Caramelized Pineapple Shrub & Pineapple Margaritas

This Caramelized Pineapple Shrub & Pineapple Margarita is a tropical delight with a sweet and tangy twist. The caramelized pineapple shrub infuses the cocktail with a rich, fruity flavor, complemented by the zesty kick of tequila and fresh lime juice. The hint of Amaretto adds a subtle nutty undertone, making this margarita a refreshing and unique choice for any occasion.

Caramelized Pineapple Shrub & Pineapple Margaritas

A tropical cocktail with caramelized pineapple shrub, tequila, Cointreau, Amaretto, pineapple juice, and fresh lime juice, finished with a splash of club soda and a salted rim.

4.28 from 72 votes
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Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 vanilla bean, split in half lengthwise
  • 1-inch knob of ginger, peeled and sliced
  • 1 medium pineapple, peeled and diced (1 1/2 pounds)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 1/2 cups white wine vinegar
  • 2 oz silver tequila
  • 1 oz Cointreau or triple sec
  • 1/2 oz Amaretto
  • 4 oz caramelized pineapple shrub
  • 1-2 oz pineapple juice
  • 1 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
  • Splash of club soda or seltzer water, if desired
  • Kosher salt, to rim the glass, optional

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat sugar, vanilla, and ginger over medium heat until sugar begins to melt and turns an amber color, about 5 to 8 minutes.
  2. Add the pineapple and stir. (at this point, the caramelized sugar will probably seize up; this is okay, keep stirring it over medium heat and the sugar will dissolve completely in about 5 to 10 minutes)
  3. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the water and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low to simmer. Cover the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until pineapple looks deflated, about 20 to 30 minutes.
  4. Add the vinegar, remove from heat, and let stand for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. Strain through and sieve or fine mesh strainer and refrigerate until cold.
  5. For the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, Cointreau, Amaretto, pineapple shrub, pineapple juice, and lime juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass rimmed with kosher salt (if desired) and filled with ice. If desired, finish the drink with a splash of club soda. Garnish with a lime wheel or pineapple slice.