Let’s upgrade your tequila game with this Cadillac margarita! Made with barrel-aged tequila, rich Grand Marnier and freshly squeezed lime juice, this top-shelf margarita is simple yet full of flavor thanks to its high-quality ingredients. This will be your new go-to margarita recipe.
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Why You Need to Make This Recipe
- The ultimate premium margarita. Cadillac margaritas use only top-shelf ingredients to make a drink that goes down oh-so smoothly.
- Quick and easy as it gets. This may be a high-quality margarita, but that doesn't mean it's difficult to make. Even the beginner mixologist can whip up this cocktail like a pro.
- Universally beloved. Everyone loves even a basic house margarita. Now imagine how happy they'll be when you set a top-shelf margarita in front of your guests.
- Perfect for parties. Not only is a Cadillac margarita a real crowd pleaser but you can easily size up the recipe to serve a large group.
Ingredients
You may have noticed I specified reposado tequila. I almost always prefer reposado in my margaritas, but blanco tequila makes a fine substitution. However, Cadillac margaritas specifically call for reposado.
While blanco tequila doesn't spend any time aging, reposado tequila rests in barrels for two to 12 months. This time in the barrel gives reposado a distinct taste that shows off nutty, vanilla and sweet spice notes, and it makes for a smoother drinking experience.
The other essential ingredient for a top-shelf Cadillac margarita is the Grand Marnier, which is a brandy-based orange liqueur. Most house margaritas use triple sec as the orange liqueur, but Grand Marnier imparts a richer citrus that reminds me of candied peel. I truly think it makes for a more delicious margarita.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: We grab a cocktail shaker and add our tequila, Grand Marnier and freshly squeezed lime juice (photo 1).
Step 2: Now we throw in some ice, put on the top and give it a vigorous shake (photo 2).
Step 3: For a salted rim, we run a lime slice along our serving glass and then swirl it in a plate of coarse sea salt (photo 3).
Step: With our salted rim prepared, we add ice and then strain our margarita into the glass. Now raise a glass to toast and enjoy!
Recipe FAQs
A Cadillac margarita isn’t like a house margarita. It’s specifically made with reposado tequila and Grand Marnier. These premium ingredients make it the “Cadillac” of margaritas if you will.
You sure can! Cadillac margaritas are great for serving in a pitcher for parties. I included proportions in the notes section of the recipe card for a 12-serving pitcher.
If you need more customized measurements, you can easily make the calculations. Cocktails are traditionally measured in ounces, but cups is easier for making a big batch. To get the cups measurement, simply multiple the ounces by the number of desired servings, and then divide that number by eight.
I highly recommend using fresh lime juice. After all, this margarita is all about using the highest-quality ingredients. Bottled juice isn’t nearly as bright and flavorful as fresh lime juice.
Expert Tips
- Pick limes that give in when you squeeze them. This ensures they’re nice and juicy.
- Before juicing the lime, firmly roll it on the countertop a few times to help get the juice flowing.
- The best mixing technique is to use two hands while shaking. This helps ensure you get enough vigorous force behind the shake.
- Cadillac margaritas traditionally don’t call for sweetener. However, if you prefer a little extra sweetness, add 1 ounce of simple syrup or agave nectar.
Perfect Pairing
Of course, margaritas call for Mexican food, and I have some delicious options for you. Love tacos? Try my lobster tacos or Greek lamb tacos. Can't get enough nachos? My jerk pork nachos or ahi nachos are tasty dishes with this Cadillac margarita.
And just in case you need a little more inspiration, you can't go wrong with any of these recipes.
For the ultimate top-shelf margarita, I hope you try this Cadillac margarita. Every sip is as refreshing as it gets, and you won't find a more perfect party cocktail.
Cheers!
Can’t Get Enough Margaritas?
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Cadillac Margarita
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or small measuring cup
- Citrus juicer
Ingredients
- 2 ounces reposado tequila
- 1 ounce Grand Marnier
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice about 1 lime
- Ice
- Additional lime slices for garnish, optional
- Coarse sea salt for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Add the tequila, Grand Marnier, lime juice and a handful of ice to a cocktail shaker.
- Put on the top and shake vigorously, about 15-30 seconds.
- For a salted rim, run a lime slice along the edge of the serving glass. Swirl the moistened rim into a small plate of coarse sea salt. Add ice to the glass.
- Strain the margarita into the serving glass. Garnish with additional lime slices if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a 12-serving pitcher, stir together 3 cups tequila, 1 ½ cups Grand Marnier and 1 ½ cups lime juice.
- Cadillac margaritas traditionally don’t call for sweetener. However, if you prefer a little extra sweetness, add 1 ounce of simple syrup or agave nectar.
- Pick limes that give in when you squeeze them. This ensures they’re nice and juicy.
- Before juicing the lime, firmly roll it on the countertop a few times to help get the juice flowing.
- The best mixing technique is to use two hands while shaking. This helps ensure you get enough vigorous force behind the shake.
- Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.
Wow, this definitely was an upgrade with the grand marnier. I've always loved a margarita but this recipe was outstanding. What a great addition to a margarita. Loved it.
I'm so happy to hear that, Oscar! The Grand Marnier really adds such a delicious flavor.
These margaritas are spectacular! Thanks for a great recipe and such helpful information about what makes them Cadillac!
So glad it was helpful and that you enjoyed!
This is such a delicious cocktail! I am a huge fan of Grand Marnier, and I love the addition of the fresh lime juice here. So good!
Thanks, Alexandra! The fresh lime really makes such a difference!
I love Grand Marnier and I was looking for interesting cocktail recipes. This was delicious! Very "grown up". My mother in law is a tequila lover so between us, we did alright! Definitely making this again.
Sounds like you two had a fun night!
I loved this margarita! It came together so quickly and was super refreshing with just a few ingredients.
This margarita looks so refreshing, tasty, and perfect for parties. Can't wait to try- thanks!
You'll love it!
Well, if I ever have a party again, I know what I'm going to make. 😄 This sounds like a classy drink to serve!
Absolutely! It's always a hit.
That's so interesting about the differences in tequila! I didn't know that. I've never had a Cadillac margarita but it sure looks tasty. 🙂
You will love it!
You can't go wrong with this drink! Your cadillac margarita was amazing and perfect to serve at my party.
Thanks, Anaiah! I'm glad it was a hit.
Definitely my new favorite margarita! The barrel-aged tequila made a huge difference.
No argument from me! I love the richness.
Beep beep I'm ready to roll with these margaritas! I never would have thought to add Grand Marnier to a margarita but it sounds fabulous 🙂
It's a refreshing delight!
This is my all-time favorite drink and I'm so happy to have the recipe! I can't wait to try this the next time I make a Mexican feast at home, it will be so perfect!
For sure! It never fails.
I love how easy and elegant the Cadillac margarita is. Your recipe is easy to follow, and I really liked all the tips provided.
So glad it was helpful, Annie!
GIRLFRIEND! I love me some Margaritas!
You and me both!
Thank you so much for sharing this recipe! It is amazing and super tasty! Will make this again for sure!
You are very welcome -- and thank you!