Grapefruit Margarita — an ideal fall cocktail that’s bright, fizzy, and incredibly tasty. I used Casa Azul Grapefruit Tequila Soda, which is made with real tequila; its crisp, citrus-forward flavor is perfect here. While the cans are great on their own, I wanted to elevate the classic margarita for guests and this version adds a lovely depth of flavor.
If you enjoy this recipe, try the Yuzu Prickly Pear GinRita for another fruity, floral twist.
Why You’ll Love Grapefruit Margarita
This cocktail is effervescent and well balanced. A simmered grapefruit syrup infused with cinnamon and ginger lends sweet, warm, and slightly spicy notes that complement the tart grapefruit and tequila soda. The cinnamon brings a gentle smokiness, while the ginger adds a subtle bite — together they create a layered, memorable drink. It’s simple to make and ideal for sharing.
How To Prepare Grapefruit Margarita
1. In a saucepan combine fresh grapefruit juice, sugar, a cinnamon stick, and sliced ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, until the mixture is slightly syrupy.
2. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool completely. Strain out the solids.
3. On a small plate combine salt and lemon zest; rub them together to blend the flavors.
4. Rim each glass with agave syrup and press into the lemon-salt mixture. Fill the glass with ice and a splash of the cooled grapefruit syrup or fresh grapefruit juice.
5. Add a squeeze of lemon, 1 oz simple syrup, and 1 oz orange liqueur (or triple sec). Stir gently with the cinnamon stick to integrate flavors.
6. Top with grapefruit tequila soda (or your preferred tequila soda) and garnish as desired.
Substitutions and Variations
- If Casa Azul Grapefruit Tequila Soda isn’t available, use your favorite tequila and any grapefruit soda to finish the drink.
- Omit the cinnamon stick if you prefer a cleaner citrus profile.
- Swap the rim salt for sugar, Tajín, or a spiced sugar for a different finish.
Chef Nadia’s Tip
Be sure the grapefruit and spice syrup cool completely before assembling the cocktail — this preserves the bright flavor and prevents dilution from heat.
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Common Questions
Use any tequila you like with a grapefruit soda or plain club soda and extra grapefruit syrup to achieve a similar finish.
Yes — omit the cinnamon if you prefer. The drink will still be bright and flavorful from the grapefruit and ginger.
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Ingredients
- 2 cans Casa Azul Grapefruit Tequila Soda
- 2 cups grapefruit juice, fresh squeezed
- 1 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 inch ginger, sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 lemon
- Salt, for the rim
- 4 oz orange liqueur, or triple sec
Instructions
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Add grapefruit juice, sugar, cinnamon stick, and sliced ginger to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10–12 minutes until slightly syrupy.
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Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool completely. Strain out solids.
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Mix salt and lemon zest on a plate for rimming the glasses.
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Brush the glass rim with agave syrup and press into the lemon-salt. Add ice and some grapefruit syrup or juice to each glass.
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Squeeze a little lemon, add 1 oz simple syrup and 1 oz orange liqueur, and stir with the cinnamon stick.
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Top each glass with grapefruit tequila soda and serve.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.