Cinco De Drinko (Party-Style Margarita)
10 min
|
easy
|
gluten-free,
low-fat
Recipe by Eunice
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 min | 0 min | 10 min |
Introduction
This big-batch Cinco de Drinko margarita is perfect for parties, game days, and laid-back backyard hangouts.
Tequila blanco, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and agave syrup give you that classic margarita flavor with a smooth, not-too-sweet finish.
A splash of pineapple juice adds a fun tropical twist that keeps everyone coming back for another pour.
Ingredients (8 servings)
Ingredients
For Rimming
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How to Make Cinco De Drinko (Party-Style Margarita)
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Chill the pitcher and glasses
Place a large glass pitcher and your serving glasses in the fridge or freezer while you prep the ingredients.
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Prep the salt rims
Run a lime wedge around the rim of each chilled glass.
Dip the rims into a shallow plate of sea salt, then set the glasses aside to dry.
-
Combine the margarita base
In the chilled pitcher, combine tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, agave syrup, and pineapple juice.
Stir well until the agave is fully dissolved and everything looks evenly mixed.
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Add ice and chill
Fill the pitcher about halfway with ice, then stir for 20 to 30 seconds to chill the mixture.
If you prefer stronger drinks, add less ice and stir just until the outside of the pitcher feels cold.
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Taste and adjust
Taste with a spoon and adjust with a splash more lime for brightness or a little agave for sweetness.
You can also add a small splash of tequila if you want a bolder pour.
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Serve the margaritas
Fill each salt-rimmed glass with fresh ice, then pour in the margarita and garnish with a lime wedge.
Serve right away while everything is icy cold and the salt rims are crisp.
Substitutions
- Tequila blanco -> mezcal
- Swap the tequila with the same amount of mezcal for a smokier, earthier pitcher. The citrus and pineapple keep it balanced and refreshing.
- Orange liqueur -> orange juice plus simple syrup
- Use equal parts fresh orange juice and simple syrup in place of orange liqueur for a lighter, lower-alcohol version. You still get bright orange flavor, just with a softer finish and less boozy burn.
- Pineapple juice -> mango nectar
- Sub mango nectar for the pineapple juice if you want a thicker, silkier texture and a more tropical, lush flavor. It turns the drink slightly golden and makes it feel a little extra fancy for parties.
Tips
- Use fresh lime juice
- Freshly squeezed lime juice gives a brighter, cleaner flavor than bottled, which can taste flat or slightly bitter.
- Chill everything for less dilution
- Keep the tequila, mixers, and pitcher cold before you start so the ice melts slower and the flavor stays bold.
- Salt just half the rim
- Salt only half the rim so guests can choose a saltier sip on one side or a cleaner sip.
- Batch ahead without the ice
- If you need to make this hours ahead, mix everything except the ice and keep the pitcher refrigerated. Add ice and stir right before serving so the margaritas do not get watered down.
- Adjust sweetness for your crowd
- People vary on sweetness, so start with the written agave amount and keep extra handy to tweak the pitcher at serving.
Nutrition Facts *
| Energy | 242 | kcal |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 0 | g |
| Total Fat | 0 | g |
| Carbohydrates | 31 | g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 | g |
* Approximate, per serving.
Data source: USDA FoodData Central.
FAQ
- Can I make this margarita pitcher ahead of time?
- Yes, you can mix everything except the ice up to 24 hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Add ice and stir right before guests arrive so the drinks stay cold but not overly diluted.
- How can I make these margaritas less strong?
- Increase the pineapple juice and lime juice slightly, and serve over plenty of ice, to soften the alcohol bite. You can also replace a portion of the tequila with sparkling water right in each glass.
- What if my margarita tastes too sour or too sweet?
- If it is too sour, stir in a little more agave syrup, one tablespoon at a time, and taste again. If it is too sweet, add a splash of lime juice or a small pour of tequila to rebalance.
- How many people does this recipe serve?
- This batch makes about 32 ounces of margarita, which is usually enough for 6 to 8 small drinks. Plan on one drink per person to start, then double the recipe if your crowd loves margaritas.
- Can I turn this into frozen blender margaritas?
- Yes, blend the chilled margarita mixture with plenty of ice until slushy, working in batches if your blender is small. You may need a splash more lime or agave, since frozen drinks can taste slightly muted.
Serving Suggestions
This pitcher margarita pairs especially well with chips, guacamole, grilled shrimp, and anything spicy off the grill.
For a fun twist, add muddled jalapeño or fresh berries in the pitcher to change the vibe without changing the method.
Set out bowls of extra lime wedges and salt so guests can customize every glass.
Reviews
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Christine, Airdrie, Canada: Came out great, perfect party margaritas!
: Happy it was a hit, Christine, and that it made perfect party margaritas! 🍹
Made this recipe? How did it go?
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