50 Tequila Drinks—Easy Tequila Cocktail Recipes to Mix at Home

We list the popular tequila cocktails on this page. From the Classic margarita variations and the fun tequila sunrise to simple 2 ingredients tequila recipes.

Tequila isn’t just a drink; it’s a journey through Mexico’s rich history. From the blue agave fields to every glass of classic tequila cocktails we order at the bar, there’s a story to tell. Did you know the first tequila was believed to be a gift from the heavens? Yep, a lightning bolt once hit an agave plant, giving us this golden drink. Now, things get even more exciting when it comes to tequila cocktails. Whether you like it straight and easy or mixed into the best drinks, there’s a type for everyone. Maybe you’ve tried the smooth reposado in a cocktail? It’s a favorite for many.

Our top 10 tequila-based drinks: When it comes to drinks with tequila, we have a blend of timeless favorites and exciting new mixes. The Margarita and Tequila Sunrise are our top choices because of their classic tastes. The Paloma and Tequila Sour honor tradition, while the Tequila Daisy and Mexican Mule bring a lively, citrusy, and spicy touch. The classy La Perla, bold El Diablo, and refined Tequini are also on our list. Rounding it out with a straightforward tequila mixed drink is the two-ingredient cocktail: Tequila and Ginger Ale.

50 Best Tequila Cocktails – Classic Recipes

Check out our top picks for cocktails that use different types of tequila! Our production team also created easy-to-follow videos and step-by-step images to help you make these amazing mixed drinks at home. Click on each cocktail to check out the recipes in detail.

Classic Margarita

The Margarita is a classic Mexican cocktail that is tangy and refreshing. It’s typically served in a glass with a salted rim, adding a unique taste to each sip. This drink has been a favorite for many decades, and while its exact origins are debated, some say it was named after a woman named Margarita. However, no one knows if she genuinely existed or if the story was made up to give the drink a romantic flair.

Tequila Sunrise

This visually good-looking drink is known for its layers that resemble a sunrise. The different densities of the ingredients create the gradient effect. It originates from the 1930s in California. The modern version became popular in the 1970s, partly thanks to the song “Tequila Sunrise” by the Eagles.

Paloma

The Paloma, Spanish for “dove,” is a popular cocktail in Mexico. It’s often considered more popular among locals than the internationally famed Margarita. Its refreshing blend of tequila with grapefruit makes it a perfect choice for warm days.

Tequila Sour

This is a twist on the classic “sour” family of cocktails, which includes the Whiskey Sour and Amaretto Sour. These drinks are known for their balance of sweet and sour flavors. This cocktail introduces the unique flavor profile of tequila to this classic mix. 

Tequila Matador

The Matador is a lesser-known cocktail than its famous counterparts, like the Margarita, but it’s equally refreshing. This cocktail is a combination of pineapple and lime. While the origins of its name remain unclear, its bold flavors might remind you of the bravery associated with matadors in bullfighting.

Chavela drink

Chavela is a traditional Mexican beverage often enjoyed during lunch or brunch. It combines beer with tomato juice and spices. The Chavela is served in a chilled, salt-rimmed glass and often accompanied by a shot of tequila on the side. It can be compared with the Bloody Mary but with its unique spin.

El Diablo

The El Diablo is a cocktail with a spicy kick, fitting to its devilish name. It combines the sweetness of crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) with the crispness of ginger beer and the bite of spirit. The cocktail has been around since the 1940s.

Tequini (Tequila Martini)

A Tequini is essentially a Martini but with a twist. Instead of gin or vodka, tequila takes center stage. It’s a modern adaptation of the classic Martini and showcases the versatility of tequila. For those who love Martini’s clean and straightforward appeal, the Tequini is a match made in heaven.

La Perla

La Perla, which means “The Pearl” in Spanish, beautifully marries tequila with the sweet notes of pear liqueur and the dryness of sherry. Its origin can be traced to a renowned mixologist, Jacques Bezuidenhout, who crafted this gem in the early 2000s. The name not only alludes to the drink’s elegance but also to its pearl-like appearance.

Juan Collins

The Juan Collins is a playful twist on the classic Tom Collins drink, substituting gin with tequila. This refreshing drink combines tequila’s depth with the bright effervescence of club soda. Its name, “Juan,” offers a nod to its tequila base, giving it a distinctive Mexican touch while paying homage to the original cocktail.

