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Home » Recipes » Beverages

Published: Jun 20, 2018 · Modified: Mar 16, 2024 by Amanda McGrory-Dixon

Coconut Margarita

Jump to Recipe
A hand holding a coconut margarita on a wooden surface with text overlay on top of the image.
A hand holding a coconut margarita on a wooden surface with text overlay on top of the image.

If you want to pretend you're on a tropical escape, do yourself a favor and whip up this sweet and tart coconut margarita! Made with cream of coconut and fresh lime juice, this is one margarita full of tropical flavor. With just one sip, this fruity coconut margarita will trick you into thinking you're sipping refreshing cocktails on a beach getaway.

A coconut margarita with a yellow napkin and lime slices on the side with toasted coconut scattered around it.
Jump to:
  • Why You'll Love This Recipe
  • Ingredients
  • Step-by-Step Instructions
  • How to Make a Pitcher of Coconut Margaritas
  • Recipe FAQs
  • Variations and Substitutions
  • Expert Tips for Making the Best Margaritas
  • Perfect Pairing
  • Enjoy More Margaritas
  • 📖 Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

A tropical take on a classic: I love a classic margarita. In fact, I strongly believe everyone should have a go-to classic margarita recipe that ditches the mix and uses only tequila, orange liqueur, fresh lime juice and a touch of simple syrup if desired.

While it's important to have that baseline for a proper margarita, let's make our hearts happy and have some fun with flavored margaritas. So without further ado, I present this coconut margarita recipe!

Perfect for pool sipping and any outdoor party: If you're somewhere tropical or by a pool, I wouldn't blame you for trying to drink your weight in pina coladas — a noble goal. But why stop at pina coladas? Coconut margaritas bring that same tropical vibe, but served on the rocks, they're not as heavy, which makes them great for pool sipping.

Quick and easy: These tropical margaritas are super easy to whip up. They only require a few ingredients, and you can have this refreshing beach cocktail in hand in under five minutes.

Related: If you can't get enough tropical margarita recipes, you'll also love my pina colada margarita and passion fruit margarita.

Ingredients

The coconut margarita ingredients with black and white labels on a wooden board.

Tequila: I've made this recipe with both reposado tequila and blanco tequila. While you can certainly use either variety, I prefer reposado. This type of tequila ages in oak barrels from anywhere from two to 12 months, which gives it a more nuanced flavor with hints of vanilla. Blanco, also known as white or silver tequila, goes straight into stainless barrels, so we don't get those delicious aging notes. 

Cream of coconut: I took the Pepsi Challenge and made these margaritas with both coconut milk and cream of coconut to see how the ingredients compared. Matt and I agreed that cream of coconut was the winner.

Now, the coconut milk was still enjoyable. We certainly finished our drinks without a problem, but the strong coconut flavor wasn't as prominent. Cream of coconut is also one of the classic ingredients in a pina colada, so it gave that exact sweetness I was craving.

Orange liqueur: For a top-shelf margarita, I love Cointreau or Grand Marnier. Triple sec also works well. 

Lime juice: Make sure you use freshly squeezed lime juice. The bottled juice is not nearly as bright tasting. The best margaritas absolutely call for fresh juice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Toasted Coconut Rim

Step 1: For a fun toasted coconut rim, we pour some honey or agave nectar on a small plate and add toasted coconut to another plate. We then dip the rim of the glass in the honey and then swirl it in the toasted coconut flakes (photo 1).

Swirling the glass in toasted coconut on a small white plate.

Mix the Margarita

Step 2: Now we add our cream of coconut, tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur to a cocktail shaker (photo 2) and toss in a handful of ice cubes into the mixture.

Pouring cream of coconut into a clear crystal cocktail shaker on a wooden board.

Step 3: We put on the cocktail shaker top and vigorously shake for 15-30 seconds (photo 3).

Shaking the margarita with two hands against a wooden board surface.

Strain, Garnish and Serve

Step 4: All that's left is to strain our delicious coconut beverage into our glass and garnish with a fresh lime wedge.

Straining the margarita into a glass with a coconut rim.

Find a spot on the patio, give it a taste and enjoy those tropical vibes! Delicious, isn't it?

