added a little extra kick to the rim.