As the frost settles on the windows and holiday lights twinkle in the distance, I often find myself reminiscing about warm, sunny days. This year, let’s bring a slice of summer into our festive gatherings with a refreshing twist on tradition: the White Christmas Margarita. Imagine a cocktail that seamlessly blends the tropical flavors of creamy coconut and zesty lime, creating a vibrant drink that’s both festive and invigorating. Not only does this recipe offer a delightful departure from standard holiday libations, but it’s also quick to whip up—making it a crowd-pleaser for any celebration. Finished with bursts of tart cranberries and fragrant rosemary, this cocktail is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Curious to learn how to mix up this delightful festive drink? Let’s dive in!

Why is this margarita so special?

Tropical Escape: This White Christmas Margarita offers a unique blend of flavors that transport you to sunny days, making it perfect for the holiday season.

Vibrant Presentation: Garnished with fresh cranberries and rosemary, it’s a visual treat that will impress your guests.

Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time, leaving you stress-free as you celebrate.

Versatile Variations: Want to personalize your drink? Swap in different spirits or add fruity purees for a customized taste.

Perfect Pairing: This cocktail complements holiday appetizers or desserts beautifully, making it an ideal addition to your festive spread.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, this margarita is sure to shine. Don’t forget to check out our Red White Blue Muddy Buddies for another festive treat!

White Christmas Margarita Ingredients

For the Rim
• Dried Unsweetened Shredded Coconut – Adds a tropical flavor and texture to the rim of the glass. Tip: Try using cream of coconut syrup if coconut doesn’t adhere well.

For the Garnish
• Fresh Rosemary – Provides aromatic notes and a festive touch when garnishing.
• Cranberries (5-8) – Garnish that adds color and a burst of tartness.

For the Cocktail
• Lime Juice (1 ounce, from about 1 fresh lime) – Adds freshness and acidity to balance flavors.
• Cream of Coconut (1 ounce) – Contributes creamy sweetness and coconut flavor. Note: Shake well before use to mix solids.
• Cointreau (½ ounce) or other Triple Sec – Sweet orange liqueur that enhances the drink’s citrus profile.
• Tequila Blanco (2 ounces) – The base spirit, serving as the primary alcohol with a light, crisp flavor.
• Vanilla Vodka (1 bar spoon, optional) – Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.

Mix these ingredients together and enjoy a delightful White Christmas Margarita that will elevate your holiday spirit!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Christmas Margarita

Step 1: Prepare the Glass
Start by cutting a fresh lime in half and using one half to wet the rim of an Old Fashioned glass. Immerse the wet rim into a plate of dried unsweetened shredded coconut, making sure it’s fully coated. This gives your glass a beautiful tropical flair, making it ready for the festive White Christmas Margarita.

Step 2: Prepare Garnishes
While the glass sets, wash a sprig of fresh rosemary under cold water, as well as 5-8 cranberries. Pat them dry with a clean towel and set them aside. The bright red of the cranberries and the green rosemary will create a vibrant garnish for your cocktail, enhancing its festive visual appeal.

Step 3: Mix the Drink
In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice, 1 ounce of cream of coconut, and ½ ounce of Cointreau. Add 2 ounces of Tequila Blanco and an optional bar spoon of vanilla vodka if you wish for a hint of sweetness. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well combined. You’re now ready to assemble your White Christmas Margarita!

Step 4: Assemble the Cocktail
Next, fill your prepared glass with fresh ice cubes to keep the drink cold and refreshing. Carefully strain the shaken mixture from the cocktail shaker into the glass, allowing it to flow smoothly over the ice. Make sure to pour it gently to maintain the drink’s light texture and visual allure.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
To finish, drop the cranberries on top of your White Christmas Margarita for a pop of color. For an aromatic touch, lightly tap the rosemary sprig between your palms to release its fragrance before placing it as a final garnish. This will add both style and scent, making your cocktail irresistible.

White Christmas Margarita Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adjust this festive cocktail to suit your taste!

Flavored Vodka: Swap out tequila for flavored vodka, like coconut or pineapple, for an exciting twist. This will jazz up the traditional margarita and bring a refreshing summer vibe right to your holiday gathering.
Non-Alcoholic: Create a mocktail by replacing the alcohol with flavored sparkling water. The fizzy touch will keep the drink lively and perfect for all ages at your celebrations.
Fruit Purees: Add fruit purees like mango or passion fruit to the shaker for a tropical explosion of flavor. Not only will it elevate the sweetness, but it will also brighten the color and allure of your cocktail.
Herb Infusion: Use mint instead of rosemary for a fresh, verdant twist that complements the coconut beautifully. The mint’s aroma is refreshing and perfect for a warm winter celebration!
Coconut Milk: Go for a creamier texture by using coconut milk instead of cream of coconut. This will create a beverage that’s extra rich and velvety, enhancing that tropical experience.
Extra Citrus: Add a splash of orange juice or a few slices of blood orange to pump up the citrus notes. This addition will further elevate your margarita with a delightful brightness!
Ginger Twist: Incorporate a dash of ginger syrup for some warmth and spice. The zing of ginger is an unexpected yet delightful element that plays well with the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, muddle a few slices of jalapeño in your shaker before adding the other ingredients. The spicy kick will provide a thrilling contrast to the sweetness, creating a memorable cocktail experience!

