Name: Mistletoe Margarita
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups orange juice (chilled) (Use freshly squeezed for the best flavor.); 2.5 cups cranberry juice (chilled) (Unsweetened cranberry juice is preferred.); 2 cups 7UP (chilled) (Can substitute with lemon-lime soda.); 2 cups tequila (chilled) (Omit for a non-alcoholic version.); 0.5 cup maraschino cherry juice (chilled) (Adds sweetness.); 0.25 cup lemon juice (Freshly squeezed is ideal.); Cranberries and rosemary sprigs (Optional, for garnish.)

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Gather around for a delightful twist on a classic cocktail! The Mistletoe Margarita seamlessly blends the festive flavors of orange and cranberry, making it an ideal drink for holiday celebrations. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up a batch. Perfect for parties, cozy gatherings, or just a festive night in, this vibrant drink is sure to become a holiday favorite!

Reasons to try it

There are countless reasons to make this Mistletoe Margarita your go-to holiday beverage. Not only is it refreshingly delicious, but it also offers a cheerful burst of color that adds to your festive decor. The combination of tropical orange juice and tart cranberry juice gives this margarita a unique twist that pairs beautifully with any holiday treat. Plus, it’s quick to make and sure to be loved by all ages—just leave out the tequila for the little ones!

"This cocktail was the star of our Christmas party! Everyone loved the mix of flavors and it was so easy to prepare!" – A happy holiday hostess

Preparing Mistletoe Margarita

Getting started with your Mistletoe Margarita is a breeze! First, gather your ingredients and ensure everything is chilled for the best experience. You’ll need a large pitcher or a punch bowl to mix everything together. If you’re planning for a crowd, you can easily scale the recipe up so that everyone can enjoy this vibrant cocktail.

What you’ll need

Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll want to have on hand for the Mistletoe Margarita:

2 ½ cups orange juice (chilled)
2 ½ cups cranberry juice (chilled)
2 cups 7UP (chilled)
2 cups tequila (chilled)
½ cup maraschino cherry juice (chilled)
¼ cup lemon juice
Cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)

Feel free to substitute if you have dietary needs! For instance, if you want a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the tequila and increase the other juices.

Step-by-step instructions

In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine all of the chilled wet ingredients.
Fill the pitcher with ice to keep it refreshing.
Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure everything is combined.
For a festive touch, garnish with cranberries and sprigs of rosemary.
Serve immediately and enjoy each sip!

Best ways to enjoy it

To elevate your Mistletoe Margarita experience, consider serving it in festive glassware. Clear glasses allow the beautiful colors to shine, making every sip a visual treat. Pair it with holiday appetizers like shrimp cocktail or a cheese board to complement the drink’s sweet and tangy profile.

How to store

Should you find yourself with leftovers, it’s best to store any unconsumed Mistletoe Margarita in the fridge for no more than 24 hours. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. However, avoid freezing it as the carbonation from the 7UP could cause it to separate or lose its fizziness. If you must make it in advance, mix everything except the 7UP until you’re ready to serve.

Pro chef tips

Chill all your ingredients ahead of time to keep the drink refreshing without needing too much ice.
Double the batch if you’re hosting a large gathering—this recipe is easily scalable.
Experiment with garnishes! Besides cranberries and rosemary, consider adding a sugared rim to your glasses for an extra festive touch!

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Try infusing your Mistletoe Margarita with flavors like peach or pineapple by swapping out some of the orange juice. For a spicy kick, incorporate jalapeño slices or a splash of ginger beer. You can also explore using flavored tequilas for an exciting twist!

Common questions

How long does it take to prep this recipe?
Prep time is minimal! You can have your Mistletoe Margarita ready in about 15 minutes.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?
You can mix the juices and tequila beforehand but wait until just before serving to add the 7UP to keep the fizz.

Is there a non-alcoholic option?
Absolutely! Just leave out the tequila and boost the juices for an equally festive mocktail.

By embracing the festive spirit with this Mistletoe Margarita, you’re sure to light up your gatherings and spread holiday cheer with each sip!