When I think of a refreshing drink, especially during festive times or just a relaxing evening, my mind often goes to a zesty margarita. I love how simple it is to shake up a great cocktail at home. Today, I’m sharing two of my favorite cranberry margarita recipes that bring a burst of flavor and a beautiful color to your glass.
Whether you prefer the classic tangy taste of a cranberry margarita or want to add a bright citrus note with orange, I’ve got you covered. These are quick to make and perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself. Let’s get mixing!
Jump to Recipe:
Classic Cranberry Margarita Recipe
This Cranberry Margarita is a beautifully balanced drink, offering a sweet and tart experience. It’s an easy-to-make cocktail that’s always a hit.
You will love its vibrant color and crisp taste, making it ideal for any get-together or a relaxing evening. 
Key Cranberry Margarita Ingredients & Tips
- Cranberry Juice: Use 100% cranberry juice for a tart, authentic flavor. Avoid cranberry cocktail blends which often contain added sugars.
- Fresh Lime: Freshly squeezed lime juice makes a big difference. It adds a bright, zesty note that bottled juice just can’t match.
What You Need for Your Margarita
- 2 oz Tequila (Blanco or Reposado)
- 1.5 oz 100% Cranberry Juice
- 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- 0.5 oz Orange Liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- Ice
- Lime wedge or fresh cranberries for garnish
- Coarse salt or sugar for rim (optional)
⏱️ Time: 5 minutes🍽️ Yields: 1 serving
How to Make This Cranberry Cocktail
Step 1: Prep Your Glass
If you want a rim, moisten the edge of your glass with a lime wedge. Dip the rim into coarse salt or sugar spread on a small plate. Fill the glass with fresh ice and set it aside.
Step 2: Shake Your Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, cranberry juice, fresh lime juice, and orange liqueur. Fill the shaker with ice. Secure the lid and shake well for about 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels very cold.
Step 3: Serve and Garnish
Strain the mixed drink into your prepared glass over the fresh ice. Garnish with a lime wedge or a few fresh cranberries. Enjoy your beautiful homemade cranberry margarita right away!
📝 Final Note
You can easily make this a pitcher drink! Just multiply the ingredients by how many servings you need and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Add ice to individual glasses when serving.
Bright Cranberry Orange Margarita Recipe
This Cranberry Orange Margarita adds a wonderful citrus brightness to the classic version. The orange juice pairs perfectly with the tart cranberry for a truly refreshing drink.
It’s a vibrant and lively cocktail that is simple to prepare and will quickly become a favorite for its balanced flavors. 
Key Cranberry Orange Margarita Ingredients & Tips
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice makes all the difference here. It adds a natural sweetness and a lovely aromatic quality.
- Garnish: An orange slice, a few fresh cranberries, or a sprig of rosemary can make your drink look extra special and appealing.
What You Need for This Orange Cocktail
- 2 oz Tequila (Blanco)
- 1 oz 100% Cranberry Juice
- 1 oz Fresh Orange Juice
- 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- 0.5 oz Orange Liqueur
- Ice
- Orange slice or cranberries for garnish
⏱️ Time: 5 minutes🍽️ Yields: 1 serving
How to Make This Cranberry Orange Drink
Step 1: Prepare Your Glass
You can rim your glass with salt or sugar, if you like. Run an orange or lime wedge around the rim, then dip it into salt or sugar on a shallow plate. Fill your chosen glass with fresh ice.
Step 2: Combine and Shake Well
Add the tequila, cranberry juice, orange juice, lime juice, and orange liqueur to a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker with ice cubes. Seal the shaker tightly and give it a good, hard shake for 15-20 seconds until the outside is frosty.
Step 3: Pour and Enjoy
Strain the delicious cranberry orange margarita mixture into your prepared glass over the fresh ice. Garnish with a slice of orange or a few floating cranberries to make it look extra festive. Serve immediately and sip slowly!
📝 Final Note
For a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of orange liqueur slightly. If you prefer it sweeter, a tiny splash of agave nectar or simple syrup can be added before shaking.
