Having lived in Arizona for twelve years, I happen to be the kind of girl who knows her way around a margarita. I’m a margarita purist who knows that unless it includes tequila, orange liqueur and lime, it’s not a real margarita. There are, of course, countless ways to add personality and seasonal flavors to margaritas and my mixologist-inclined husband is a pro at doing just that. Cocktail concoctions are his specialty but when it comes to his margarita creations, this one reigns supreme as my personal favorite. Each sip of this drink brings together all the best flavors of fall. Like most of his margarita recipes, this one is relatively strong (mostly because we both appreciate stiff drinks) but can easily be toned down with the addition of extra lime juice and simple syrup. Whether you enjoy your drinks kicked up or kicked back a notch, I implore you to make this harvest spice margarita before September ends. I bet you ten bucks that you’ll want to drink it through November — best to start now.
Those of you who’ve been around awhile might recognize this recipe; I shared it a few years ago. We recently whipped up our first batch of the fall season for this year and as soon as I took my first sip, I knew I had to revisit the recipe here on the blog. It’s just too good not to. The best way to make your harvest spice margarita is to double (or triple or quadruple for that matter) the recipe and keep some in the freezer to be thawed at a moment’s notice. You’re going to want to sip on these while you watch football next weekend. They go great with chips and guacamole.
I know, I know. Margaritas seem more suited for the summer months. But the same people who would tell you that would also tell you that you can’t wear white pants past Labor Day. And we all know that anything goes these days, right? Really. If you don’t think margaritas would make a welcome addition to your seasonal cocktail repertoire, I challenge you to try this recipe and tell me they aren’t as representative a fall flavor as any. The secret is in the simple syrup my friends. It’s infused with things like allspice and cinnamon stick and vanilla bean and then it mixes and mingles in the shaker with pear liqueur. The result will stun your taste buds.
This harvest spice margarita is the perfect addition to a tailgating or bonfire party. Consider pairing it with white chicken chili or enchiladas. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, please just whip up a pitcher and enjoy one this weekend. You will not regret it — pinky swear.
Harvest Spice Margarita
Ingredients
For the Margarita
- 9 oz. 100% agave tequila
- 6 oz pear liqueur (preferred brand, Drillaund)
- 4 1/2 oz. harvest spice simple syrup (recipe follows)
- 6 oz. fresh-squeezed lime juice
- splash of orange liqueur
For the Harvest Spice Simple Syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 Tablespoon whole cloves
- peels from one pear (preferably organic)
- 1 vanilla bean, sliced lengthwise
- 1 whole nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon allspice berries
- 1/2 cup sugar
Instructions
To make the simple syrup:
- Combine water, cinnamon stick, cloves, pear peels, vanilla bean, nutmeg and allspice berries (if using) in a small, covered saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Remove from heat and allow it to infuse for an hour.
- After an hour has passed, return mixture to heat and add sugar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, just until the sugar is dissolved.
- Strain over a fine mesh colander into a Mason jar.
To make the margaritas:
- Combine tequila, pear liqueur, harvest spice simple syrup and lime juice in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously.
- Pour over ice and add a splash of orange liqueur as a floater just before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 497Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 31mgFiber: 1gSugar: 66gProtein: 0g
You might also enjoy:
