The White Christmas Margarita is a festive twist on the classic margarita, blending the bright, tangy flavors of lime with a creamy, coconut-like smoothness that feels like a winter treat. Imagine the zesty punch of tequila and lime juice softened with a touch of cream or coconut, topped with a snowy rim of sugar or coconut flakes that looks just like a holiday snowfall in a glass.
I love making this drink when friends come over for the holidays because it’s both refreshing and comforting. It feels special but isn’t complicated to put together, which means you can spend more time chatting and less time mixing. One of my favorite tricks is to use a little coconut milk or cream to get that velvety texture—it really takes the margarita to a new level that surprises everyone.
Serving this in a glass rimmed with sugar and shredded coconut makes it feel like a party right from the first sip. I like to garnish it with a lime wedge or even a small sprig of rosemary for that extra festive touch. This margarita is perfect for when you want something bright and spirited but with a cozy holiday vibe that makes everyone smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Silver Tequila: This is the base spirit that gives the margarita its classic kick. If you prefer something smoother, try reposado tequila for a slightly aged flavor.
Triple Sec: Adds a sweet orange flavor. Cointreau or Grand Marnier can be swapped for a richer taste, or use orange juice concentrate if you want alcohol-free.
Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh is best for bright, tangy flavor. Avoid bottled juice if you can—it can taste flat.
Cream of Coconut: This brings the creamy, tropical note. If unavailable, thick coconut milk or coconut cream work well, but avoid sweetened coconut milk brands that are more watery.
Rim Coating: Coarse sugar makes a crunchy, sweet rim; shredded coconut creates a snowy, festive look and flavor. Both make your glass feel special.
How Do You Get the Perfect Frosted Rim?
Rimming the glass not only looks festive but balances flavors. Here’s how to get it right:
- Rub a lime wedge around the rim to moisten it.
- Dip the rim into a shallow plate of coarse sugar or shredded coconut.
- Press gently to make sure it sticks well, but not so hard that it clumps.
- Chill the glass briefly to set the rim before pouring in the drink.
Using a moist rim helps the sugar or coconut stick without melting too quickly. This step adds texture and a nice contrast to the creamy margarita.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cocktail shaker – I use it to shake everything up until perfectly blended and chilled.
- Juicer – helps get the freshest lime juice for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Dish for rimming – a shallow plate to hold the sugar or shredded coconut for coating the glass rim.
- Strainer – to pour the margarita smoothly into the glass without ice chips.
- Champagne flute or margarita glass – a festive glass to serve your holiday margarita.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap triple sec for orange liqueur like Grand Marnier for a richer orange flavor.
- Add a splash of cranberry juice or pomegranate syrup for a festive red hue and tartness.
- Use flavored coconut cream or add a dash of vanilla extract for extra creaminess and depth.
- Garnish with a sprig of rosemary or a small candy cane for a seasonal touch.
White Christmas Margarita
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz triple sec (orange liqueur)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz cream of coconut (such as Coco Lopez)
- ½ oz simple syrup (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- Crushed ice
- Coarse sugar or shredded coconut for rimming the glass
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Lime wheel, for garnish
- Small pine sprig, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This festive cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. Most of your time goes into prepping the glass rim and shaking the ingredients. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for holiday parties when you want to make several drinks without spending too long mixing.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rim the Glass:
Start by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim of your glass to moisten it. Then dip the rim into coarse sugar or shredded coconut, pressing gently so it sticks well and creates a frosted, festive look. Set the glass aside while you make the cocktail.
2. Mix the Margarita:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the silver tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, cream of coconut, and simple syrup if you want it a bit sweeter. Shake vigorously for about 15–20 seconds until well chilled and creamy.
3. Serve and Garnish:
Fill your rimmed glass with crushed ice. Strain the margarita mixture into the glass over the ice. Garnish with a few fresh cranberries, a lime wheel on the rim, and if you like, a small pine sprig for a festive holiday touch. Serve right away and enjoy!
Can I Use Coconut Milk Instead of Cream of Coconut?
Yes, you can substitute coconut milk or coconut cream if you don’t have cream of coconut, but the drink will be less sweet and creamy. You might want to add a bit more simple syrup to balance the flavors.
How Do I Make the Rim Stick to the Glass?
Use a lime wedge to moisten the glass rim first, then dip it into coarse sugar or shredded coconut. Press gently to help it stick well. Chilling the glass before pouring the drink can help the rim stay intact longer.
Can I Prepare This Drink Ahead of Time?
It’s best served fresh for the brightest flavors, but you can mix the margarita base (without ice) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Shake again with ice just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftover Margaritas?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Since it contains cream of coconut, the texture might change, so give it a good shake or stir before serving again.