Mexico is a country famous for its rich history, colorful culture, and of course, its delicious cuisine. But what many people may not know is that Mexico is also home to some of the most incredible cocktails in the world.
From refreshing tequila-based drinks to spicy mezcal concoctions, Mexican cocktails are a true celebration of the country's vibrant flavors and traditions.
But what makes Mexican cocktails so special? For starters, many of them are made with unique ingredients that are only found in Mexico, such as cactus fruit, hibiscus flowers, and tamarind.
These ingredients not only give the cocktails a distinct flavor profile, but they also reflect the diversity and richness of Mexican culture.
But it's not just the ingredients that make Mexican cocktails stand out. It's also the way they are made and served. Many Mexican cocktails are served in traditional clay or glassware, which adds to the overall experience and makes it feel like you're sipping on a piece of Mexican history.
And let's not forget about the garnishes – from chili peppers to fresh herbs, Mexican cocktails are often adorned with beautiful and flavorful garnishes that add an extra layer of complexity to the drink.
So whether you're a fan of tequila, mezcal, or just love trying new and exciting cocktails, Mexican cocktails are a must-try.
In this blog post, we'll be exploring some of the best Mexican cocktail recipes that are sure to transport you to the colorful streets of Mexico and leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied. So grab a glass and let's get mixing!
1. Mexican 75
The Mexican 75 is a delightful twist on the classic French 75 cocktail, perfect for any celebration. This cocktail combines the tangy flavors of lime juice and tequila, finished off with a splash of bubbly to give it a refreshing kick. The rim of the champagne flute can be coated with either salt or sugar, depending on your preference.
This cocktail is best served in an 8 oz. champagne flute, making it a perfect addition to any party or gathering. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to impress your guests, the Mexican 75 is definitely worth a try.
2. Mexican Candy Shot
The Mexican Candy Shot is a spicy and fruity cocktail that mimics the taste of the popular Mexican candy, paleta. This cocktail has been around for over a decade and is still loved by many. The basic ingredients include fresh juices or a pucker, hot sauce, and an alcoholic drink, with tequila being the preferred choice.
The drink is often made with ingredients that mimic the taste of the candy, such as watermelon pucker or fruit juices like mango, strawberry, or lime, and hot sauce like Tabasco. The cocktail is meant to be spicy and fruity, and it's a perfect addition to any party or gathering. The Mexican Candy Shot is a must-try for anyone who loves a good cocktail with a unique twist.
3. Ginger Paloma Cocktail
The Ginger Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing and zingy twist on the classic Paloma cocktail. Instead of grapefruit soda, this cocktail uses ginger beer to give it a stronger flavor. Fresh grapefruit juice is added to keep the traditional Paloma flavor intact.
This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting, while still enjoying the classic flavors of a Paloma. It's easy to make and perfect for a Cinco de Mayo celebration or any other occasion. So, if you're looking for a delicious and unique Mexican cocktail, give the Ginger Paloma a try!
4. The Michelada
The Michelada is a popular beer cocktail in Mexico that is perfect for a hot day or as a hangover cure. This versatile drink has many variations, with some regions using Clamato juice or Maggi seasoning, while others prefer tomato juice.
The name itself has an interesting history, with some claiming it was invented during the Mexican revolution by General Don Augusto Michel. Regardless of its origins, the Michelada is a refreshing and tasty drink that is perfect for those who enjoy a little spice in their beer. If you're looking to try something new and exciting, the Michelada is definitely worth a try.
5. Charro Negro Drink
Charro Negro is a Mexican cocktail that balances sweet, strong, salty, and bitter flavors. It's a twist on the classic Cuba Libre cocktail, substituting rum with tequila and sometimes served with a salted rim. The name comes from a legend of a black cowboy who appears at dusk, offering unsuspecting prey gold coins.
The cocktail is perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up, but be warned, it is strong yet sweet, so it is best to stick to one. If you are looking for a unique and flavorful Mexican cocktail, Charro Negro is definitely worth trying.
6. Cherry Matador Cocktail
The Cherry Matador Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for Cinco de Mayo or any summer party. Made with tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice, and maraschino cherry juice, this cocktail is a fun alternative to the classic margarita. The bright red color of the drink is eye-catching and the addition of a maraschino cherry and lime slice as garnish adds a touch of elegance.
