Spicy Mezcal Margarita Recipe for a Bold, Fiery Twist

Updated On: October 15, 2025

There’s nothing quite like a margarita to lift your spirits and add a splash of excitement to any occasion. But when you swap out the traditional tequila for smoky, rich mezcal and add a fiery kick of spice, you take this classic cocktail to a whole new level.

Our Spicy Mezcal Margarita is a bold, vibrant drink that perfectly balances smoky, citrusy, salty, and spicy flavors. It’s the perfect companion for summer evenings, dinner parties, or whenever you want to impress your guests with something unique and delicious.

This recipe is easy to make, uses fresh ingredients, and brings together the warmth of mezcal with the zing of fresh lime and the heat of jalapeño or chili. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just starting your mixology journey, this spicy mezcal margarita will become your go-to recipe when you want something with a bit of a kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First, mezcal offers a complex smoky flavor that sets this margarita apart from the classic tequila version. It’s like a little sip of smoky goodness in every glass.

The addition of fresh jalapeño adds a refreshing but fiery heat that enhances the citrus notes and balances the sweetness perfectly.

The recipe is incredibly flexible — you can adjust the spice level, sweetness, and saltiness to your liking. Plus, it’s easy to shake up in just a few minutes with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a cocktail to enjoy on a quiet night, this spicy mezcal margarita is sure to become a favorite.

Ready to shake things up? Let’s dive into the full recipe!

Ingredients

  • 2 oz mezcal (choose a quality brand for best flavor)
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice (about one lime)
  • 1 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 2-3 slices fresh jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat)
  • Coarse salt for rimming glass
  • Ice cubes
  • Lime wedges and jalapeño slices for garnish

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Jigger or measuring spoons
  • Strainer
  • Rocks glass or margarita glass
  • Citrus juicer (optional but handy)
  • Small plate for salt rim

Instructions

  1. Prepare your glass: Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. Dip the rim into coarse salt spread on a small plate. Set aside.
  2. Muddle the jalapeño: In the bottom of your cocktail shaker, add the 2-3 slices of jalapeño. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently press the slices to release their flavor. Be careful not to over-muddle to avoid too much bitterness.
  3. Add the liquids: Pour in 2 oz mezcal, 1 oz fresh lime juice, 1 oz orange liqueur, and 1/2 oz agave syrup into the shaker with the jalapeño.
  4. Add ice: Fill the shaker about halfway with ice cubes.
  5. Shake well: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
  6. Strain and serve: Using a strainer, pour the cocktail into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice cubes. This will keep the jalapeño seeds and pulp out of your drink.
  7. Garnish: Add a lime wedge and a slice of jalapeño on the rim or floating in the drink for a beautiful presentation and extra zing.
  8. Enjoy responsibly! Sip slowly and savor the smoky, spicy goodness.

Tips & Variations

Want more heat? Leave the jalapeño seeds in or add an extra slice!

If you prefer a less spicy drink, reduce the jalapeño slices or muddle them more lightly. For a sweeter twist, increase the agave syrup slightly or add a splash of fresh orange juice.

You can also experiment with different types of chili peppers, like serrano or even a smoky chipotle infusion, for unique flavor profiles.

For a salt alternative, try rimming your glass with chili powder mixed with salt for an extra spicy kick.

If you’re interested in exploring more exciting recipes, be sure to check out these delicious options:

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 cocktail)
Calories 160 kcal
Carbohydrates 10 g
Sugars 8 g
Alcohol 14 g
Fat 0 g
Protein 0 g

Note: Nutrition values will vary depending on the exact brands and measurements used. Drink responsibly!

Serving Suggestions

This Spicy Mezcal Margarita pairs wonderfully with bold, flavorful dishes. Try it alongside grilled shrimp tacos, spicy guacamole, or a fresh ceviche to complement the smoky and spicy elements of the drink.

If you’re hosting a party, serve it with a colorful Mexican street corn salad or chips with zesty salsa for a festive vibe. The cocktail’s smoky and spicy profile also works well as an aperitif before Mexican-inspired dinners.

For a refreshing twist, serve it with a side of chilled watermelon cubes or a light cucumber salad to cool down the palate between sips.

Conclusion

The Spicy Mezcal Margarita is a seductive cocktail that offers a perfect balance of smoky mezcal, tart lime, sweet agave, and fiery jalapeño heat. It’s a drink that’s as fun to make as it is to drink, bringing a splash of excitement to any occasion.

Whether you’re a mezcal aficionado or new to this smoky spirit, this recipe is approachable and adaptable to your taste preferences.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy to whip up a batch for friends or enjoy a quiet evening with a cocktail that bursts with bold flavors. Don’t forget to experiment with spice levels and garnishes to make it truly your own.

Cheers to memorable moments and delicious drinks!

📖 Recipe Card: Spicy Mezcal Margarita

Description: A smoky and spicy twist on the classic margarita, featuring mezcal and fresh jalapeño. Perfect for those who love a little heat in their cocktails.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M

Servings: 1 serving

Ingredients

  • 2 oz mezcal
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau)
  • 0.5 oz agave syrup
  • 2 slices fresh jalapeño
  • Ice cubes
  • Lime wedge (for garnish)
  • Salt (for rimming glass)

Instructions

  1. Rub lime wedge around glass rim and dip in salt to coat.
  2. Muddle jalapeño slices gently in a shaker.
  3. Add mezcal, lime juice, orange liqueur, and agave syrup to shaker.
  4. Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
  5. Strain mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
  6. Garnish with a lime wedge and an optional jalapeño slice.

Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 0 g | Fat: 0 g | Carbs: 9 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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