Classic Frozen Margarita Recipe

by Yvette Marquez on May 3, 2021

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When the sun is shining and the weather is sultry, there’s no cocktail I’d rather sip on than a Classic Frozen Margarita. Sweet, tart, boozy, and slushy with a salty rim? That right there is my hot weather love language.

Oh, and none of that “margarita mix” nonsense will fly here. We’re talking a REAL, AUTHENTIC, frozen cocktail made with just tequila, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and a touch of agave nectar. As Leonardo da Vinci said, “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” and I couldn’t agree more, especially when it comes to a homemade margarita.

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Why This Recipe Works

While many of you might have become accustomed to buying pre-made margarita mixes at the grocery store, I’m here to stage an intervention. PUT THAT PLASTIC BOTTLE DOWN! This easy recipe for a real, delicious, and authentic frozen margarita takes just five ingredients, one of which is ice.

The bottled mix might shave a few seconds off your margarita prep, but I can guarantee that spending that little bit of extra time is so worth it. Once you try how bright and refreshing a real margarita is, I can basically promise that you’ll be as peeved as I am next time you order a marg at a restaurant and get the artificial pre-mixed junk.

My frozen margarita has only 1/2 ounce of agave syrup and some Cointreau (a.k.a. high-class orange liqueur) to sweeten it, meaning it’s *basically* a skinny margarita. A typical large blended margarita can clock in at more than 500 calories, this homemade margarita has just 300 calories, so you don’t even have to feel bad about reaching for that second one!

Frozen margaritas are also a snap to make. Aside from peeling a lime, there’s no real work involved! Just dump everything into a high-powered blender at let the magic happen. Pretty soon you’ll feel like you’re on the beach digging your toes in the sand.

So, grab your four (4!) cocktail ingredients and your blender and let’s get this fiesta started, shall we??

How to Make a Proper Frozen Margarita

Rub a wedge of lime around the rim of the glass and the dip the outside of the rim of the glass in kosher salt. These are my favorite margarita glasses.

coating a margarita glass with a salted rim

Put the peeled limes into the blender and pour in tequila, Cointreau, and agave syrup.

two limes peeled with margarita ingredients in the background

Top with three cups of ice cubes and blend until smooth and slushy. Add more agave to taste and blend again.

blended frozen margarita being poured into a margarita glass

Pour into the salt-rimmed glass and enjoy! SALUD!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make frozen margaritas ahead of time?

Due to the frozen nature of margaritas, it is not advisable to make them ahead of time. That said, you can absolutely batch the tequila, Cointreau, and agave syrup ahead of time and refrigerate before a fiesta. When that Jimmy Buffet mood strikes, simply add ice and fresh limes in a blender, add blitz it to frosty perfection.

Are margarita machines worth it?

I’m perfectly content using my trusty high-powered blender for my frozen cocktail needs, there may be some among you who are keen to throw big margarita parties or want frozen margs on tap at all times. If this sounds like you, here are some models to consider.

What is the best frozen margarita mix?

Trick answer – NONE! Don’t waste your hard-earned money on containers of HFCS-laden, fake flavored syrups. They are AWFUL! Since when do artificial colors and sweeteners add anything to your cocktail drinking experience? Do yourself a favor and make a REAL margarita by mixing just four simple ingredients – tequila, orange liqueur, limes, and agave. Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you.

What is the best tequila for frozen margaritas?

There are a TON of tequilas on the market nowadays, at all different price points. First, decide whether you are a bigger fan of reposado or blanco tequila. These terms refer to how long the tequila has been aged, which impacts the flavor profile of the spirit. I personally prefer tequila blanco for a classic margarita on the rocks and a reposado tequila for a frozen margarita, but that’s just moi.
Once you know which type of tequila you’re looking for, I recommend defining your price point. I typically reach for Exotico or Tres Agaves, which are lovely mid-range options.

What is the best orange liqueur for making margaritas?

Since the orange liqueur is the primary sweetening agent in this classic frozen margarita, my advice is to go for the good stuff. I like Cointreau, but Grand Marnier or Combier are also very nice options.

Can I flavor my frozen margaritas?

Heck yeah! Feel free to toss in some frozen fruits like berries, mango, or pineapple to replace some of the ice. You can also toy with switching out orange liqueur for other flavored liqueurs instead.

Need more happy hour inspiration?

Check out these other frozen cocktails:

If you tried my recipe for Classic Frozen Margaritas, please rate and review the recipe below!

Do you prefer a margarita on the rocks or a frozen margarita? Let me know in the comments below! Be sure to check out my full length classic and frozen margarita video on YouTube.