Recipe for a spicy Cadillac margarita cocktail made with less sugar, freshly squeezed juice, high-end tequila and Grand Marnier. This is the Cadillac of all spicy margaritas for a good reason. Served in a chile-rimmed wide schooner glass.
Servings: 1
The cadillac of all margaritas served in a chile-lined schooner glass.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup coarse salt
- 1 teaspoon ancho chile powder or other smoky red chile powder
- 2 lime wedges and/or jalapeno slices, divided
- 1.5 oz high-end tequila - I like a good smoky tequila like Sauza Tres Generaciones
- 1 oz Grand Manier Orange Liqueur
- 2 oz lime juice fresh squeezed
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ice cubes to fill
Instructions
- Place the salt and chile powder into a shallow dish. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of the glass and dip into the salt mixture.
- Combine the tequila, Grand Marnier, citrus juice, sugar and ice in a shaker and shake well to combine ingredients.
- Fill the salted glass with ice and strain the margarita over the ice.
- Garnish with lime and serve immediately. To add an extra kick you can also garnish with a thin slice of jalapeno.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cadillac Margarita? A Cadillac Margarita is a premium version of the classic margarita made with high-quality tequila and Grand Marnier (or another top-shelf orange liqueur) instead of the standard triple sec or cheap pre-made sour mix. The name comes from the idea that it's the "Cadillac" — the luxury upgrade — of the traditional margarita.
What's the difference between a Cadillac Margarita and a regular margarita? The main differences are the orange liqueur and the tequila. A standard margarita typically uses triple sec and whatever well tequila is on hand. A Cadillac Margarita uses Grand Marnier, which is a cognac-based orange liqueur with more depth and complexity, paired with a quality reposado or añejo tequila. The result is noticeably smoother and more flavorful.
What tequila is best for a Cadillac Margarita? A reposado or añejo with some smokiness or oak will hold up against the Grand Marnier and fresh lime. Sauza Tres Generaciones is a great choice. Don Julio Reposado, Patrón Añejo, or Casamigos Reposado are all solid options. Avoid silver/blanco tequilas if you want the full Cadillac experience — they tend to get lost behind the citrus.
Can I use Cointreau instead of Grand Marnier in a Cadillac Margarita? Cointreau is a common substitute and makes an excellent margarita, but it's technically a step down from Grand Marnier in a Cadillac. Cointreau is triple sec-based, while Grand Marnier is cognac-based, which gives it a richer, more complex flavor. If Grand Marnier isn't available, Cointreau is the best alternative. Skip anything labeled just "triple sec."
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