Bonus: For more beachy cocktails, you'll also love my passion fruit martini, Painkiller cocktail and mango mojito.

How to Make a Pitcher of Coconut Margaritas

For your next summer party, you need a pitcher of coconut margaritas ready to go. Here's how to do it.

  • Simply stir together the tequila, cream of coconut, lime juice and orange liqueur in a large pitcher.
  • Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. After that, the lime juice starts to lose its brightness.
  • Stir before stirring since the cream of coconut will settle on the bottom of the pitcher.
  • While guests can serve themselves from the pitcher, I recommend still shaking each drink. Not only does this better incorporate the thick cream of coconut but it adds the necessary dilution, and it aerates the drink for a nicer texture.

You can find the exact proportions for a pitcher in the notes section of the recipe card.

Recipe FAQs

How do you toast coconut for the rim?

To toast coconut, we add a handful of flakes to a non-stick skillet and turn the heat to medium. We then let the heat work its magic, and the coconut will start to brown after a few minutes. Make sure you periodically shake the pan to keep the coconut from burning. You'll know it's done when it turns fragrant, and some flakes will turn brown.

What if I only have coconut milk instead of cream of coconut?

Although I highly recommend using cream of coconut for this recipe, you technically could use canned coconut milk with 1 ounce of simple syrup. Make sure you shake the canned coconut milk well before using. I do not recommend the refrigerated type of coconut milk that is sold near the dairy alternatives.

How do you choose the best tequila for margaritas?

Look for the best 100% agave tequila that fits your budget. Don't feel like you have to spend a fortunate. A mid-range tequila is perfectly fine.

I'm especially partial to Corralejo, and we always keep a bottle on hand — it's silky smooth at a great price point.

Can you adjust this recipe to make a frozen coconut margarita?

Absolutely. Instead of shaking the ingredients in a cocktail shaker, we add them to a blender with ½-1 cup crushed ice and blend until smooth.

Rather than cubed ice, I definitely recommend crushed ice. It blends much easier to give you a smoother texture.

Can you make this into a mocktail margarita?

Sure, simply substitute the regular tequila for a zero-proof tequila. These days, we have so many more nonalcoholic spirit options, and it's a great way to still enjoy margaritas without the kick.

A coconut margarita with a yellow and white napkin to the right and a plate of coconut behind it.

Variations and Substitutions

While I've made this margarita so many times and find it perfect as is, you can absolutely put your own spin on it. Here are a few suggestions.

Give it a spicy kick: Muddle a couple jalapeño slices with the cream of coconut before mixing or use Tajin on the rim.

Add an extra fruity twist: To add a strawberry flavor, for instance, you can muddle some fresh strawberries before mixing.

Use another spirit: Not a big tequila fan? Try this with rum or vodka — I bet you'll love the results.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Margaritas

Make sure you use cream of coconut, not coconut cream: They are very different products. You can generally find cream of coconut near the cocktail mixers, and it comes in either a can or squeeze bottle. 

Grab limes that have some give when you squeeze them: If the limes are hard, they're dried out. 

Before juicing the lime, firmly roll it on the countertop under the palm of your hand: This helps get the juices flowing. 

Adjust sweetness to your taste: Given that I was going for that kind of sweetness you get in a pina colada, I used 3 ounces of cream of coconut. If you don't like your drinks sweet, you may want to tone down the cream of coconut to 1 ounce. But if you're like me and dig pina coladas, 3 ounces should be just right.

Perfect Pairing

My tropical pico de gallo with mango, papaya, toasted coconut and fresh ginger is an obvious choice with this coconut margarita. You also love my lobster tacos with mango-habanero salsa with this summery sipper.

If you’re craving dessert, my strawberry mojito sorbet is a delicious pairing. You could even throw a scoop of sorbet into your coconut margarita for a fun adult float. And who doesn't love fun adult floats? And, of course, my spiced orange tres leches is the perfect sweet end to a margarita night.

Let’s take advantage of this summer weather and make a batch of these coconut margaritas for your next patio dinner. This coconut margarita is everything I love in a summer cocktail, and I hope you love it too.

Cheers!

