Best Vodka Margarita Recipe: Vodka Orange Cocktail
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Unwind this summer with our Vodka Margarita recipe. A refreshing twist on the traditional margarita, it blends citrus flavors with a kick of quality vodka and tequila for a unique happy hour experience.
Elevate your gatherings and savor the season with this delightful and invigorating vodka orange cocktail!
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While you may prefer to skip to the recipe card, we suggest reading the entire blog post to avoid missing valuable tips and substitution suggestions and to ensure you have the necessary ingredients, equipment, and understanding of the steps and timings.
Vodka Margarita Recipe
This easy margarita recipe combines the kick of vodka and tequila with the citrus flavors of orange juice, fresh lime juice, and a dash of blood orange juice.
Add Triple Sec into the mix, shake well in a cocktail shaker, and get a delicious twist on a classic cocktail.
Garnished with an orange slice and fresh mint leaves, this vodka margarita offers a delightful visual appeal to complement its vibrant flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a summer party, celebrating Cinco de Mayo, or simply looking to relax after a long day, our vodka margarita recipe provides a perfect blend of refreshment and relaxation.
Margaritas pair perfectly with Mexican and Tex-Mex recipes like Garden Fresh Tomatillo Salsa Verde, Mexican Street Corn, Steak Fajita Salad, and Mexican Sweet Corn Cake with Cinnamon Churro Icing.
To complement the orange flavors in the vodka margarita, try Roasted Fennel and Grapefruit Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette, One-Pan Chicken with Lemon Orzo, and Summer Citrus Yogurt Cake.
Popular Cocktails
Margaritas and Vodka Orange are some of the most popular cocktails, so combining them makes sense!
Even better, our Vodkarita is simple to make!
With simple ingredients that you might already have on hand, it’s a recipe that doesn’t require you to be a seasoned bartender to mix up.
Just gather your cocktail supplies, follow the easy instructions, and prepare to impress your guests!
Reasons Why You’ll Love Vodka Orange Margaritas
- Zesty Citrus Fusion: Vodka Orange Margaritas combines the tangy goodness of oranges with the smoothness of vodka, creating a delightful and refreshing taste.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness and strength of the cocktail to suit your preferences, making it a versatile drink for everyone.
- A Summer Sensation: Perfect for warm days and tropical get-togethers, these margaritas offer a burst of summer vibes with every sip.
- Vodka’s Smoothness: Vodka’s neutral flavor profile enhances the drink without overpowering the fruity notes, providing a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.
- Ideal Party Companion: Whether it’s a beach party, barbecue, or casual gathering, Vodka Orange Margaritas will surely be a hit among your friends and family.
Ingredients & Equipment For Vodka Margarita Recipe
The ingredients and tools in this recipe are conveniently linked to online retailers like Amazon or Amazon Fresh.
Vodka Margarita Ingredients
- Vodka – use your preferred brand. For more citrus flavor, use orange vodka.
- Tequila – you can use silver or gold tequila in this cocktail
- Triple Sec – an orange-flavored liqueur.
- Orange Juice
- Lime Juice
- Blood Orange Juice
- Simple Syrup – You can buy this ready-made, but it is easy to make yourself.
- To make simple syrup, place equal measures of sugar and water in a pan and stir over medium heat.
- By the time it simmers, the sugar is dissolved, and that’s it!
- When the syrup has cooled, use it in cocktails as required.
- Store it in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to a week.
- Margarita Salt – Depending on your preference, you can use either salt, sugar, or Tajin for the rim of your glass.
- Fruit Garnish – Lime Wheels, Orange Wedges, Blood Orange Slices
Cocktail Equipment
- This cocktail is shaken, but don’t worry if you don’t have a cocktail shaker!
- Use a container with a tight-fitting lid—like a mason jar or the cup of a blender or smoothie maker.
- Citrus Juicer
- Margarita Glasses – Although the vodka-tequila cocktail will taste great in any glass you have!
- Margarita Glass Rimmer Set – A handy gadget if you make a lot of margs, but a saucer will work too!
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What Can I Serve With Vodka Orange Margaritas?
- Chips and Guacamole: A classic pairing for any margarita.
- Crispy Lemon Panko Fried Shrimp: The citrusy cocktail complements the shrimp.
