Hibiscus Margarita Recipe

Originating from a rich cocktail culture, the margarita has always been one of my favorite cocktails. I love experimenting with different flavors and variations of this classic cocktail–like this 4-ingredient lemon margarita!

This variation has quickly become a staple in my cocktail-making arsenal. I love serving it to my guests because it always has a wow factor and is incredibly easy to make. Another hibiscus cocktail I make is my gin sour; it’s so good!

The hibiscus adaptation fits seamlessly within the family of refreshing cocktails, providing a unique twist with its lemony tang. It’s an excellent option for anyone exploring tequila cocktail variations.

Also, check out my pink cocktails and more tequila cocktails! 

Hibiscus Margarita Ingredients

The choice of ingredients directly impacts the quality and flavor of your margaritas:

Tequila: Opt for blanco or silver tequila, which has sweet and peppery notes that complement the tartness of hibiscus. You can use that if you only have gold tequila on hand. 

Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is crucial for the best flavor; do not substitute with bottled juice.

Cointreau or Grand Marnier: This orange liqueur adds a sweet citrus depth, essential for balancing the drink’s tart components.

Dried Hibiscus Flowers: Also known as “jamaica” in Spanish, they are essential for creating the hibiscus margarita’s vibrant color and tart flavor. You can easily purchase these dried hibiscus flowers online, at Latin American markets, and even at tea shops.

Hibiscus Simple Syrup: Made from dried hibiscus flowers, this homemade syrup imparts a striking pink hue and a floral note to the margarita.

Margarita Salt: Use coarse margarita salt for rimming the glass, adding texture, and enhancing the overall sip experience.

Homemade Hibiscus Syrup

This simple hibiscus syrup elevates the cocktail and gives it a deeper flavor and beautiful coloring. It’s easy to make, just like my simple syrup recipe, and the best part is that it’s made with just three ingredients and simmers for a few minutes–and then you have a delicious flavored syrup perfect for cocktails! I use this syrup to make a hibiscus mojito, too.

Tips and Recipe Variations

• Shake with ice for 20 seconds to properly dilute.

• Make a mocktail version, by omitting the tequila and Triple Sec and replacing them with a zero-proof tequila and orange juice. 

• Crushed hibiscus flowers around the rim, mixed with salt, add a unique touch.

• Club soda can lighten the intensity.

• For a vivid pink, utilize pink ice cubes. 

• Make this drink by mixing the ingredients and storing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, shake with ice and pour into glasses.

• Make dehydrated orange wheels to garnish the drink.

• Incorporate elements like sparkling water for effervescence, or garnish with mint, orange peels, or berries for added flavor depth.

How to Rim a Glass with Salt

1. Take a small plate or saucer and spread a layer of coarse salt across it.
2. Run a lime wedge around the glass’s edge, ensuring moisture covers the entire rim.
3. Invert the glass and press the rim into the salt.
4. Rotate the glass gently to coat the rim evenly.
5. Lift the glass and shake lightly to discard excess salt.