Skip to content
Warm Apple Cider Margarita (The One That Swings Both Ways 🍎🍹)

Warm Apple Cider Margarita (The One That Swings Both Ways 🍎🍹)

Jan 09, 2026

Winter cocktails don’t have to be complicated — or exclusive. This Warm Apple Cider Margarita is my go-to cold-weather drink because it does double duty: a cozy, spiced apple cider everyone can enjoy, and a smooth winter margarita for those who want it.

Whether you’re participating in Dry January, hosting friends with mixed drinking preferences, or just craving something warm and comforting, this recipe checks every box. One base. Two options. Zero pressure.

🍎 Warm Spiced Apple Cider Base (Alcohol-Free)

This is where it all starts — and it’s completely kid-friendly and non-alcoholic.

Ingredients

  • Fresh apple cider

  • 1 orange, sliced into rounds

  • 2 cinnamon sticks

Method

  1. Pour apple cider into your coffee pot carafe.

  2. Add orange slices and cinnamon sticks.

  3. Place the carafe on the warming plate only — do not brew it through the coffee maker.

  4. Let it warm slowly, stirring occasionally.

✨ Why the Coffee Pot Works

The warming plate keeps the cider at the perfect temperature — warm, never boiling. It’s hands-off, smells incredible, and stays alcohol-free so kids, Dry January participants, or anyone skipping alcohol can enjoy it guilt-free.

Honestly? This cider alone is reason enough to make the recipe.

🍹 Turning It Into a Winter Margarita (Per Glass)

When you’re ready to pivot from cozy cider to cocktail hour, this is where the magic happens.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Cazcanes Tequila

  • Warm spiced apple cider (from above)

  • Splash of Cointreau

  • Fresh apple slice (for garnish)

Method

  1. Add tequila to a heat-safe mug or glass.

  2. Fill with warm spiced apple cider.

  3. Add a splash of Cointreau.

  4. Garnish with a fresh apple slice (and a cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy).

❄️ Why This Works (Especially in Winter)

  • Reposado-style tequila brings soft vanilla and oak that pair beautifully with warm spices

  • Apple cider replaces lime juice for a smoother, winter-ready margarita profile

  • Orange from both the cider and Cointreau ties everything together

The result is comforting, slightly unexpected, and perfect for cold nights when traditional margaritas just don’t sound right.

One Batch, Two Audiences

This is the kind of drink that makes hosting easy — or solo nights feel intentional. Serve the cider as-is for Dry January or family-friendly sipping, then quietly spike your own when the mood hits.

No separate recipes. No awkward explaining. Just a warm winter drink that adapts to you.

Tiffany Jehorek