The Corridor Bar from BDI Furniture is recommended for making this cocktail, as it provides ample storage for all your bar utensils, supplies, liquor, and glasses. Overall, the Cherry Matador Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican cocktail.
7. Mexican Martini
The Mexican Martini is a margarita with a twist, and it's a must-try for anyone who loves a good cocktail. This drink is made with all the classic margarita ingredients, but with a splash of olive juice added to give it a unique flavor. The cocktail is shaken with ice and served in a salt-rimmed martini glass with a skewer of olives as a garnish.
The Mexican Martini is a refreshing, sweet and salty drink that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating Cinco de Mayo or just want to try something new, this cocktail is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
8. Paloma Cocktail
The Paloma is a refreshing and boozy tequila-based cocktail that combines the zesty flavors of lime and grapefruit with a touch of bitterness. It's a popular Mexican drink that's easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients.
The drink is typically served with a rim of Tajin, a chili lime seasoning, which adds an extra kick to the already vibrant flavors. Overall, the Paloma is a delicious and versatile cocktail that's perfect for any occasion.
9. Spicy Mexican Martini
The Spicy Mexican Martini is a refreshing twist on the classic margarita. This tequila-based cocktail includes jalapeno slices, olive brine, and fresh lime juice, giving it a spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds. The recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it perfect for novice home bartenders.
This cocktail is perfect for those who love a little heat in their drinks and are looking for something different than the usual margarita. So, if you're in the mood for a spicy and refreshing cocktail, the Spicy Mexican Martini is definitely worth a try.
10. Tequila Mule
The Tequila Mule is a refreshing and balanced twist on the classic Moscow Mule. This cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet, citrusy, slightly spicy, and fizzy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The key ingredients include tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, agave, and ginger beer, which are combined to create a delightful concoction that is perfect for any occasion.
This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the world of Mexican cocktails, and it is sure to become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. So, if you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, the Tequila Mule is definitely worth a shot!
11. Cantarito
If you're looking for a refreshing and fun cocktail to enjoy with your favorite Mexican dish, look no further than the Cantarito. This classic Mexican cocktail features tequila, fresh grapefruit, orange, and lime, and is topped off with bubbly grapefruit soda.
The combination of tart and sweet flavors make for a delicious and satisfying drink, perfect for a warm summer day or a night out with friends. Traditionally served in clay cups, the Cantarito adds an earthy taste to the mix, but can also be enjoyed in a regular glass. Whether you're a fan of tequila or just looking for a new cocktail to try, the Cantarito is definitely worth a taste.
12. Mexican Mule
The Mexican Mule is a refreshing and crisp cocktail that's perfect for a hot summer day. Made with good quality tequila, fresh lime, and ginger beer, this cocktail has a distinct agave complexity that sets it apart from other mule cocktails.
The addition of fresh ginger adds a warm and earthy flavor that complements the tequila perfectly. The best part? It's made in the glass, so there's no need for fussy shakers or strainers. Just mix and enjoy. The Mexican Mule is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a light and refreshing drink with a little kick.
13. Carajillo
Carajillo is a popular after-dinner cocktail that originated in Spain and has become a favorite in Mexico. This two-ingredient drink is made with hot coffee and Licor 43, a sweet Spanish liqueur that adds a complex flavor profile of vanilla, chocolate, and citrus notes to the rich and bitter coffee.
The Spanish version of Carajillo uses brandy, while the American version, called Spanish coffee, uses burnt sugar and rum. The Carajillo is a fantastic dessert drink that is perfect for sipping on after a meal. If you're looking for a unique and delicious coffee cocktail, the Carajillo is definitely worth a try.
14. Margarita
Margarita is a classic Mexican cocktail that is tangy, slightly sweet, and complex in flavor. It is made with fresh lime juice and good quality tequila. The Best Margarita Recipe is simple yet packed with flavor.
It is a boozy and limey drink that is balanced with a hint of sweetness and salt. Margaritas can be served on the rocks or blended, making them perfect for any occasion.
