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This Hot Honey Spicy Mango Margarita is everything you crave on a blazing summer afternoon—icy cold vibrant mango perfectly blended with fiery honey and a tangy splash of citrus. The first time I stirred up this cocktail I had friends over for taco night and it completely stole the show. It is a drink you will make again and again as soon as sunny days roll back around.
My first sip of this margarita instantly transported me to vacation mode and now my friends request it every time they visit. The way the sweet mango meets a hint of fire from the honey is pure cocktail magic.
Ingredients
- Mango chunks: Choose ripe sweet mangoes for the brightest flavor Frozen works well and is convenient
- Water: Just enough to loosen the puree and help it blend smooth
- Sugar: Enhances the mango’s natural sweetness Use superfine or dissolve regular sugar well
- Tequila: Silver tequila keeps it bright and fresh Always use a good quality spirit for the base
- Lime juice: Fresh is best for a tangy balance to the sweet and spicy elements Pick limes that feel heavy for their size
- Cointreau: This orange liqueur gives complexity and a classic margarita touch Triple sec is a good substitute
- Hot honey: Adds spicy warmth that lingers but does not overpower Use a favorite hot honey brand
- Chili lime seasoning: Lively tangy and a little spicy for the glass rim Brands like Tajin work perfectly
- Lime wedges and extra mango for garnish: Use for aroma and a burst of color Pick firm mangoes for neat slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Mango Puree:
- Blend mango chunks with water and sugar in a high-speed blender until completely smooth The puree should be thick but easily pourable so add a splash more water if needed
- Prep the Glass:
- Pour chili lime seasoning on a small plate Run a fresh lime wedge around the rim of your preferred cocktail glass to help the seasoning stick Press the upside-down glass firmly into the seasoning so the rim is evenly coated
- Add the Ice:
- Fill your rimmed glass three quarters full with ice cubes to be ready for the pour
- Shake the Cocktail:
- In a cocktail shaker measure in tequila lime juice Cointreau mango puree and hot honey Secure the lid and shake vigorously for fifteen to twenty seconds The outside of the shaker should start to feel cold
- Pour and Garnish:
- Strain the margarita into your prepared glass over ice Garnish with a fresh lime wedge and several mango slices rolled gently in chili lime seasoning
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My favorite part of this drink is always the chili lime rim. I still remember my brother daring me to make it even spicier and it really made all the flavors jump. Adding a little more hot honey than usual turned out to be the key to getting just the right tingle.
Storage Tips
Mango puree can be stored in a sealed jar in your fridge for up to two or three days. Give it a good shake before using. The finished margarita is best enjoyed right after making but if you need to batch for a crowd just mix the base and pour over ice to serve.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find hot honey mix regular honey with a small pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of your favorite chili oil. No Cointreau Try triple sec or another orange liqueur you love. If you want a lighter drink swap in sparkling water for some of the tequila and shake as directed.
Serving Suggestions
This margarita pairs beautifully with summer tacos chips and guacamole or grilled street corn. For a festive twist try using frozen mango chunks instead of fresh and serve as a blended frozen cocktail. A platter of pineapple and cucumber sprinkled with extra chili lime seasoning really rounds out the flavors.
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Cultural Context
The margarita is a classic Mexican cocktail with roots in border towns where tequila and citrus come together. Hot honey is a new spin that reflects the growing love for sweet heat in modern drinks. Mango is beloved in many Mexican treats including juice and paletas so it makes perfect sense in a margarita twist like this.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use store-bought mango puree?
Yes, store-bought mango puree works well and saves time. Look for a puree without added sweeteners or preservatives for best flavor.
- → How do I make hot honey at home?
Heat honey gently and infuse with sliced chili peppers or a pinch of chili flakes. Let it cool before using, adjusting heat level to taste.
- → What type of tequila is best?
Blanco or silver tequila is recommended for its smooth, clean notes, which let the mango and spices shine in the drink.
- → Is there a substitute for Cointreau?
Triple sec or any high-quality orange liqueur can be used in place of Cointreau without compromising flavor.
- → How do I rim the glass with chili lime seasoning?
Rub a lime wedge around the glass rim, then dip the rim into chili lime seasoning spread on a plate to coat evenly.