No matter how you choose to personalize your cocktail, it’s bound to be a hit! If you’re looking for more festive fare, consider serving this with our scrumptious Red White Blue Cookie Bars.

Make Ahead Options

These White Christmas Margaritas are perfect for making ahead to save time during the busy holiday season! You can pre-mix the non-carbonated ingredients—lime juice, cream of coconut, and Cointreau—up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The coconut rim can also be prepared ahead; simply coat your glasses and keep them covered until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, just add ice to the glass, shake the pre-mixed ingredients with tequila, and strain into the prepared glass before adding the fresh cranberries and rosemary. This way, you’ll have delicious, festive cocktails ready with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Festive White Christmas Margarita

As you sip on this vibrant cocktail, consider these delightful pairings to enhance your festive experience.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: The tropical notes of coconut in the shrimp mirror those in the margarita, creating a harmonious flavor profile. This seafood treat is crispy on the outside, tender inside, and pairs beautifully with the drink’s refreshing lime.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the zesty margarita, while the creamy texture of the potatoes echoes the drink’s creamy coconut element. This dish adds a warm, earthy component to your holiday table.
Spicy Guacamole: A dollop of spicy guacamole offers a perfect balance to the margarita’s tartness. The creaminess of the avocado harmonizes with the cocktail’s textures, making for a delicious bite that everyone will love.
Savory Cheese Board: Include sharp cheeses like aged cheddar and creamy brie to contrast with the margarita’s sweetness. Add some dried fruits and nuts for an array of flavor and texture, making your gathering feel festive and sophisticated.
Cranberry-Brie Crostini: Topped with tart cranberry sauce and creamy brie, these crostini will echo the drink’s festive garnish. They are a delightful finger food that adds an elegant touch to your evening.
Christmas Sugar Cookies: End the night on a sweet note with soft, buttery sugar cookies. Their sweetness will play off the tangy lime and refreshing coconut flavors in your margarita, offering a comforting holiday treat.
Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, consider serving sparkling water with a squeeze of lime alongside the margarita. It provides a palate cleanser that complements the drink perfectly.

These pairings will not only elevate your cocktail experience but also create a memorable festive atmosphere for you and your loved ones. Enjoy!

Expert Tips for White Christmas Margarita

Shake Well: Always ensure you shake the cream of coconut thoroughly before mixing to prevent any separation in your White Christmas Margarita.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for a brighter, tangier flavor that perfectly balances the creaminess of the coconut.
Serve Immediately: This cocktail is best enjoyed right after mixing to preserve its refreshing texture and beautiful presentation.
Tequila Choice: Opt for blanco tequila to keep the drink’s color vibrant and bright; darker tequilas can muddy the visual appeal.
Customize Flavor: Feel free to experiment with flavored vodkas or fruit purees, which can add your unique twist to this classic holiday drink.

How to Store and Freeze White Christmas Margarita

Fridge: Store any leftover cocktail mixture (without ice) in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Give it a good shake before serving again.

Freezer: If you want to pre-mix your ingredients, combine the non-carbonated components and freeze in an ice cube tray. Use these cubes for a slushy drink later, but consume within 1 month.

Reheating: Since this is a cocktail meant to be enjoyed fresh, avoid reheating. Shake well and serve cold for the best flavor experience.

Make-Ahead Tips: For ease, you can prep the rim and garnishes ahead of time. Keep the candied coconut and rosemary in separate containers in the fridge for quick assembly before serving your White Christmas Margarita.

White Christmas Margarita Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe cranberries for my White Christmas Margarita?
Absolutely! When picking cranberries, look for ones that are firm and bright red. Avoid any that are bruised or have dark spots. The brighter the color, the better the flavor—fresh cranberries add a beautiful tart burst to your cocktail!

How long can I store my White Christmas Margarita in the fridge?
You can store any leftover cocktail mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to give it a good shake before serving it again, as the ingredients may settle. To ensure your drink remains vibrant, avoid storing it with ice, as that can dilute the flavor.

Can I freeze the White Christmas Margarita?
Very! To freeze your White Christmas Margarita, I recommend mixing only the non-carbonated components—lime juice, cream of coconut, Cointreau, and tequila. Pour this mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, just blend the cubes for a slushy version of this festive cocktail!

What do I do if my coconut doesn’t stick to the glass rim?
If you find that the dried unsweetened shredded coconut isn’t adhering well to the rim, try using cream of coconut syrup instead of lime juice to wet your glass. This thicker, sweeter alternative often helps the coconut cling better, giving you that tropical flair you desire!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re making this cocktail for a gathering, it’s important to note that the White Christmas Margarita contains alcohol. For guests who prefer non-alcoholic options, consider replacing the alcohol with flavored sparkling water for a festive mocktail. Additionally, if anyone has coconut allergies, you may want to skip the coconut ingredients and experiment with other flavors, such as chocolate or fruit purees.

Can I prepare the White Christmas Margarita ahead of time?
Definitely! For a stress-free holiday gathering, you can prepare the rim and garnishes ahead of time. Keep the shredded coconut in one container and the rosemary and cranberries in another in the fridge. That way, when it’s time to mix your drinks, you can quickly assemble everything without any fuss. Cheers to easy entertaining!