- Buffalo Chicken Wings: The heat from the spicy chicken wings pairs well with the citrusy flavors of the margaritas.
More Citrus Cocktails To Make
If you enjoy citrus flavors, you’re going to love making these cocktails:
Vodka Margarita Recipe Variations
Here are some variations of the original cocktail recipe you might like to try.
- If you can’t find blood oranges, use regular orange juice instead.
- Add a splash of agave syrup for a sweeter margarita.
- Check our FAQ section for different ways to make this cocktail.
Virgin Orange Margarita Mocktail (Non-Alcoholic)
So that non-drinkers can enjoy a fancy cocktail too, we simply remove the alcohol and replace it!
Follow the recipe card using the non-alcoholic alternatives listed below instead of the alcoholic ones.
- Replace Vodka and Tequila with Lemon-Lime Soda
- Replace Triple Sec with Orange Syrup or more Fresh Orange Juice
I recommend adding the syrups to your taste as they may add the sweetness you may not necessarily get from alcoholic liqueurs.
Vodka Margarita Mocktails with Non-Alcoholic Spirits
For adults who would still like to enjoy the taste of alcohol in their mocktail, you could try non-alcoholic alternatives.
In the UK, try Lyre’s, which is also available on Amazon in the UK and Amazon.com.
Other brands include Strykk (UK) and Ritual (US & Canada). Non-alcoholic spirits are a growing trend, so be on the lookout in your local stores and online.
- Instead of Vodka, use Strykk Not V*dka
- Instead of Tequila, use Lyre’s Agave Blanco Spirit.
- Instead of Triple Sec, use Lyre’s Orange Sec.
Follow the recipe card using the non-alcoholic alternatives listed above instead of the alcoholic ones.
Frozen Orange Vodka Margarita
Want to turn this vodka drink into a frozen margarita? Here’s how!
Put all the ingredients in a blender with a generous amount of ice – then blend till smooth.
Serve with a straw, and watch out for brain freeze!
You can do the same with the mocktail version too.
Big Batch Vodka Margarita Recipe
Want to make a big batch of vodka margarita cocktails for a party or gathering? It’s easy – here’s how!
If you use the same measuring container (glass, cup, jug, etc.) for the “1 part”, the ratios will be correct, and you can make as much as you need to.
To make Orange Vodka Margaritas for a crowd, mix together:
- 4 parts Vodka
- 2 parts Tequila
- 2 parts Triple Sec
- 6 parts Orange Juice
- 1 part Lime Juice
- 1 part Fresh Blood Orange Juice
Serve the large batch cocktail in drinks dispensers or pitchers, or go retro and serve from a punch bowl!
Add plenty of ice to your serving container to keep the cocktail chilled. Add some orange slices in there too.
Saving Leftovers
While it’s best to enjoy the cocktail fresh to savor its flavors, you may have some left at the end of your party—don’t let it go to waste!
- Transfer it to an airtight pitcher or container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
- Or, to make it last longer, turn it into Vodka Orange Margarita Granita!
- Granita is a semi-frozen dessert made from sugar, water, and various flavorings. Originally from Sicily.
- Transfer the cocktail to a shallow freezer-safe container and place it in the freezer for 6 hours (or overnight). You can add some simple syrup or another sweetener if desired.
- Use a fork to break the frozen cocktail into small pieces. Serve and enjoy!
- Or pour the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze.
- Use the cocktail cubes to chill and flavor future cocktails without diluting the drink.
Setting Up Your Cocktail Bar
When setting up your cocktail bar or serving area, you could include the following:
- Ice Bucket – Filled with ice (of course!). Don’t forget a scoop or tongs.
- Cocktail Glasses
- Cocktail Napkins
- Cocktail Stirrers/Swizzle Sticks
- Cocktail Sticks/Picks – Skewer fruit onto cocktail picks for guests to garnish their drinks.
- Cocktail Decorations – Such as umbrellas, straws, etc.
This cocktail recipe is intended for adults of the legal drinking age in your country of residence.
Please drink responsibly. Do not drink and drive.
Vodka Margarita Recipe Card
Below is the printable recipe card. To save ink, any demonstration photos on the recipe card are not printed out.
