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Another day, another Kauai-inspired recipe! But this time, it’s our go-to cocktail while we’re on the island. Fresh, slightly smoky, The Kauai Margarita (Smoky Pineapple Margarita) is beyond delicious, with just the right balance of sweet and heat.
Y’all know that my husband, Clayton, is the resident mixologist in our house, and that definitely continues on vacation! The Kauai Margarita (Smoky Pineapple Margarita) is his go-to cocktail whenever we’re in Kauai, and I knew it deserved a permanent place on the blog so y’all can enjoy it on your own vacations—or anytime you want to bring those vacation vibes home.
Now, let’s talk flavor! The pineapple brings the perfect tropical sweetness, while Ancho Reyes, a poblano-infused liqueur, adds a subtle smoky heat. The final result is almost like a skinny, tropical margarita with just the right amount of spice. An absolute winner all around!
Ingredients:
- Blanco Tequila
- Ancho Reyes
- Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
- Pineapple Juice
- Agave Nectar
Recipe step-by-step:
Step One: Combine Ingredients
Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, add ice, and shake until very well combined.
Step Two: Serve and Enjoy
Strain over two glasses filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of pineapple, if desired.
Recipe FAQ:
This is a Mexican chile liqueur made from ancho (dried poblano) peppers! It adds a smoky, slightly spicy flavor that works beautifully in this cocktail. I wouldn’t say it makes the drink super spicy, but it does add a little heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a little less, then taste and add more as desired.
I prefer a blanco tequila, and LALO is our go-to! But if you prefer a reposado, it will work beautifully—it’ll just give the cocktail a richer, slightly oakier flavor.
Yes! You can easily scale up this recipe and make it ahead of time. Simply combine all of the ingredients except the ice, then store the mixture in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, shake with ice and strain in glasses over fresh ice.
I can’t wait for y’all to shake these up! Comment below once you try this drink — and be sure to tag me in your “cheers” on Instagram!
For more cocktail recipes:
The Kauai Margarita (Smoky Pineapple Margarita)
Ingredients
- 3 oz blanco tequila
- 1.5 oz Ancho Reyes
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz agave nectar
- Sliced pineapple, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, add ice, and shake until very well combined.
- Strain over two glasses filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of pineapple, if desired.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Photography and styling by Eat Love Eats.