15. Mexican Paloma Cocktail
The Mexican Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing tequila-based drink that is beloved in Mexico. Made with fresh grapefruit juice and sparkling grapefruit water, this cocktail is perfect for those who are looking for a healthier drink option without sacrificing flavor.
While traditionally topped with grapefruit soda, this recipe opts for a more health-conscious approach by using sparkling water instead. For those with a sweet tooth, a teaspoon of agave can be added. The use of ruby red grapefruits in this cocktail makes it a perfect winter drink. If you're a fan of tequila-based cocktails, the Mexican Paloma is definitely worth trying.
16. Paloma
The Paloma is a refreshing and fruity Mexican cocktail that is perfect for summer. Made with tequila, fresh lime juice, and grapefruit juice, this cocktail is traditionally served on the rocks with grapefruit-flavored soda or club soda. However, it can also be made with Fresca or Squirt.
The Paloma is a popular alternative to the classic margarita in Mexico and is incredibly easy to make at home. There are also many variations of the Paloma recipe that you can try to add your own twist to this classic cocktail. If you're looking for a fun and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for a summer day, the Paloma is definitely worth a try.
17. Michelada Cocktail
The Michelada Cocktail is a refreshing and flavorful Mexican beer cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. It is a simple yet delicious mix of beer, lime juice, salt, and an assortment of sauces, including Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and seasoning sauce.
The cocktail is typically served in a glass beer mug that has been frosted in the freezer and rimmed with salt or a crushed pepper mix. It can be enjoyed with or without toppings, such as cucumber slices, celery stalks, or jalapeños. The Michelada Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and refreshing drink that is sure to impress.
18. Cantaritos
If you're a fan of tequila-based cocktails, then you must try Cantaritos. This Mexican drink is a refreshing and citrusy twist on the classic Paloma cocktail. It's made with tequila, grapefruit soda, orange juice, lemon juice, and lime juice, and traditionally served in a clay cup known as a Cantarito. The clay cup adds a unique touch to the drinking experience, making it feel like you're sipping on a drink straight from Mexico.
The combination of citrus juices and grapefruit soda creates a complex and delicious flavor that will leave you wanting more. Don't have a Cantarito cup? No worries, you can still enjoy this drink in a highball glass. If you're looking for a new tequila-based cocktail to add to your repertoire, then Cantaritos is a must-try.
19. Mezcal Paloma
The Mezcal Paloma is a must-try cocktail for those who love the smoky flavor of mezcal. This spin on the classic Paloma cocktail combines the sweetness of grapefruit juice with the tartness of lime and the bubbly soda water.
The addition of mezcal adds a subtle smokiness to the drink, making it a perfect balance of sweet, tart, salty, and smoky flavors. The mezcal Paloma is easy to make and is perfect for sipping during cocktail hour or any time you want a refreshing and unique drink. If you're a fan of mezcal, this cocktail is definitely worth adding to your collection.
20. Chelada Beer Cocktail
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to try this summer, look no further than the Chelada Beer Cocktail. Originating in Mexico, this beer cocktail combines a light lager with lime juice and a hint of saltiness, making it the perfect drink to keep you cool on a hot day.
While some purists argue against adding ice, we say go ahead and enjoy this drink however you like it best. Whether you're looking for a hangover cure or simply a delicious drink to sip on, the Chelada Beer Cocktail is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast. So why not give it a try and see for yourself what all the fuss is about?
21. Michelada
If you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful Mexican cocktail, then the Michelada is a must-try. This classic cocktail is made with light Mexican beer, Clamato juice, hot sauce, lime juice, and various salsas. It's a perfect drink to serve at parties or to enjoy on hot summer days.
The combination of salty, spicy, and umami flavors make it a unique and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. The Michelada is a perfect alternative to a Bloody Mary, with less alcohol and a more refreshing taste. If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, then you won't want to miss out on this tasty cocktail.
22. Spicy Paloma Cocktail
The Spicy Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing and tangy drink that combines a margarita and a greyhound cocktail, with a spicy kick from jalapeño simple syrup.
