Cadillac Margarita Recipe

By FoodfaithfitnessJul 27, 2023Jump to Recipe

Mix it up then settle down and enjoy the refreshing and sophisticated flair of the classic Cadillac Margarita, the luxury rendition of the humble tequila cocktail.

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Know why the Cadillac Margarita is such a showstopper? It’s that heart-stopping blend of top-notch orange liqueur and tasty blue agave tequila. It stands out like a neon sign in a sea of other cocktails. Balanced perfectly with a gentle hint of lime, this drink is like a snug hug that tastes just like a sunny day in Mexico.

Now, if you’ve tried the spicy Margarita or even its tequila-infused cousin the Paloma and you think they’re all the same, you need to try the Cadillac Margarita. It’s a whole ‘nother story with its posh vibe and interesting, layered flavor profile. Simply put, this cocktail promises you a ride filled with refreshing zing, harmonious sweetness, and a spark of brilliance you wouldn’t see coming.

INGREDIENTS

I recommend a premium quality, 100% blue agave tequila; it’s the base of the drink and is no place for compromise.

1 1/2 oz. tequila
1 oz. Grand Marnier (or another high-quality orange liqueur)
1 oz. fresh lime juice
1/2 oz. simple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
ice
lime wheel (optional garnish)
salt for rimming the glass (optional)

Bar Utensils

A rocks or margarita glass – to serve the cocktail
A cocktail shaker
A strainer – if not built into the shaker
A juicer – for the fresh lime
A jigger – to measure the ingredients
A plate – to hold the salt for rimming the glass

INSTRUCTIONS

Rim

Moisten the rim of a rock or margarita glass with a lime wedge, then dip the rim into salt (if desired).

Shake

In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, Grand Marnier, fresh lime juice, simple syrup (if using), and ice. Shake well until chilled.

Strain

Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lime wheel.

How to Make a Healthy, Low-Calorie Cadillac Margarita

A classic Cadillac Margarita comes in strong with a 250-calorie load, most of which comes from the tequila, Grand Marnier, and the simple syrup. But don’t worry, there are ways we can trim this number without sacrificing taste:

Go for a top-notch, 100% blue agave tequila for a start. It doesn’t just taste out of this world, but it’s also free from the sugars and stuff they put in cheaper options that make the calorie count shoot up and give you a nasty hangover.
Drop the simple syrup. The Grand Marnier and lime juice are already doing their magic in terms of flavor. If you want it sweeter, go natural with agave nectar or stevia – you’ll lower those calories and avoid sugar spikes.
Fresh lime juice is a total winner over store-bought bottles. It gives an exhilarating kick of flavor and is loaded with vitamin C. The stuff you find already squeezed is often full of preservatives and other sugars, which just add to the calorie count.

Tips & Tricks to Make a Perfect Cadillac Margarita

A chilled glass keeps your margarita cool for a longer period without diluting it. Pop your glass in the freezer about 15 minutes before you’re ready to mix things up.
Investing (yes, it truly is an investment, which pays dividends in taste!) in a premium tequila and a high-quality orange liqueur like Grand Marnier will set your margarita apart. They are the basis of your cocktail, so don’t skimp!
Fresh, well-squeezed limes bring what that bottled lime juice can’t, a delicious all-natural taste.
Give your margarita a good shake until the shaker feels frosty. l mixes the ingredients AND gives you a solid arms workout.
Picture any margarita and I guarantee it will feature a salt rim. It’s iconic. It also accentuates the flavors and adding a fun tactile component.

FAQs

How many calories are in a Cadillac Margarita?

An average Cadillac Margarita will set you back 200-250 calories. See above how you could bring that number down.

What’s the best way to drink a Cadillac Margarita?

A Cadillac Margarita should be savored, so take slow sips out of a chilled glass, and enjoy those tequila, lime juice, and Grand Marnier flavors.

Can I use a different orange liqueur if I don’t have Grand Marnier?

No worries. Grand Marnier is the go-to, but you can use Cointreau or Triple Sec, if you’d like. You’ll still get that citrusy zing that makes a Cadillac Margarita pop.

Is it possible to make a Cadillac Margarita non-alcoholic?

Totally! Swap out the tequila and Grand Marnier with non-alcoholic spirits, or stick with fresh orange juice instead of the Grand Marnier.

is there a high-end version of a cadillac margarita?

Got a special occasion coming up? Why not make a Cadillac Margarita with aged or ‘añejo’ tequila, which is reminiscent of bourbon.

Make-Ahead and Storage of a Cadillac margarita

You can prep your Cadillac Margarita before your guests arrive (assuming you’re prepping them for a party). Grab a pitcher, and mix up the tequila, fresh lime juice, and Grand Marnier. Pop it in the fridge to keep it cool while you busy yourself with other host-related stuff. You can also prep the glasses by rimming then chilling them. When it’s time, just shake with ice and pour!

If you’ve got leftover mix, take out any ice (so it doesn’t get all watery), and stash it in a reusable bottle or mason jar. It’ll keep in the fridge for about a week.

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