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It’s hot and you’re craving that perfect balance of tart lime and smooth tequila in a refreshingly cold format. We’ve perfected this recipe to deliver restaurant-quality texture without sacrificing the sophisticated flavor profile that separates a proper margarita from overly sweet chain restaurant versions.

Two frozen margarita cocktails with lime slices sit on marble, with a green leafy plant hanging in the background.

What Is a Frozen Margarita Cocktail?

A frozen margarita is a blended version of the classic margarita, combining tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur with ice to create a slushy, refreshing drink.

The frozen margarita was born in 1971 when Dallas restaurateur Mariano Martinez modified a soft-serve ice cream machine to create the world’s first frozen margarita machine. This innovation now sits in the Smithsonian, having transformed how we experience this beloved cocktail.

A frozen margarita cocktail in a glass with a sugared rim and lime wheel garnish rests on a light surface.

What you’ll love about this recipe:


  • BALANCED: Our 3:2:1 ratio of tequila to lime to orange liqueur ensures the frozen format doesn’t dilute the sophisticated flavors.
  • FROZEN: The precise ice-to-liquid ratio creates ideal slushy consistency that won’t separate or turn watery.

What You Need to Make a Frozen Margarita Cocktail

  • Blanco Tequila: Choose 100% agave tequila for clean, bright flavors that won’t get lost in blending.
  • Fresh Lime Juice: Never use bottled—it will ruin the drink’s brightness.
  • Triple Sec: Good orange liqueur adds necessary sweetness and citrus complexity.
  • Agave Syrup: Optional sweetener that integrates seamlessly with tequila’s natural character.
  • Ice: About 5 cups of fresh, dry ice cubes for proper slushy consistency.

How to Make a Frozen Margarita Cocktail

  1. Rim glasses with salt if desired by running lime wedge around rim and dipping in coarse salt.
  2. Add tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and agave syrup to blender, then ice.
  3. Blend on high until smooth and slushy, about 30-45 seconds.
  4. Pour immediately into prepared glasses and garnish with lime wedges.

Bartender’s Tips


  • Use Fresh, Dry Ice: Wet or partially melted ice creates watery consistency and dilutes flavors.
  • Blend in Batches: Don’t overload your blender—smaller batches ensure even texture.
  • Serve Immediately: Frozen margaritas separate quickly, so blend and serve right away.
Two frozen margarita with lime wheels rest on marble beneath a hanging green plant.

How to Serve This Frozen Margarita Cocktail

Serve in chilled margarita glasses with salted rims and lime wedge garnish. The salt enhances lime’s brightness and balances acidity. Perfect for warm weather or paired with Mexican cuisine.

Frozen Margarita Recipe

Create restaurant-quality frozen margaritas at home – the kind with that perfect icy texture and bold tequila flavor that hits differently than anything from a mix.
Print Recipe
Two frozen margarita with lime wheels rest on marble beneath a hanging green plant.
Prep Time:4 minutes

Equipment

  • Ninja Professional Countertop Blender with 1100-Watt Base, 72oz Total Crushing Pitcher and (2) 16oz Cups for Frozen Drinks and Smoothies (BL660)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup blanco tequila
  • ¾ cup fresh lime juice
  • ½ cup triple sec
  • 1 –2 tablespoons agave syrup optional
  • 5 cups ice
  • Garnish: coarse salt and lime wedges optional

Instructions

  • Rim glasses with salt if desired.
  • Add tequila, lime juice, triple sec, agave syrup, and ice to blender.
  • Blend until smooth and slushy, 30-45 seconds.
  • Pour into glasses and garnish with lime wedges.
Servings: 4 cocktails
Author: Kita

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