Spicy Pineapple Margarita

🍍 Why This Is The Best Spicy Pineapple Margarita

Oh my, I just LOVE this spicy pineapple margarita!!

There's something about the sweetness of the pineapple mixed with the heat from the jalapeno simple syrup that makes this cocktail out of this world amazing. It's not as spicy as my Jalapeno Margarita Recipe but it's close.

Not only is this margarita bursting at the seams with flavor, it also couldn't be easier to make. Simply add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker, shake well, then strain and serve. Done and done.

I've also included instructions on how to make a large batch of these margaritas in case you decide to share. However, if your friends aren't into spice, you can always make a large pitcher of classic margaritas.

Either way, I'm sure your guests will love both!

Why You'll Love This Margarita

• It's perfectly balanced with sweet and spicy flavors.
• It's extremely easy to make and takes just 5 minutes!
• It's easy to make one OR a pitcher for a larger group.
• You only need a few ingredients.
• It can be made in ADVANCE! (Something us hostess' greatly desire!)

Pineapple Margarita Ingredient Tips

*full ingredients list and measurements can be found in recipe card below*

• Tequila: I use Tequila Blanco, but it's also called silver tequila. Basically it's the purest form of tequila
• Pineapple juice: Store-bought pineapple juice works great here but freshly juiced is even better! If buying store-bought, I suggest buying it in a glass bottle because the cans can sometimes taste a bit metallic.
• Jalapeno simple syrup: I use a homemade jalapeno simple syrup. It's extremely easy to make, but you can purchase it pre-made if you prefer.
• Cointreau: This orange flavored liqueur separates my margarita from the rest! It's absolutely a must-have ingredient!
• Lime juice: Fresh squeezed lime juice just brightens up the entire drink. I recommend using fresh lime juice because bottled is much more concentrated.
• Tajin or Salt: These ingredients are optional, but if you're feeling fancy it's fun to add a special rim to your glass!

How To Make A Spicy Pineapple Margarita

Step 1: Prepare Your Pineapple Juice

You can take the easy way out here by purchasing pineapple juice from the store OR you can juice your own pineapples using a juicer OR blender with a strainer. Read more below!

Step 2: Decide How Spicy You Want To Make It

The spicy heat in this version comes from the jalapenos I use. But jalapenos are not the spiciest pepper out there. Not even close. So if you feel up to it, you can make your own spicy simple syrup by swapping the jalapeno peppers for a spicer pepper like:

• chili peppers
• chili de arbol
• cayenne pepper
• scotch bonnet (if you dare)

*Check out a pepper list here and play around with different heat levels.

Step 3: Make Your Spicy Simple Syrup

Most margaritas are made with a simple syrup or sweetener like agave syrup. If you do not like a sweet margarita, read below on what to do.

To make a spicy simple syrup, you need to boil equal parts water to sugar along with 1-3 sliced peppers of choice (jalapenos) until the sugar dissolves and the pepper has released some heat. Then strain and bring to room temperature.

Step 4: Rim Your Glass.

Rimming your margarita glass is a MUST! You have FOUR options here:

1. Use salt. But not just any salt. Coarse sea salt. It makes a difference in texture and flavor.
2. Use sugar. This is for those who love sweeter cocktails.
3. Use tajin seasoning. This is a spicy combo of savory smoky flavors that adds a beautiful touch and taste.
4. Use a combination of two! I prefer salt and tajin. 🙂

Step 5:  Shake well.

Shaking a margarita is essential. It allows your margarita to chill while diluting it a bit. This pineapple margarita also has pineapple juice so shaking it will allow the juice and other ingredients to blend well. Straining the drink isn't a must since we strained to simple syrup already.

Step 6: Garnish.

You put all the effort into making an amazing craft cocktail. Why not put a little more effort to make it look pleasing to the eye? A pineapple wedge or leaf and a few jalapeno slices are the perfect way to tell people what to expect!

Optional Margarita Variations

While I'm obsessed with this spicy pineapple margarita as is, here's a few ways you could customize it if you'd like:

• Beachy vibes: Add a splash of coconut milk or coconut water for a full tropical drink.
• Adjust the heat: Add more or less jalapeno simple syrup according to your spice tolerance. You can muddle the jalapenos for more heat!
• Large batch: Scale this recipe up to serve however many people are at your party! Add all of the ingredients to a large pitcher, stir well, then keep in the fridge until your need it. Be sure to serve with ice! (Add ice last to prevent a watery cocktail.)