Toreador

The Toreador is a vintage cocktail that predates the Margarita. It’s an enchanting blend of tequila, apricot brandy, and lime juice with an alluring golden hue. This cocktail might have been lost to time if not for its inclusion in some of the earliest cocktail books. Its name, reminiscent of Spanish bullfighters, suggests passion, flair, and excitement.

Tommy’s Margarita

Tommy’s Margarita is a modern take on the classic Margarita, created at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco during the 1990s by Julio Bermejo. What sets this version apart is using agave nectar as a sweetener instead of triple sec, giving it a more pronounced and authentic agave flavor. 

Tequila Mockingbird

This drink is named after the well-known book “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. This drink is spicy and refreshing, mixing liquor, mint, and a touch of heat from green chili. 

Oaxacan Old Fashioned

The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is a fusion that combines two worlds: the classic Old Fashioned and the flavors of Oaxaca, Mexico. Instead of the traditional whiskey, this drink uses both tequila and mezcal. Mezcal, also originating from Oaxaca, adds a smoky touch, giving this rendition of the Old Fashioned a distinct and memorable character.

Bloody Maria

The Bloody Maria is the tequila-based cousin of the well-known Bloody Mary. This drink swaps vodka and offers a spicy and savory blend perfect for brunch (or as a hangover remedy). 

Cantarito

Cantarito, also known as “Tequila Highball,” is a traditional Mexican cocktail renowned for its refreshing blend of citrus fruits. This drink is served in clay pots (called “cantaritos”) and is a popular choice during festivals in Jalisco, Mexico. The combination of various citrus juices makes it a tangy delight, perfect for sipping on a warm day.

Vampiro

The Vampiro cocktail could be a vampire’s favorite drink with its intense red hue. This Mexican beverage combines the savory elements of Bloody Mary with the unique flavors of orange and grapefruit. It’s a refreshing yet spicy mix, further popularized by its captivating name and vibrant color.

Tequila Fizz

This bubbly and refreshing cocktail is part of the “fizz” family of drinks, like the Gin Fizz or Whiskey Fizz. This cocktail is lightened up with club soda and has a touch of creaminess from an egg white. The egg white gives a silky texture and frothy top.

Bandera

The Bandera, which means “flag” in Spanish, represents the colors of the Mexican flag: green, white, and red. This isn’t a mixed cocktail in the traditional sense but rather a presentation of three separate shots: lime juice (green), tequila (white), and sangrita (a spicy tomato-based chaser, red). 

Tequila Slammer (or Popper)

This is a high-energy drink and is as much about the method of consumption as it is about the ingredients. The drink is made by mixing tequila and a carbonated drink, often lemon-lime soda. To “slam” it, you cover the glass with your hand, slam it down on the table to fizz it up, and then drink quickly. The ritual of the slam followed by the fizzing gulp is a big part of the fun.

Tequila Daisy

It’s believed that the modern Margarita evolved from this very drink. The word “daisy” in cocktail lingo often referred to any drink made with a base spirit, citrus, and sweetener, making this cocktail a classic representation.

Cazuela

The Cazuela, named after the clay pot it’s traditionally served in, is a festive Mexican punch. It’s a refreshing and tangy cocktail bursting with the flavors of various citrus fruits.

Tequila Cooler

This is a simple cocktail perfect for warm days. With a blend of tequila and ginger ale, it offers a delightful balance of the spirit’s robustness with the fizzy and slightly spicy notes of the ginger ale. It’s a go-to drink for a quick and refreshing tequila-based beverage.

Brave Bull

The Brave Bull is a bold and powerful cocktail that combines tequila with coffee liqueur, giving it a robust and rich flavor profile. The name aptly captures the spirit of this drink – strong, daring, and unyielding. For those who appreciate the depth of coffee coupled with the kick of tequila, the Brave Bull is a perfect choice.

Mexican Mule

A cousin to the famous Moscow Mule, the Mexican Mule swaps vodka for tequila, bringing a southwestern twist to the classic. This cocktail is known for its bright, citrusy flavors, complemented by the spicy kick of ginger beer, served in a traditional copper mug.

Rosita

The Rosita is a sophisticated cocktail that offers a blend of liquor with the complexity of vermouths. Given its depth and balance, some consider it a Mexican twist on the classic Negroni. With its beautiful rosy hue, the Rosita is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita

This drink merges the coolness of cucumber with the fiery touch of jalapeño. It’s. It’s a modern twist on the classic Margarita, refreshing with an unexpected spicy kick.

Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita

The Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita blends the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the spicy zest of jalapeño. This cocktail is a taste adventure, moving from sweet to spicy in a single sip. 

Coronarita (Beerita or Mexican Bulldog)

The Coronarita combines the best of two worlds: a Margarita and a Corona beer. As you sip the Margarita, the beer slowly blends into the drink, creating a dynamic and ever-changing taste experience. This cocktails is also called a Beerita or Mexican Bulldog.

Tequila Caipirinha

Brazil’s national drink is the Caipirinha, which they usually make with cachaça. But in the Tequila Caipirinha, they use tequila instead of cachaça. Mixing fresh lime and sugar gives this drink a fresh and tangy taste. It’s a fun mix of Brazilian and Mexican tastes.

Tequila Gimlet

A gimlet is usually made with gin and a bit of lime. But in this cocktail, they use tequila instead of gin. This change highlights the agave taste, which mixes well with the tangy lime. It’s a straightforward drink for those who like clean, pure flavors.

Sandia Smash

“Sandia” means watermelon in Spanish, and the Sandia Smash is a summer cocktail that combines the refreshing qualities of watermelon with the robustness of tequila. Muddled mint leaves add an extra layer of freshness, making it a perfect drink to beat the heat.

Tequila Sunset

This cocktail looks like a stunning evening sky. It’s like the Tequila Sunrise but uses pineapple instead of orange juice. They add blackcurrant syrup or grenadine to give it a special color mix that looks like a calm sunset.

Agavoni (Tequila Negroni)

The Agavoni mixes Italian and Mexican drink styles. It’s like a Negroni but with tequila instead of gin. The drink combines the strong taste of the liquor with the bitter touch of Campari and vermouth. It’s a balanced drink with a deep flavor that many people like.

Prickly Pear Margarita

The Prickly Pear Margarita mixes the sweet and tart taste of prickly pear cactus fruit with a regular Margarita. This drink is bright pink-red and looks as good as it tastes. It’s a cool way to make the usual Margarita more special, making you think of the desert when you drink it.

Passion Fruit Margarita

The Passion Fruit Margarita combines the tropical taste of passion fruit with the usual Margarita ingredients. This mix creates a tangy and sweet drink where you can taste the passion fruit. Its bright yellow-orange color is also a treat for the eyes.

Siesta Cocktail

The Siesta is a cool and balanced drink that mixes tequila with citrus and some bitterness of Campari. The name fits the drink well because it makes you think of a relaxed break like the “siesta” people take in hot places like Spain or Mexico.

Mexican Firing Squad

The Mexican Firing Squad, a classic from the 1930s, is a vibrant red cocktail that mixes lime, grenadine, and a bit of spice from Angostura bitters. It’s a slightly tart drink with a rich history.

Ranch Water

Ranch Water comes from West Texas and is a simple yet very refreshing drink made with tequila, sparkling mineral water, and a splash of lime. It’s perfect for staying cool on a hot day, just like the ranchers it’s named after.

Lone Ranger

The Lone Ranger is a lively cocktail that combines liquor, citrus flavors, and fizz from Rosé Sparkling Wine. It’s an adventurous drink, just like the legendary masked hero it’s named after.

Colletti Royale

Created by Colletti, the Colletti Royale is a luxurious cocktail that combines the boldness of tequila with the elegance of Prosecco or another sparkling wine. A bit of agave nectar adds a subtle sweetness, making every sip feel like a celebration.

White Dragon Cocktail

The White Dragon Cocktail offers an exotic experience, blending tequila’s richness with lychee’s tropical taste. Coconut milk adds a creamy touch, ensuring a flavorful and smooth drink.

Tequila Soda

The Tequila Soda is a simple yet classy drink. It mixes the strong taste of tequila with the fresh taste of soda water. Add a lime or lemon wedge, and have a pure and subtly stylish drink.

Cadillac Margarita

People see the Cadillac Margarita as a fancier version of the regular Margarita. It’s named after the luxury car and is all about treating yourself. The special touch is the Grand Marnier, a top-quality orange liqueur. This addition makes the drink smooth and a bit fancy. Add salt on the rim and a lime wheel, and get a rich, citrusy treat.

Mexican Coffee

The Mexican Coffee is a warm mix of coffee and tequila. It also has some chocolate and cinnamon, making you think of a cozy night by a fire. If you love the deep taste of coffee and the warmth of tequila, this drink is for you. Top it with whipped cream for an extra treat.

