Smooth Blood Orange Cider (Printer-Friendly)

A smooth mix of blood orange, apple cider, and warming spices for a refreshing, flavorful drink.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Spirits and Liqueurs

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

→ Juices

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

→ Sweeteners

06 - 3/4 oz simple syrup or agave nectar

→ Spices

07 - Pinch ground cinnamon
08 - Pinch ground nutmeg

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Pour 1 1/2 oz tequila and 1/2 oz Grand Marnier into a cocktail shaker, then add 2 oz blood orange juice and 2 oz apple cider or unfiltered Honeycrisp juice to build a vibrant flavor foundation.
02 - Incorporate 3/4 oz simple syrup or agave nectar and 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice into the shaker with the base liquids, then sprinkle a pinch each of ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg for subtle warmth.
03 - Fill the shaker slightly over halfway with fresh ice cubes, cover, and shake vigorously for 20 seconds until the exterior feels very cold to ensure proper chilling and mixing.
04 - Optional: Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a rocks or margarita glass and dip it into coarse sea salt to create a salted edge that complements the drink.
05 - Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass with or without the salted rim. Garnish with apple or blood orange slices and a cinnamon stick. Finish by dusting additional cinnamon on top for aroma.

# Additional Suggestions:

01 - For best flavor, use freshly squeezed juices and quality tequila. Adjust spice quantity to taste for desired warmth.