Cara Cara Margarita Recipe
Let's celebrate winter citrus season in the best way possible -- with this Cara Cara margarita! Made with freshly squeezed Cara Cara orange juice, this winter citrus margarita balances the perfect sweet and tart combination for one refreshing cocktail.
How to Make the Best Cara Cara Margarita
Winter margaritas don’t have to be complicated to be delicious. This Cara Cara margarita is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the best. The star of this drink is fresh Cara Cara orange juice—a winter citrus fruit known for its deep red color and sweet, berry-like flavor notes. Combined with premium tequila and a splash of orange liqueur, it creates a margarita that’s refreshingly different from the typical lime-forward versions.
Why Cara Cara Oranges?
Cara Cara oranges are a special winter treat available from December through April. Unlike regular navel oranges, they have a distinctive pink-red flesh and a more complex flavor profile that includes subtle berry and floral notes. This makes them perfect for cocktails where you want something more interesting than a standard citrus margarita.
Making the Perfect Balance
The key to this margarita is balancing the sweetness of the Cara Cara juice with the tartness of lime juice and the warming notes of reposado tequila. The orange liqueur ties everything together, adding depth and complexity. Whether you garnish with salt or skip it entirely, this is one cocktail that celebrates the season in style.
Cara Cara Margarita
Let's celebrate winter citrus season in the best way possible -- with this Cara Cara margarita! Made with freshly squeezed Cara Cara orange juice, this winter citrus margarita balances the perfect sweet and tart combination for one refreshing cocktail.
Ingredients
Main Cocktail
Garnish (Optional)
Instructions
Prepare
- In a cocktail shaker, add the tequila, Cara Cara orange juice, orange liqueur, simple syrup, lime juice and a handful of ice.
- Put on the top and shake until cold, about 30 seconds.
Rim and Serve
- If desired, pour sea salt onto a small plate. Moisten the rim of the serving glass with an extra lime slice and then swirl the rim in the salt.
- Strain the margarita into an ice-filled serving glass. Garnish with additional lime and Cara Cara orange slices. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed Cara Cara orange juice for the best flavor. If unavailable, fresh blood orange juice is a good substitute.
- Make your own simple syrup by mixing equal parts sugar and water, heating until dissolved, then cooling.
- The rim is optional—use it for added sophistication and flavor balance.