A hand grabbing a coconut margarita with toasted coconut around it.

Enjoy More Margaritas

  • Two Italian margaritas with a bottle of amaretto in the background with fresh orange and lime slices around them.
    The Best Italian Margarita
  • A raspberry-peach margarita on a colorful napkin with fruit around it.
    Raspberry-Peach Margarita
  • A roasted strawberry margarita on a white wooden board with a pink napkin to the side.
    Roasted Strawberry Margarita
  • Two strawberry-kiwi margaritas on a white wooden board with slices of kiwi and strawberries around them against a blue background.
    Strawberry-Kiwi Margarita

If you love this recipe, please leave a comment with a five-star rating — or simply hit the five-star button in the recipe card. Don't forget to sign up for my newsletter, and you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok.

📖 Recipe

A coconut margarita on a wooden board with a white and yellow napkin to the side.

Coconut Margarita

If you want to pretend you're on a tropical escape, do yourself a favor and whip up this sweet and tart coconut margarita! Made with cream of coconut and fresh lime juice, this is one margarita full of tropical flavor. With just one sip, this fruity coconut margarita will trick you into thinking you're sipping refreshing cocktails on a beach getaway.
5 from 214 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: Cocktails
Cuisine: Mexican
Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Calories: 594kcal
Author: Amanda McGrory-Dixon

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Handheld lime juicer
  • Jigger or small measuring cup

Ingredients

  • Honey optional, for garnish
  • Toasted coconut optional, for garnish (see note)
  • 1-3 ounces cream of coconut depending on sweetness level desired, not coconut milk or coconut cream (see note)
  • 2 ounces tequila preferably reposado
  • 1 ounce orange liqueur preferably Cointreau or Grand Marnier
  • 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice about 1 lime
  • Ice
  • Additional lime slice optional, for garnish

Instructions

  • For a garnished toasted coconut rim, spread the honey on a plate and the toasted coconut on another plate. Dip the serving glass in honey and then swirl in the toasted coconut. Set aside.
  • Pour cream of coconut, tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice in a cocktail shaker. Add a handful of ice. Put the top on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-30 seconds.
  • Strain the shaken margarita into the garnished glass filled with more ice. Garnish with a lime slice. Enjoy!

Notes

Pitcher recipe: For an eight-serving pitcher, stir together 3 cups cream of coconut, 2 cups tequila, 1 cup orange liqueur and 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about eight limes). Refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to serve, stir the pitcher well, pour each drink into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake as you would. Most cocktail shakers can handle two drinks at a time. While you could have guests serve themselves from the pitcher, shaking better incorporates the cream of coconut, adds the necessary dilution and aerates the drink for an improved texture.
  • There is a difference between coconut milk, coconut cream and cream of coconut. They are all three different products. Cream of coconut is typically found in the grocery aisle with drink mixers. It has a syrup-like consistency. 
  • To toast coconut, add to a skillet over medium heat. Cook until the coconut starts to brown and turns fragrant. Stir occasionally. Remove from heat as soon as it toasts.
  • 3 ounces of cream of coconut makes a drink that's sweet like a pina colada. If you prefer your margaritas less sweet, you might prefer 1 ounce cream of coconut.
  • Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1drink | Calories: 594kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Sodium: 46mg | Potassium: 43mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 66g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Mention @BurrataandBubbles or tag #burratandbubbles!

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Comments

    5 from 214 votes (187 ratings without comment)

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    Recipe Rating




  1. Natalie says

    August 05, 2021 at 3:17 am

    5 stars
    Summer, bring it on! I love tropical margaritas. I'm so excited to try this one. Looks refreshing and sooooo delicious with cream inside. Thanks for the lovely recipe!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      August 05, 2021 at 5:53 pm

      You're so welcome, Natalie!

      Reply
  2. Sharon says

    June 30, 2021 at 8:37 am

    5 stars
    This coconut margarita is so refreshing and the perfect summer cocktail. I love the addition of a touch of honey.

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 30, 2021 at 6:17 pm

      It's all so delicious together!