It's a popular drink in Mexico, but not well known in the US, making it a great drink to impress your friends. The jalapeño simple syrup adds a unique twist to the classic Paloma cocktail, giving it a spicy flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
23. Classic Chelada
The Classic Chelada is a refreshing beer cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. It infuses Mexican beer with fresh lime juice and a salty rim, creating a tangy and zesty flavor that is hard to resist. This cocktail is a type of cervesa preparada, which means prepared beer in Spanish, and is a popular drink in Mexico.
The salt rim is essential to the overall flavor and helps to bring out the sour flavors of the lime-infused beer. The Chelada is perfect for a laid-back brunch, cocktails on the patio, or a dinner of shrimp tacos. It pairs well with food and is meant to be enjoyed with a meal. If you love Mexican-style drinks, the Classic Chelada is a must-try.
24. Spicy Jalapeno Margarita
If you're looking to add some heat to your cocktail game, the Spicy Jalapeno Margarita is a must-try. This twist on the classic margarita packs a punch with a few slices of jalapeno pepper, adding a perfect balance of tangy and spicy flavors.
Unlike many margaritas that are loaded with added sugar, this recipe uses Cointreau to add a hint of sweetness without being overpowering. You can customize the level of heat to your liking, making it a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Whether you're sipping it on its own or pairing it with savory food, the Spicy Jalapeno Margarita is sure to impress.
25. Mezcal Margarita
The Mezcal Margarita is a smoky twist on the classic margarita. Made with mezcal, lime juice, and agave syrup, this Mexican cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious drink.
The smokiness of the mezcal adds a whole new dimension to the classic margarita, making it a refreshing and flavorful choice. Give it a try and experience the bold and delicious taste of mezcal for yourself!
26. Jade Mezcal Margarita
The Jade Mezcal Margarita is a unique and complex twist on the classic Mexican cocktail. Made with joven mezcal, fresh ginger root, green jalapeño, clementine juice, and dinosaur kale, this cocktail is both refreshing and bold.
The smoky flavor of the mezcal pairs well with the bright flavors of the ginger and clementine, while the kale adds a subtle bitterness and a gorgeous jade color. This cocktail is perfect for those looking for a more nuanced and layered flavor profile in their drinks. If you're a fan of bitter cocktails like the Negroni or Aperol spritz, the Jade Mezcal Margarita is definitely worth a try.
27. Frozen Strawberry Margaritas
Looking for a refreshing and fruity cocktail to enjoy during the summer months? Look no further than the Frozen Strawberry Margarita! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this cocktail is quick and easy to make at home.
The combination of sweet strawberries, tangy lime juice, and smooth tequila make for a delicious and balanced flavor profile. Plus, the frozen texture makes it the perfect drink to cool down on a hot day. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or just looking for a fun cocktail to enjoy with friends, the Frozen Strawberry Margarita is a must-try.
28. The Paloma
The Paloma is a refreshing and easy-to-make Mexican cocktail that blends tequila, grapefruit, and lime. It's a great option for those who want to enjoy a tequila-based drink without feeling overwhelmed by its strong flavor.
The Paloma is perfect for any occasion and its light and refreshing taste make it a great choice for those hot summer days or when you need a break from the traditional margarita. Overall, The Paloma is a must-try for anyone who loves tequila-based cocktails.
29. Spicy Aperol Paloma
The Spicy Aperol Paloma is a unique twist on the classic Mexican cocktail. This adventurous drink combines the zesty orange notes of Aperol with fresh grapefruit and lime juice, and a spicy kick from Thai chiles.
The chiles are soaked in Aperol for 8 hours to provide the perfect level of spice. The cocktail is garnished with a candied Thai chile or dried citrus slices, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. If you love cocktails with character and spice, the Spicy Aperol Paloma is a must-try.
30. Classic Fresh Grapefruit Paloma
The Classic Fresh Grapefruit Paloma is a refreshing alternative to the classic margarita. This Mexican cocktail is made with tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, fresh lime juice, club soda, and simple syrup. The combination of sweet and sour flavors makes it a perfect drink for a hot summer day.
The chili salt rim adds a little bit of heat to the cocktail, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a spicy kick. If you're looking for a new way to enjoy tequila, the Classic Fresh Grapefruit Paloma is definitely worth a try.