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Vodka Orange Margaritas
Ready to upgrade your home bar repertoire? This Vodka Margarita recipe is just what you need.
Ingredients
For Glass Rim
- Lime Wedges
- Salt or Sugar
For the Margaritas
- 4 oz Vodka
- 2 oz Tequila
- 2 oz Triple Sec
- 6 oz Orange Juice
- 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- 1 oz Fresh Blood Orange Juice
- Ice
For Garnish
- Orange Slices
- Fresh Mint Leaves
Instructions
- To add salt or sugar rim to margarita glasses, pour some salt (or sugar) onto a plate. Then rub the lime wedge around the rim of each glass. Dip the glass rim into the salt (or sugar) and twist. Fill glasses with ice and set them aside.
- Place the Vodka, Tequila, Triple Sec, orange juice, fresh lime juice, and fresh blood orange juice into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake well for 15-30 seconds to combine.
- Pour into the prepared glasses.
- Garnish as desired with slices of orange and fresh mint leaves. Cheers!
Dinner Party Menu Suggestions!
The beverage is covered, but what about the rest of the courses?
Here are additional recipes to create a menu for a dinner party or special meal:
- Appetizer: Mexican Street Corn
- Soup: Pozole Rojo de Pollo
- Salad: Mexican Chopped Salad
- Main Dish: Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
- Side Dish: Cilantro Lime Rice
- Dessert: Tres Leches Cupcakes
FAQ About Vodka Margaritas
Here are some questions people often ask about making vodka margaritas
Click the question to read the answer. If you have one of your own, please comment on this post!
Of course! We used it in addition to tequila in this recipe, but you could replace it completely.
A Vodkarita cocktail combines vodka and traditional margarita ingredients, like lime juice and orange liqueur, creating a vodka-based version of the classic margarita.
You can try using mezcal, which is a spirit similar to tequila but with a smokier flavor. You can use a non-alcoholic tequila substitute if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
The alcohol content of vodka and tequila can vary, but typically, they have a similar alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage. It’s essential to check the specific brands and proofs for accurate comparison.
While both cocktails are served in a similar glass and feature citrus flavors, the base spirit is the main difference. A margarita uses tequila, whereas a daiquiri is made with rum.
Traditionally, a margarita is made with tequila, but creative variations, like the Orange Vodka Margarita, have emerged, offering exciting alternatives.
Mezcal is the closest alcohol to tequila since they are both made from agave plants. However, mezcal has a distinctive smokier flavor compared to tequila. If you are a tequila fan, you have to try Mezcal!
A Skinny Margarita is a lighter version of the classic margarita, made with fewer calories and sugar. It often uses fresh ingredients and skips sugary mixers.
Classic lime is undoubtedly the most popular margarita flavor, but variations like strawberry, mango, and passion fruit have gained popularity in recent years. You can always check out our Unique Margarita Recipes for many different options!
A margarita is beloved for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and tangy flavors, making it a refreshing and versatile cocktail suitable for various occasions.
Margaritas are tasty due to the harmonious blend of citrus flavors, the warmth of the tequila, and the touch of sweetness from the liqueur, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable drink.
Margaritas pair well with various foods, especially Mexican dishes like tacos, guacamole, and quesadillas. They also complement seafood, grilled chicken, and spicy dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
What Are Some Vodka Margarita Variations I Could Try?
Spicy Vodka Margarita: Muddle a jalapeño slice or two into your cocktail shaker to give your margarita a spicy kick. The jalapeño heat adds an exciting dimension to the classic margarita taste.
Ginger Vodka Margarita: Add a dash of ginger syrup to your margarita for a spicy and sweet twist. Ginger’s distinctive flavor enhances the fresh flavors of the margarita. Add a slice of fresh ginger as garnish.
Elderflower Vodka Margarita: Add a splash of elderflower liqueur or elderflower syrup to your margarita. The elderflower gives the cocktail a sweet, floral note that adds complexity and sophistication.
Blackberry Vodka Margarita: Muddle a handful of blackberries in your cocktail shaker before adding the other ingredients. The blackberries add a delightful fruitiness to the margarita and pair perfectly with the tart lime juice.
Watermelon Vodka Margarita: Blend fresh watermelon to get juice and use this instead of orange juice. The watermelon gives the margarita a sweet, refreshing twist that’s perfect for a hot summer day.
