There’s something magical about a well-crafted margarita that takes you on a sensory journey with each sip. But when you add the deep smokiness of mezcal, the aromatic warmth of cinnamon, and the vibrant tang of hibiscus? That’s when true cocktail alchemy happens.
The Cinnamon Hibiscus Mezcal Margarita isn’t just a drink—it’s a bold flavor experience that transforms ordinary happy hours into memorable occasions. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself after a long day, this ruby-hued cocktail delivers complex flavors that dance between smoky, sweet, tart, and spicy. It’s a conversation starter that looks as stunning as it tastes.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
The Cinnamon Hibiscus Mezcal Margarita stands out from standard cocktail fare because it brings together unexpected elements that brilliantly complement each other.
The smoky depth of mezcal—tequila’s more complex cousin—creates the perfect foundation for the floral, slightly tart hibiscus tea. What makes this recipe truly special is the warming cinnamon infusion that ties everything together, adding a subtle spice note that lingers pleasantly after each sip. It’s sophisticated yet approachable, impressive yet easy to make.
Unlike many craft cocktails that require obscure ingredients or specialized equipment, this recipe uses simple components that create an extraordinary result. The vibrant ruby color also makes it incredibly Instagram-worthy—a cocktail that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Equipment Needed: Cocktail shaker, strainer, measuring jigger, saucepan, muddler, citrus juicer
Smoky Cinnamon Hibiscus Mezcal Margarita
Ingredients
- 4 oz mezcal preferably a young, unaged variety
- 2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz cinnamon simple syrup recipe below
- 2 oz hibiscus tea cooled (made from 2 tablespoons dried hibiscus flowers or 2 hibiscus tea bags)
- 1 oz orange liqueur Triple Sec, Cointreau, or Grand Marnier
- Ice cubes
- Tajin or salt and chili powder mix for rimming optional
- Cinnamon sticks and dehydrated lime wheels for garnish optional
For Cinnamon Simple Syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cinnamon sticks
Instructions
- Prepare the hibiscus tea: Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add dried hibiscus flowers or tea bags, remove from heat, and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and allow to cool completely (you can speed this up in the refrigerator).
- Make the cinnamon simple syrup: Combine sugar, water, and cinnamon sticks in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely, then bring to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely with cinnamon sticks still in the syrup. Strain before using.
- Prepare the glass rim: Run a lime wedge around the rim of two margarita or rocks glasses. Dip the moistened rims in Tajin or a salt/chili powder mixture if desired. Fill glasses with ice and set aside.
- Mix the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine the mezcal, lime juice, cooled hibiscus tea, orange liqueur, and cinnamon simple syrup. Add ice until the shaker is about three-quarters full.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty and cold.
- Strain and serve: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glasses. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and/or dehydrated lime wheel if desired.
Notes
- For a sweeter cocktail, adjust the amount of cinnamon simple syrup to taste.
- The hibiscus tea and cinnamon syrup can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- For a spicier variation, add a thin slice of jalapeño to the shaker before mixing.
- If you want a less smoky flavor, you can use a blend of mezcal and silver tequila (1:1 ratio works well).
- Fresh lime juice is essential for the best flavor—bottled lime juice will noticeably affect the quality of the cocktail.
Calories & Nutritional Info
- Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
- Alcohol Content: Moderately high due to mezcal and orange liqueur
- Sugar: Moderate (primarily from simple syrup and orange liqueur)
- Allergens: None common, though some may have sensitivity to red dye in hibiscus
- Dietary Notes: Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cheap mezcal: Since mezcal is the star ingredient, using a poor-quality brand will significantly impact your cocktail. You don’t need the most expensive option, but avoid the bottom shelf.
- Skipping fresh lime juice: Bottled lime juice lacks the bright acidity and freshness that makes margaritas sing. Always use freshly squeezed.
- Over-steeping the hibiscus: If left too long, hibiscus can become bitter. Stick to the recommended 10 minutes for optimal flavor.
- Not chilling properly: A lukewarm margarita is disappointing. Make sure your hibiscus tea is completely cooled, and shake with plenty of ice.
- Forgetting the balance: The perfect margarita requires balance between sweet, sour, and spirit. Taste and adjust as needed.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- Liquor alternatives: If mezcal is unavailable, use a high-quality reposado tequila with a drop or two of liquid smoke. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute mezcal with smoked water or mesquite tea and orange liqueur with orange juice reduction.
- Hibiscus substitutions: If you can’t find hibiscus, cranberry juice mixed with a splash of pomegranate juice offers a similar tart-sweet profile.
- Sweetener options: Replace the cinnamon simple syrup with agave nectar infused with a cinnamon stick overnight for a lower glycemic alternative.
- Spice variations: Try star anise or cardamom pods instead of cinnamon for different aromatic notes.
- Rim alternatives: For a sweeter variation, use a mixture of cinnamon sugar instead of Tajin or salt for the rim.
FAQs
What’s the difference between mezcal and tequila?
While both are made from agave plants, tequila uses only blue agave and is typically steamed, while mezcal can use various agave varieties and is often roasted in underground pits, giving it that characteristic smoky flavor. Think of tequila as a subset of mezcal with specific production requirements.
Can I make this cocktail in a large batch for parties?
Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings needed. Mix everything except the ice in a pitcher up to 8 hours before serving. When ready to serve, stir well and pour over ice in prepared glasses.
Is there a way to make this less potent but keep the flavors?
Yes, you can reduce the mezcal to 1 oz per serving and add 1 oz of sparkling water or club soda for a lighter version that maintains the cocktail’s complex flavor profile.
How long will the cinnamon simple syrup last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the cinnamon simple syrup will keep for up to one month. You might notice the cinnamon flavor intensifies over time, which isn’t a bad thing!
What food pairs well with this cocktail?
The Cinnamon Hibiscus Mezcal Margarita pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, tacos al pastor, mole dishes, or anything with a sweet-savory balance. The smoky notes also complement chocolate desserts surprisingly well.
Final Thoughts
The Cinnamon Hibiscus Mezcal Margarita is more than just a cocktail—it’s a celebration of bold flavors that come together in perfect harmony. Don’t be intimidated by its sophisticated profile; the preparation is straightforward and the result is truly worth it. Whether you’re a longtime mezcal enthusiast or new to this smoky spirit, this vibrant drink offers a delightful avenue to explore the rich landscape of Mexican-inspired mixology.
