I know. It doesn’t seem like the two flavors would play well together. But here in southern Arizona, we take pride in our margaritas. This is no exception.
It came about last weekend when I suggested we enjoy a margarita or two while we were watching the Cardinals game. Never one to turn down a margarita, my husband was easily swayed. When he asked what flavor I wanted, I was teasing when I said pumpkin but it was too late; I had already piqued the curious mixologist in him. He searched for recipes online but wasn’t thrilled with what he found and so he created his own. And though it may be bragging, I will say that he did a fine job indeed. The pumpkin flavor was subtle enough to let the orange liqueur come through, but the warm fall flavors weren’t lost. If you’re looking for a creative cocktail to try this season, let me introduce you to my little friend…
I have to warn you, though, that my handsome husband and I prefer our margaritas to have a kick. In other words, we like to actually be able to taste the tequila. If you prefer your tequila to be more of a behind-the-scenes ingredient, then you’ll definitely want to play around with the ratios until you find a strength/taste that works for you.
pumpkin margarita
Ingredients
For the pumpkin simple syrup:
- 1 c canned pumpkin
- 3/4 c brown sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 c water
For the margaritas:
- 1 1/3 c 100% pure agave tequila (we like the Kirkland brand - silver)
- 1/3 c orange liqueur (we used patron citronge)
- 1 c fresh-squeezed lime juice
- 1 c pumpkin simply syrup (recipe below)
Instructions
- To make pumpkin simple syrup, combine pumpkin, sugar, cinnamon stick and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until the sugar fully dissolves, about fifteen minutes. Strain syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove pumpkin puree (Jeff strained mine twice because I really didn't want any puree in my margarita).
- To make the drinks, combine tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice and pumpkinsimple syrup in a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously to combine.
- Serve over ice. If you're feeling particularly festive, you might consider rimming the margarita glass with cinnamon sugar and serving the drink garnished with a cinnamon stick.