Italian Margarita

The Italian Margarita is a mix of Italian and Mexican drink styles. It adds amaretto, an Italian almond-flavored liqueur, to the regular Margarita. This mix creates a drink that’s tangy and sweet. Add a slice of lime, and you have a drink that brings together two lively cultures.

Tequila and Ginger Ale

This drink is simple but tasty. The strong taste of tequila goes well with the spicy taste of ginger ale. Add a slice of lime, and you have a refreshing drink with a bit of a kick.

Danny Ocean Cocktail

The Danny Ocean Cocktail gets its name from the cool character in “Ocean’s Eleven.” It mixes the bright tastes of grapefruit and lime with the strong flavor of tequila. Agave nectar adds a sweet touch. This drink is zesty and fun, great for movie fans.

El Pepino

“El Pepino” means “The Cucumber” in Spanish, and that’s what this drink is all about. It uses fresh cucumber slices with tequila for a cool and strong taste. Lime and elderflower liqueur give it extra flavor. It’s a special drink for hot days or relaxing nights.

Dirty Bird Cocktail

The Dirty Bird combines the boldness of tequila with the richness of Bourbon whiskey. Served as a shot it is perfect for a party night.

Coconut Margarita

The Coconut Margarita feels like a beach trip in a glass. It takes the usual Margarita and adds creamy coconut cream and coconut liqueur. Top it with some toasted coconut, and you get a drink that’s both zesty and calm.

Envy Cocktail

 

The Envy Cocktail stands out with its bright blue color. It mixes the sweet taste of pineapple with deep blue curaçao and tequila. The drink looks and tastes amazing, making every sip feel special.

Watermelon Cocktail

Fresh watermelon and lime juice come together to create this summer-inspired drink. A hint of sweetness makes it a refreshing choice for hot days by the pool.

Tequila Screwdriver

A classic screwdriver gets a twist with a splash of bold spirit instead of vodka. Zesty orange juice keeps it bright and citrusy, perfect for a brunch toast.

Frozen Margarita

This drink takes the traditional Margarita ingredients and turns them into a frosty delight. Lime juice and triple sec blend in a slushy mix, offering a tangy and cool sip for warm afternoons.

Top Tequila Brands to Use in Cocktails

Tequila gives many famous cocktails their kick. The brand you choose and buy can make your tequila-based cocktails even better. Check out our picks for the best tequila brands. We’ve chosen these for their standout quality and flavor, so your tequila creations will be both delicious and memorable.

Patrón

Patrón is a premium tequila brand known for its smooth taste and high-quality production. Made from 100% Weber Blue Agave, it’s distilled in small batches. Its crisp, citrusy Silver tequila is perfect for cocktails like the classic Margarita or the Patrón Paloma.

Don Julio

Don Julio is a very respected name. Their Blanco tequila is clear, fresh, and filled with hints of citrus. It’s a top choice for cocktails like the Tequila Sunrise or the Don Julio Pomegranate Margarita.

Jose Cuervo

Jose Cuervo is one of the most recognized brands globally. Their Especial Gold, with its sweet hint of caramel and fresh agave flavors, is great for mixing in a traditional Margarita or a Cuervo Gold Cooler.

Herradura

Herradura is known for its authentic, traditional spirits. Their Silver type is perfect for cocktails like the Herradura Horseshoe Margarita or a simple Tequila Sour, thanks to its clean taste and spice hint.

El Jimador

El Jimador offers great value with its balanced flavor profile. Their Blanco type, with notes of citrus and vanilla, is ideal for cocktails like the El Jimador Mojito or the El Diablo.

Casamigos

Casamigos, co-founded by George Clooney, is known for its smooth spirits. Their Blanco, with its hints of sweet agave, is a favorite for sipping and cocktails like the Casamigos Margarita or the Casamigos Watermelon Mint Margarita.

Espolòn

Espolòn, with its bold labels, offers a zesty kick to its Blanco. It’s ideal for vibrant cocktails like the Espolòn El Diablo or the Espolòn Batanga, with tropical fruit and vanilla notes.

Avión

Avión prides itself on its meticulous production process. Their Silver, rich with mint, rosemary, and grapefruit flavors, adds depth to cocktails like the Avión Silver Pineapple Margarita or the Avión Espresso Martini.