      Reply
  3. Beth says

    June 13, 2021 at 9:13 am

    5 stars
    Yum! My husband and I loved these tonight! They were absolutely amazing with the perfect beachy flavor. Truly the perfect summer margarita!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 13, 2021 at 12:04 pm

      Sounds like a fun evening!

      Reply
  4. Lauren Michael Harris says

    June 13, 2021 at 8:38 am

    5 stars
    This is the most perfect margarita recipe for summertime! I have sent this to my husband to make me asap!!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 13, 2021 at 12:04 pm

      You will both love it!

      Reply
  5. AISilva says

    June 13, 2021 at 8:20 am

    5 stars
    Sign me up for pretending I'm on a tropical escape! This coconut margarita looks so good. Can't wait to sit out in the heat sipping on this drink. Will make it soon!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 13, 2021 at 12:04 pm

      Get ready for some tropical vibes! 😀🍹

      Reply
  6. Lily says

    June 13, 2021 at 8:01 am

    5 stars
    I can't wait to try this recipe this weekend! This is the perfect summer poolside drink... love it!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 13, 2021 at 12:03 pm

      I truly can’t think of a better pool drink!

      Reply
  7. Biana says

    June 13, 2021 at 7:07 am

    5 stars
    Coconut is such a perfect summer ingredient! And I agree with your about coconut cream, that's a perfect ingredient for summer tropical drinks.

    Reply
  8. Natalia says

    June 09, 2021 at 11:42 am

    5 stars
    I've been looking all over for a cocktail recipe that I like. Most are too sour or too strong, but this one was just perfect. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 09, 2021 at 2:40 pm

      You are so welcome!

      Reply
  9. AISilva says

    June 07, 2021 at 7:23 am

    5 stars
    At a time when it's not easy to get away to a beach, this margarita is just what my husband and I need. I can't wait to make this and enjoy the outdoor summer. Thank you, it looks so great!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 07, 2021 at 9:00 am

      Awww, I’m so glad this can bring some tropical vibes to you both!

      Reply
  10. Raquel says

    June 04, 2021 at 8:01 am

    5 stars
    This looks absolutely amazing! Cannot wait to make these this weekend!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 04, 2021 at 7:06 pm

      I’ll cheers to that!

      Reply
  11. Anaiah says

    June 03, 2021 at 8:48 pm

    5 stars
    This coconut drink looks so refreshing!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 04, 2021 at 7:05 pm

      It will totally take you to the beach!

      Reply
  12. Sam says

    June 11, 2020 at 6:31 pm

    This will be perfect for summer BBQ parties. Love how easy it is to make, thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 12, 2020 at 5:27 pm

      You're so welcome!

      Reply
  13. veenaazmanov says

    June 11, 2020 at 3:40 am

    5 stars
    This is so creamy and super delicious. I love the combination. Presentation superb.

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 12, 2020 at 5:28 pm

      Thank you! Glad you enjoyed.

      Reply
  14. Jenna @ SipBiteGo.com says

    June 27, 2019 at 5:26 pm

    5 stars
    I'm right there with you on enjoying margaritas with a little twist. This recipe is part of my roundup of luau party cocktails - https://sipbitego.com/tropical-drink-recipes/

    Cheers!

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      July 01, 2019 at 1:37 am

      Thanks so much for including it! Everything on the roundup looks tasty. ?

      Reply
  15. Lizzie says

    June 23, 2018 at 8:07 pm

    This looks so good! Regarding Triple Sec/Grand Marnier ... I'd use Triple Sec which has a "neutral" alcohol base rather than Grand Marnier which has a brandy base. Big cost difference too, which would allow me to go for top-shelf Tequila. Just a thought.

    Reply
    • Amanda McGrory-Dixon says

      June 24, 2018 at 7:45 pm

      Good point on the cost! While I'm a big Grand Marnier fan, I don't necessarily use it every time I make margaritas. It's more for when I feel like a good splurge. Other times, I'm perfectly happy with regular triple sec. 🙂

      Reply
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Hi, I'm Amanda, a Denver-based lady who believes life is best spent with comforting meals, tasty beverages and good company. When I'm not playing in the kitchen, I'm probably exploring new breweries with my husband, Matt, or obsessing over my adorable dog, Baylor.

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