Snowy Spiced Margarita Cocktail/Mocktail

This is a refreshing drink with a winter spin on a classic margarita! This recipe has instructions for both a cocktail and mocktail so people of all ages can enjoy!

Ingredients (Cocktail):

• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau or Triple Sec)
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz spiced simple syrup (recipe below)
• Optional: 1 oz cranberry juice (for a festive twist)
• Cinnamon sugar rim (mix sugar with a pinch of ground cinnamon)
• Ice
• Garnish: Lime wedge, orange slice, or a sprig of rosemary

Ingredients (Mocktail):

• 2 oz orange juice
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz spiced simple syrup (recipe below)
• 2 oz sparkling water or club soda
• Optional: 1 oz cranberry juice
• Cinnamon sugar rim
• Ice
• Garnish: Lime wedge, orange slice, or a sprig of rosemary

For the Spiced Simple Syrup:

• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 whole cloves
• 1 star anise pod

Instructions for Simple Syrup:

1. Combine water, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool. Strain out the spices before use.

Instructions for Margarita:

1. Rim a glass with lime juice, then dip in cinnamon sugar.
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. In a shaker, combine tequila (or orange juice for mocktail), orange liqueur, lime juice, spiced simple syrup, and cranberry juice (if using). Add ice and shake well.
4. Strain into the prepared glass.
5. For the mocktail, top with sparkling water.
6. Garnish with a lime wedge, orange slice, or rosemary sprig.

Cheers to a cozy winter sip at Madison Campground! 🍹✨