Types of Tequila

Tequila is made from the blue agave plant, mainly grown near Tequila in Mexico. Different types exist, and each has its taste and way of making. Here is an overview:

• Blanco (Silver): This is unaged in its purest form. It’s clear and captures the natural flavors of the agave. It’s bottled immediately after distillation.
• Reposado: Reposado means “rested” in Spanish. This type is aged in oak barrels for two months to a year, giving it a golden hue and a smooth, mellow flavor.
• Añejo: Añejo means “aged.” This type is aged for one to three years in oak barrels, resulting in a darker color and richer, more complex flavors.
• Extra Añejo: This is a relatively new category, introduced in 2006. Extra Añejo bottles are aged over three years, offering a deep amber color and a highly sophisticated taste.
• Joven (Gold): This is a mix of Blanco and Reposado. Some producers add caramel coloring or other additives to achieve the gold color.
• Mezcal: While not a type, it’s worth mentioning. Mezcal is also made from agave but can be produced from various agave plants. It has a distinctive smoky flavor.
• Cristalino: This is Añejo or Extra Añejo that has been filtered to remove its color but retains the aged flavors.
• Mixto: This type is made with at least 51% blue agave, the remainder being other sugars. It’s less expensive and is commonly used in many mixed drinks.

Canned Tequila cocktails/mixers

Pre-mixed tequila cocktails are a game-changer for those on-the-go moments. They offer the convenience of a ready-to-drink cocktail without the fuss of mixing. Cutwater Spirits makes a Margarita that hits the spot with its tangy taste. Jose Cuervo offers an Authentic Margarita that brings out the classic lime flavor. Onda Sparkling Tequila adds some fizz with flavors like lime and grapefruit.

Tequila Drinks for each season and holiday

Browse our selection of tequila drinks that fit every season and holiday. We have the best cocktails for your summer beach days, fall get-togethers, winter celebrations, and spring picnics.

• Summer Tequila Cocktails – Enjoy a zesty Margarita at a pool party or a fruity Tequila Sunrise on the beach. They’re great for summer barbecues, Fourth of July parties, or chilling on hot days.
• Winter Tequila Cocktails  – Picture yourself sipping a Tequila Hot Toddy by the fire or enjoying a spiced Tequila punch at Christmas or New Year’s Eve parties. They’re perfect for cozy nights or festive winter celebrations.
• Spring Tequila Drinks: Try a floral Tequila cocktail at Easter brunch or a crisp Paloma at a spring garden party. They’re ideal for celebrating new beginnings and the return of warmer days.
• Fall Tequila Drinks: Imagine drinking a Tequila Apple Cider on a cool autumn night or a Pumpkin Tequila cocktail at Halloween or Thanksgiving. These drinks fit perfectly with fall colors and are great for autumn evenings.

More cocktails you’ll enjoy if you like Tequila Cocktails

If you’re a fan of Tequila drinks, you’ll want to try these other cocktails and mixed drinks options. We have a fantastic range of Vodka, Whiskey, Mezcal, and Rum cocktails that will excite your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.

• Vodka Cocktails: These are versatile and often mixed with various ingredients, offering a clean, subtle taste. A popular example is the Bloody Mary, which can also be made with tequila for a twist.
• Whiskey Cocktails: Known for their rich and complex flavors, they’re great for sipping and savoring. The classic Whiskey Sour can be adapted using tequila for a different profile.
• Mezcal Cocktails: These have a distinctive smoky taste, adding depth to any drink. The Mezcal Margarita is a twist on the traditional tequila-based Margarita.
• Rum Cocktails: Sweet and often fruity, these are perfect for tropical-themed drinks. A Mojito, traditionally made with rum, can be creatively mixed with tequila.

FAQs

1. What are some non-alcoholic mixers for tequila? Soda water, tonic, grapefruit, and pineapple juice are popular choices.
2. How can I make my tequila cocktail spicy? Add muddled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
3. How do I sweeten a tequila cocktail naturally? Use agave nectar, honey, or muddled fresh fruit.
4. What kind of glass should I use for tequila cocktails? It varies by cocktail, but common choices are rocks glasses, Margarita, or highball glasses.
5. What fruits pair well? Lime, grapefruit, pineapple, and orange are classic choices.
6. How can I add a smoky flavor to my tequila cocktail? Use a smoky mezcal or add a drop of liquid smoke.

Easy Tequila Cocktails: Tequila Sunrise Recipe (and 49 More!)

Try this classic Tequila Sunrise recipe! You need tequila, orange juice, and grenadine to make this bright cocktail for your sunny get-together.