Chamomile Vodka Margarita: Brew and chill chamomile tea and mix it with your usual margarita ingredients for a subtle floral note that plays well with the lime flavor. Don’t forget to share this unique concoction on social media!
Pomegranate Vodka Margarita: Add pomegranate juice to your mix. The tartness balances the sweetness of your orange liqueur, resulting in a perfectly balanced cocktail best enjoyed over ice cubes in a salt-rimmed glass.
Honeydew Vodka Margarita: Use honeydew melon juice instead of orange juice. Pour into a rocks glass with a classic salt rim, and this delicious cocktail will surely be the talk of your next party.
Beer Vodka Margarita: Mix in a light beer with your ingredients for an interesting take on beer margaritas. It might sound different, but beer margaritas provide a refreshing twist on a traditional cocktail.
Kiwi Vodka Margarita: Blend in fresh kiwi for a tropical twist on the margarita. Serve in a cocktail glass with a salted rim to complement the sweet-tart flavor of the kiwi.
Cucumber Vodka Margarita: Muddle fresh cucumber slices for a fresh, crisp variation. It’s a refreshing cocktail that’s a hit, especially during the summer months. Add a slice of cucumber and a lime wheel for garnish.
Grapefruit Vodka Margarita: Mix fresh grapefruit juice and a splash of Rose’s lime juice with your vodka margarita. The citrusy grapefruit adds a tangy twist, perfect for sipping from a salt-rimmed glass.
Pineapple Chili Vodka Margarita: Use pineapple juice, a dash of chili powder, or a small piece of fresh chili. The sweet and spicy combination offers a unique kick to your margarita, making it an exciting choice for any gathering.
Mango Basil Vodka Margarita: Combine fresh mango puree and muddled basil leaves for a unique, flavorful twist. The sweetness of the mango and the fragrant basil offer an exotic take.
Blueberry Lemon Vodka Margarita: Muddle fresh blueberries and add a splash of lemon juice instead of the traditional lime for a berry-citrus twist. Don’t forget the coarse salt on the rim of the glass for that classic margarita touch.
Grand Marnier Vodka Margarita: Swap out the triple sec for Grand Marnier to elevate your cocktail. The blend of cognac and bitter orange in Grand Marnier adds a luxurious depth of flavor to the perfect margarita.
Peach Vodka Margarita: Blend in fresh peach for a sweet and tangy flavor profile that will take you straight to a warm summer day. Try it frozen for an extra refreshing twist.
Rosemary Grapefruit Vodka Margarita: Add a sprig of rosemary and a splash of fresh grapefruit juice. The herbal and citrus flavors combine for a sophisticated, unique take on the classic.
Maple Cranberry Vodka Margarita: Add a splash of real maple syrup and cranberry juice to your margarita for a delightful fall variation. This flavorful twist adds a touch of natural sweetness and tartness that complements the taste of tequila perfectly.
Prickly Pear Vodka Margarita: Use prickly pear syrup for a sweet and vibrant variation. The syrup gives the cocktail a beautiful pink color and a unique, sweet-tart flavor.
Coconut Vodka Margarita: Mix in some coconut cream for a creamy and tropical twist.
Pineapple Jalapeño Vodka Margarita: Combine pineapple juice and a slice of jalapeño for a spicy-sweet combination that’s full of flavor. This is an exciting, flavorful spin on the classic margarita recipe.
Passion Fruit Vodka Margarita: Add a splash of passion fruit syrup or juice to your mix. The exotic sweet-tart flavor of passion fruit adds a tropical touch that will impress.
Reposado Tequila Vodka Margarita: Create a unique blend by swapping regular tequila with reposado tequila, which has been aged in oak barrels for a few months to a year. This lends an extra smoothness and subtle woody flavor that combines beautifully with the citrus flavor in a margarita.
Blood Orange Margarita: For a vibrant twist, use fresh blood orange juice instead of regular orange juice. The result is a deeply citrusy, flavorful margarita with a stunning ruby-red hue. This variation is delicious and visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or a quiet evening by the fire.
Remember that making cocktails is an art, so feel free to experiment with flavors and find what suits your taste the best. Enjoy responsibly!