Spicy Vanilla Margarita Bliss

A touch of sweetness with a little bit of spice - the perfect "naughty nice" margarita...spicy, sweet, and festive! This unique margarita is made with a homemade vanilla jalapeño honey syrup that adds a delightful kick, combined with tequila, orange liquor, lime juice, and a splash of ginger beer for a refreshing and complex flavor profile.

Spicy Vanilla Margarita Bliss

A spicy and sweet margarita with a homemade vanilla jalapeño honey syrup, tequila, orange liquor, and a splash of ginger beer for a festive and delightful cocktail experience.

4.61 from 93 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 liquor (Cointreau)
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons vanilla syrup
  • ginger beer for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. To make the vanilla jalapeño honey syrup, combine water, honey, jalapeños, ginger, and star anise in a pot and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then let cool, stir in the vanilla, and strain the syrup into a glass jar. This makes enough for 6-8 drinks. The longer the jalapeños sit, the spicier the syrup.
  2. Optionally, rim your glass with salt, then fill with ice.
  3. Combine the tequila, orange liquor, lime juice, vanilla, and vanilla jalapeño honey syrup in a cocktail shaker. Shake well to combine, then fill with ice and shake for 1 minute. Pour into your prepared glass.
  4. Top with ginger beer and garnish with sugared cranberries, if desired.