Relax with our simple Tequila Cooler recipe! The blend of Tequila, fresh lime juice, soda water, and a dash of simple syrup makes it an ideal drink for the spring season.
Prep time:
1 minute
Mixing time:
1 minute
Servings:
1
Calories:
195
Ingredients
- 2 oz Silver Tequila
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- ¾ oz simple syrup
- 3-4 oz soda water - to top up
- Ice cubes
- Lime wheel or wedge - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Highball Glass
- Measuring Jigger
- Shaker
- Cocktail Strainer
- Stirrer or Bar Spoon
Instructions
- Prep Glass: Fill a Highball glass with ice cubes. Give it a stir to chill it and set it aside.
- Add Simple Syrup: Measure and pour ¾ oz simple syrup into the shaker.
- Add Lime Juice: Squeeze 1 oz fresh lime juice into the shaker as well.
- Add Tequila: Add 2 oz Silver Tequila to the mix.
- Shake Well: Fill the shaker with ice, close it, and give it a good shake (10-15 seconds).
- Strain: Take the Highball glass and use the cocktail strainer to remove any excess water inside. Add more ice if necessary and strain the drink from the shaker into the ice-filled glass.
- Top with Soda: Top up the glass with approx. 3-4 oz soda water, adjusting to taste and to the size of the glass, and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge and serve immediately.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Tequila: If you don't have Tequila on hand, you can use vodka or gin as a substitute. It won't have the same flavor profile but will still make a refreshing drink. For a smoky twist, try using Mezcal instead of Tequila.
- Lime Juice: Bottled lime juice can work in a pinch if fresh limes aren't available. However, I always recommend fresh when possible for the best flavor. Fresh lemon juice can also be used to make this drink if you happen to have lemons on hand.
- Simple Syrup: If you're out of simple syrup, you can make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over low heat. Alternatively, agave nectar is a great substitute that pairs well with Tequila.
Making a Pitcher of Tequila Cooler:
- Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 16 oz of Tequila, 8 oz of lime juice, and 6 oz of simple syrup.
- Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the Tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir well.
- Serve: Pour the mixture into ice-filled highball glasses, top with soda water, garnish with a lime wheel or wedge, and serve immediately. If you have some leftovers, be sure to keep it in the fridge in an airtight container. It should be kept for about 3 days.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Tequila Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic tequila substitute; several brands are available that mimic Tequila's flavor quite well. Otherwise, you can use fresh orange juice as a substitute. You can also try making your own substitute by mixing together water, a pinch of smoked salt, a splash of tonic, and a bit of agave syrup (to taste).
- Proceed As Usual: Use this non-alcoholic substitute instead of the regular Tequila, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version.
Making it Vegan:
The Tequila Cooler cocktail is naturally vegan as it doesn't contain any animal products. Most spirits, including Tequila, are vegan-friendly (although it is always a good idea to check the brand's website for safety).What is a Tequila Cooler?
A Tequila Cooler is a long drink made of Tequila, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and soda water. It’s not difficult to make as it only requires three main ingredients and some simple steps: mixing the Tequila with the citrus juice and sugar and then topping it off with soda water. This refreshing drink is perfect for summer parties or any casual gathering.
What is a Tequila Cooler made of – The ingredients
Follow our uncomplicated steps to make a delicious Tequila Cooler:
- Tequila: The primary spirit in the cocktail, it provides a distinctive flavor and kick.
- Lime Juice: Adds a tart, citrusy note that balances the Tequila’s strong taste.
- Simple Syrup: Sweetens the drink and helps mellow out the lime juice’s sharpness.
- Club Soda: Topped off to add fizziness and dilute the intense flavors, making the cocktail more sippable.
- Ice Cubes: Chills the drink and dilutes the intense flavors over time.
- Lime Wheel or Wedge (for garnish): Enhances presentation and adds an extra hint of flavor when sipped.
