Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup water

1 1/2 cups fresh orange juice

3 pineapple rounds, 1/2 inch each (edges and center removed, chopped into large pieces)

1 1/2 cups white or silver tequila, or more to taste

1/2 – 1 cup orange simple syrup, to taste

Salt or sugar for rimming

Orange and lime slices, for garnish

Pineapple chunks, for garnish

Sparkling water, for topping off the drink (optional)

Crushed ice

Instructions

Step 1: Make the orange simple syrup by combining 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 2: Remove the syrup from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Stir in 1 1/2 cups fresh orange juice, transfer to a sterilized bottle, and refrigerate. The syrup keeps indefinitely if stored properly.

Step 3: For the margarita, in a large container suitable for muddling, add the chopped pineapple, cilantro leaves, and a few slices of orange and lime. Muddle together until the pineapple is smashed and well combined with the herbs and citrus.

Step 4: In a separate container, mix the tequila with the orange simple syrup to your taste preference.

Step 5: To assemble each drink, fill glasses with crushed ice, then spoon in a few tablespoons of the muddled pineapple, cilantro, and citrus mixture.

Step 6: Pour the tequila and simple syrup mix over the ice and muddled fruit, then optionally top off with a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy finish.

Step 7: Garnish with additional pineapple chunks, orange and lime slices, rim the glass with salt or sugar as desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, ripe pineapple for the best natural sweetness and flavor.

Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of orange simple syrup or rim the glass with chili salt for a spicy kick.

For a frozen version, blend the ingredients with ice instead of serving over crushed ice.

Swap cilantro for fresh mint if you prefer a different herbal note.

Storage

The orange simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed bottle for up to two weeks. The prepared margarita mixture is best served fresh, but any leftover muddled pineapple and cilantro can be refrigerated for up to 1 day. Avoid storing the fully assembled drink to maintain freshness and texture.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

While fresh orange juice offers the brightest flavor, you can use high-quality bottled juice in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars or preservatives.

Is it necessary to muddle the cilantro with the pineapple?

Yes, muddling releases the essential oils and flavor from the cilantro, which infuses the margarita with its signature herbal note. Just be gentle to avoid turning the herbs bitter.