Autumn Pear Margarita
This Autumn Pear Margarita is a cozy twist on the classic cocktail, blending fresh pear puree, tequila, lime juice, and a hint of cinnamon for a seasonal treat. Perfect for fall gatherings or a quiet night in, this margarita captures the flavors of autumn in every sip. Garnished with a pear slice and cinnamon stick, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Make it a signature drink this season or try the mocktail version for a family-friendly option!
Equipment
- 1 Blender or Food Processor – for making the pear puree
- 1 Fine-Mesh Sieve (optional) – to strain the pear puree for a smoother texture
- 1 Cocktail Shaker – to mix and chill the margarita ingredients
- 1 Measuring Jigger – for precise measurement of tequila, lime juice, and other ingredients
- 1 Margarita Glass – a classic choice for serving
- 1 Small Plate – for rimming the glass with salt or cinnamon-sugar
- 1 Knife and Cutting Board – to slice the pear garnish
- Mixing Spoon (optional) – to stir ingredients if adjusting sweetness or garnish
Ingredients
For the Pear Puree:
- 2 Ripe pears, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp Honey or agave syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- ¼ cup Water
For the Margarita:
- 2 oz Silver tequila
- 1 oz Fresh lime juice
- 1 oz Pear puree (recipe above)
- 1 oz Triple sec or orange liqueur
- 1 dash Ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm hint)
- Ice cubes
For Garnish:
- Sliced pear
- Cinnamon stick or rosemary sprig
- Salt or cinnamon-sugar rim (optional)
- Special Tip: Use ripe, juicy pears like Bartlett or Anjou for the best pear flavor. If you prefer a slightly sweeter margarita, adjust the honey or agave syrup in the pear puree to your liking.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pear Puree
- Dice and Puree: Place the diced pears, honey (if using), and water in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Strain (Optional): For a smoother drink, strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp.
- Store: Set aside the puree or refrigerate if making it in advance. This pear puree can last for up to 3 days in the fridge, making it easy to prepare ahead of time.
Step 2: Prepare the Glasses
- Rim the Glass: If desired, rub a lime wedge around the rim of each glass. Dip the rim in salt or a cinnamon-sugar mixture for an extra pop of flavor.
- Add Ice: Fill each glass with ice cubes to chill.
Step 3: Mix the Margarita
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add tequila, lime juice, pear puree, triple sec, and a dash of cinnamon if you’d like a hint of warmth.
- Shake Well: Add ice to the shaker, then shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine and chill.
- Strain and Pour: Strain the mixture into the prepared glasses over ice.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Add a slice of pear, a cinnamon stick, or a rosemary sprig for a fragrant and festive touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Sip your autumn-inspired margarita and savor the unique blend of flavors that capture the season perfectly.
Notes
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
If you’re planning to serve the Autumn Pear Margarita for a gathering, these make-ahead and storage tips will save you time and help you get the most out of your ingredients:- Prepare the Pear Puree in Advance: The pear puree can be made up to 2–3 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. Give it a quick stir before using, as the puree may settle over time.
- Batch Mixing: To make multiple servings at once, scale up the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher without ice. Keep the pitcher in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, then pour over ice in individual glasses.
- Store Leftover Margarita Mix: If you have extra margarita mix, you can store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly.
- Garnish Ahead of Time: Prepare your garnishes in advance to make serving easier. Slice the pears and prepare the cinnamon sticks or rosemary sprigs, storing them in the fridge in a covered container. Dip the rims of glasses in salt or cinnamon-sugar ahead of time, then set them aside to dry until ready to serve.