Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Spicy Pineapple Mezcal Margarita is a bold and smoky twist on the classic margarita, featuring sweet pineapple juice, fiery jalapeño heat, and the earthy depth of mezcal. Balanced with fresh lime and a touch of agave, this cocktail is complex, refreshing, and unforgettable—perfect for adventurous sippers and lovers of spicy-sweet flavor combinations.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

mezcal
pineapple juice (fresh or 100% juice)
fresh lime juice
orange liqueur (like Cointreau or triple sec)
agave nectar (or simple syrup, to taste)
fresh jalapeño slices
ice
Tajín or chili-lime seasoning (for rimming glass, optional)
pineapple wedges or lime slices (for garnish)

directions

Optional: Rub the rim of a glass with lime and dip in Tajín or chili-lime seasoning.

In a cocktail shaker, muddle a few jalapeño slices (adjust for desired heat level).

Add mezcal, pineapple juice, lime juice, orange liqueur, and agave nectar. Fill with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled.

Strain into an ice-filled glass (on the rocks) and garnish with a pineapple wedge or lime.

Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, smoky heat.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 cocktail.
Preparation time: 5–7 minutes
Total time: 5–7 minutes

Variations

Use tequila instead of mezcal for a milder flavor.
Add fresh pineapple chunks to the shaker for more fruit texture.
Infuse agave with chili for extra depth.
Blend with ice for a frozen version.

storage/reheating

Best served fresh.
You can prep the base mixture (without ice or jalapeños) up to 1 day ahead and store chilled in the fridge.

FAQs

What does mezcal taste like?
It has a smoky, earthy flavor that’s more robust than tequila—perfect with sweet and spicy mixers.

Can I make it less spicy?
Yes, use fewer jalapeño slices or remove the seeds and ribs before muddling.

Is fresh pineapple juice required?
Fresh juice offers the best flavor, but high-quality bottled juice works well too.

Do I have to use orange liqueur?
It adds balance, but you can substitute with a splash of orange juice or skip entirely.

Can I make a pitcher?
Yes, multiply ingredients and muddle jalapeños in advance, then strain and serve over ice.

Conclusion

The Spicy Pineapple Mezcal Margarita is a fiery, smoky, and tropical cocktail that packs a flavorful punch in every sip. Whether you’re mixing for a summer party or sipping solo, this bold drink is sure to turn heads and satisfy your craving for something daring and delicious.