Sweet Heat Margarita

A touch of sweetness with a little bit of spice - the Sweet Heat Margarita is the perfect "naughty nice" cocktail. This spicy, sweet, and festive margarita is made with a homemade vanilla jalapeño honey syrup, tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and a splash of ginger beer for a refreshing and zesty flavor profile. Whether you're feeling a little naughty or nice, this margarita is sure to please your taste buds.

Sweet Heat Margarita

A spicy and sweet margarita with a festive twist, made with homemade vanilla jalapeño honey syrup, tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and a hint of ginger beer.

4.92 from 39 votes
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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 5 mins
Total Time 15 mins

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1-2 jalapeños, sliced
  • 6 slices fresh ginger
  • 1 star anise
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 ounces tequila
  • 1/2 ounce orange liqueur (Cointreau)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons vanilla syrup
  • Ginger beer for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. To prepare the vanilla jalapeño honey syrup, simmer water, honey, jalapeños, ginger, and star anise in a pot, then let it cool and strain into a glass jar.
  2. Optionally rim the glass with salt and fill with ice.
  3. Combine tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, vanilla, and vanilla jalapeño honey syrup in a cocktail shaker, shake well, then fill with ice and shake again.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared glass and top with ginger beer.
  5. Garnish with sugared cranberries if desired.