Smooth Blood Orange Cider (Ready-to-Print Version)

A refreshing blend of blood orange juice, apple cider, tequila, and warming spices with a smooth finish.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Spirits and Liquors

01 - 1 1/2 fl oz high-quality silver or reposado tequila
02 - 1/2 fl oz Grand Marnier (orange liqueur)

→ Juices

03 - 2 fl oz freshly squeezed blood orange juice
04 - 2 fl oz apple cider or unfiltered Honeycrisp juice
05 - 3/4 fl oz fresh lemon juice

→ Sweeteners

06 - 3/4 fl oz simple syrup or agave nectar

→ Spices

07 - Pinch ground cinnamon
08 - Pinch ground nutmeg

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Pour 1 1/2 fl oz tequila and 1/2 fl oz Grand Marnier into a cocktail shaker. Add 2 fl oz fresh blood orange juice and 2 fl oz apple cider or unfiltered Honeycrisp juice to build a vibrant, fruity foundation.
02 - Add 3/4 fl oz simple syrup or agave nectar, followed by 3/4 fl oz fresh lemon juice. Sprinkle a pinch each of ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg over the mixture for warming complexity.
03 - Fill the shaker slightly over halfway with fresh ice cubes. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for approximately 20 seconds until the shaker exterior becomes very cold, ensuring thorough mixing and chilling.
04 - Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a rocks or margarita glass and dip it into coarse sea salt to coat. This adds a contrasting savory edge to each sip but can be omitted based on preference.
05 - Strain the chilled mixture into the prepared glass, with or without the salted rim. Garnish with apple or blood orange slices and a cinnamon stick. For an aromatic finish, dust a small amount of additional cinnamon atop.

# Handy Tips:

01 - Dusting cinnamon on top enhances the aroma and adds a fragrant note to the first sip.
02 - Use freshly squeezed juices for optimal flavor brightness and balance.