Can I use frozen cherries for margaritas?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work wonderfully for this cherry margarita recipe , especially if fresh ones aren't in season or readily available. You can use them directly from the freezer in the blender; there's no need to thaw them first. This helps keep your fruit margarita extra cold. Using frozen cherries can even help create a slightly slushier, colder margarita without adding extra ice. This means less dilution of flavor, so your cherry cocktail stays rich and delicious. Just make sure they are pitted before blending!

What kind of tequila is best for a cherry margarita?

For a classic, bright cherry margarita recipe , I recommend a good quality blanco (silver) tequila. Its unaged, clean flavor allows the vibrant cherry and lime notes to really shine through in your tequila drink. If you prefer a slightly smoother, more complex taste, a reposado tequila (aged for a short period) can also be a wonderful choice. It adds subtle vanilla or oak undertones to your fresh cherry margarita. Always avoid very cheap tequila, as it can have a harsh taste that takes away from the delicate fruit flavors.

How do I make a pitcher of cherry margaritas?

Making a pitcher of this cherry margarita recipe for a crowd is super easy! Simply multiply all the ingredient measurements by the number of servings you need (for example, for 4 servings, multiply everything by 4). Blend the cherry mixture, strain it, and pour it into a large pitcher. You can prepare this margarita mix several hours in advance and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, stir it well, then pour it over ice in individual glasses and garnish. Do not add ice directly to the pitcher itself, as it will dilute the entire batch over time.

Can I make a virgin cherry margarita?

Yes, you can easily adapt this cherry margarita recipe into a delicious non-alcoholic mocktail! To make a virgin cherry margarita, simply leave out the tequila, orange liqueur, and blackberry liqueur. You might want to increase the simple syrup slightly (add an extra teaspoon or two, tasting as you go) to balance the tartness without the alcohol. After blending and straining, serve over ice and top with a splash of sparkling water or club soda for some fun bubbles. It makes for a wonderfully refreshing cherry limeade! If you're eager to try another vibrant fruit blend in a margarita, a spicy mango margarita offers another fantastic taste adventure.

Cherry Margarita Recipe: Fresh & Homemade

Description

Craft a vibrant, sweet-tart cherry margarita recipe at home. This homemade fruit margarita uses fresh cherries for an unforgettable, refreshing drink perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup water
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
24 fresh cherries, pitted (about 1 cup)
3 oz blanco tequila
2 oz orange liqueur
2 oz blackberry liqueur (optional)
Ice
Salt for rimming (optional)
Lime wedges, for garnish
Extra cherries, for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup water and 2 Tbsp granulated sugar. Place the pan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture turns clear. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

2. Once your simple syrup has cooled, stir in the 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice. Pour this mixture into a blender.

3. Wash your 24 fresh cherries thoroughly. Carefully remove the pits from each cherry using a pitter or paring knife. Add the pitted cherries to the blender with your margarita mix.

4. Add 3 oz blanco tequila and 2 oz orange liqueur to the blender. If using, add 2 oz blackberry liqueur. Secure the lid and blend for 15-20 seconds, until the cherries are fully pureed and the mixture is smooth and vibrant.

5. Place a fine-mesh sieve over a pitcher or a large bowl. Carefully pour the blended cherry margarita mixture through the sieve. Use a rubber spatula to gently press down on the cherry solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the leftover cherry pulp.

6. For a salted rim, rub a lime wedge around the rim of your serving glass and dip it into salt. Fill your prepared glass with ice. Pour the strained cherry margarita over the ice. Garnish with a fresh lime wedge and an extra cherry or two.

Notes

Always use fresh lime juice and fresh, plump cherries for the best flavor.

Taste and adjust the balance of sweet and sour with simple syrup or lime juice as needed.

Use a good quality blanco or reposado tequila for a smoother drink.

Straining the cherry puree is crucial for a silky-smooth texture.

Chill your lime juice and tequila beforehand for a colder, less diluted margarita.

Frozen cherries can be used directly from the freezer without thawing.

To make a pitcher for a crowd, multiply ingredients and prepare the mix in advance, but add ice to individual glasses only.

For a non-alcoholic version, omit alcohol, adjust simple syrup, and top with sparkling water.

Try variations like a frozen, spicy (with jalapeño), or smoky (with mezcal) cherry margarita.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Category: Drinks
Method: Blending