Tequila Apple Cider Spritz Recipe

This refreshing Tequila Apple Cider Spritz combines smooth tequila, crisp apple cider, and sparkling water for a light and seasonal cocktail. Perfect for fall entertaining, this easy tequila cocktail pairs fresh apple flavor with a hint of citrus and warm spice.

Fall is my favorite time of year, and nothing pairs better with crisp air, apple recipes, and cozy gatherings than a sparkling seasonal drink. This Tequila Apple Cider Spritz takes the earthy smoothness of tequila, balances it with fresh apple cider and lemon, and finishes with a bubbly splash of sparkling water.

Light, refreshing, and full of fall flavors, it’s a seasonal twist on the classic spritz that feels festive without being too heavy. Whether you’re just enjoying the start of apple season or hosting a Thanksgiving dinner and just want something new to sip, this is the perfect cocktail to add to your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Tequila Apple Cider Spritz

This drink is a seasonal twist on a good margarita, but lighter and more refreshing. The reposado tequila adds a richer taste thanks to its time in oak barrels, while the apple cider and fresh lemon juice bring bright, crisp fall flavors.

If you prefer something closer to a classic margarita profile, blanco tequila works beautifully here, too. Top it with sparkling water, a cinnamon stick, or an apple slice, and you’ve got one of the best apple cider cocktails to sip during your favorite time of year.

Ingredients for a Tequila Apple Cider Cocktail

I used Cazcanes reposado tequila in this recipe, but you can substitute with blanco tequila if you like a brighter flavor profile. Both highlight the apple flavor in different ways, giving you flexibility to match your mood.

Here’s what you’ll need for this fall cocktail:

• Reposado tequila (like Cazcanes) or blanco tequila
• Fresh apple cider or store-bought apple cider (unfiltered apple cider adds the best flavor)
• Fresh lemon juice
• Honey syrup or simple syrup (maple syrup also works for a seasonal twist)
• Sparkling water or club soda
• Garnishes: fresh apple slices, cinnamon stick, or star anise

Optional: a cinnamon-sugar rim on the rim of the glasses, a sprig of rosemary, or even a smoking cinnamon stick for a fun presentation.

How to Make a Tequila Apple Cider Spritz

1. Shake it up: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add tequila (reposado or blanco), fresh apple cider, lemon juice, and honey syrup. Shake well until chilled.
2. Pour and top: Strain into a large wine glass or rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
3. Spritz finish: Top with sparkling water or club soda for a bubbly lift.
4. Garnish: Add fresh apple slices (or an apple rose), a cinnamon stick, or star anise for a festive touch.

Tips for the Best Tequila Apple Cider Cocktail

• Reposado vs. Blanco: Reposado tequila (like Cazcanes) delivers warm, aged notes that complement apple flavors, while blanco tequila creates a brighter, fresher cocktail.
• Choose quality cider: Fresh or unfiltered apple cider is always the best option over apple juice for bold apple flavor.
• Sweetener swap: Honey syrup is my go-to, but agave nectar, maple syrup, or even brown sugar syrup can change the flavor profile.
• Don’t skip the garnish: A cinnamon-sugar rim or fresh apple slices makes your final cocktails look just as good as they taste.

Serving Ideas and Garnish Suggestions

• Shape fresh apple slices into apple roses for an elegant garnish.
• Add a sprig of rosemary for a seasonal twist.
• Rim the margarita glass with a cinnamon-sugar rim or salty rim for extra flavor.
• Try a smoking cinnamon stick for a dramatic presentation.

More Recipes To Try 

Smoked Apple Cider

Frozen Apple Cider Mimosa

Easy Apple Cider Brine Recipe

Hard Apple Cider Bread

Apple Cider Whiskey Smash