Sugar Sunset Margaritas with Fresh Citrus Juice Recipe
Introduction
Bright and refreshing, Sugar Sunset Margaritas combine fresh citrus juices with a touch of sweetness and a splash of soda for a delightful twist on a classic cocktail. Perfect for warm evenings or casual gatherings, this drink balances tangy lime and orange flavors with smooth silver tequila.

Ingredients
- 8 oranges
- 6 limes
- 3/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- Granulated sugar, to taste (for rimming the glass)
- 2 fluid ounces silver tequila
- Fruit soda, as needed
- Club soda, to taste
- Ice, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Juice the oranges and limes separately. Set both juices aside for later use.
- Step 2: Make a simple syrup by combining the granulated sugar and water in a small pan over low heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, then allow the syrup to cool.
- Step 3: Wet the rim of a chilled glass with lime juice, then invert it onto granulated sugar to coat the rim. Fill the glass with crushed ice.
- Step 4: Pour the following over the ice in this order: club soda to your preferred amount, lime juice, silver tequila, simple syrup, and finally the orange juice.
- Step 5: Stir the mixture gently to combine. Top off the drink with fruit soda as desired, and enjoy your Sugar Sunset Margarita!
Tips & Variations
- Use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor and brightness in your margaritas.
- For a spicier kick, add a slice of jalapeño or a dash of chili powder to the simple syrup while heating.
- Swap fruit soda with flavored sparkling water for a lighter alternative.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of simple syrup or sugar on the rim according to your taste.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store the simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Fresh citrus juice can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours but tends to degrade quickly. Assemble the margarita just before serving for the best taste and fizz.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the simple syrup in advance?
Yes, simple syrup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making your margarita preparation faster on the day of serving.
What if I don’t have fruit soda?
If you don’t have fruit soda, you can substitute it with flavored sparkling water, soda water with a splash of fruit juice, or simply omit it for a less sweet drink.
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Sugar Sunset Margaritas with Fresh Citrus Juice Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Sugar Sunset Margaritas are a refreshing cocktail combining freshly squeezed orange and lime juices with a homemade simple syrup, silver tequila, and refreshing sodas. Served over crushed ice with a sugar-rimmed glass, this vibrant drink perfectly balances citrus tang and sweetness for a delightful sunset-inspired margarita experience.
Ingredients
Fresh Juices
- 8 Oranges, juiced
- 6 Limes, juiced
Simple Syrup
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 3/4 cup Water
For the Glass and Serving
- Granulated Sugar, to taste (for rimming)
- 2 fluid ounces Silver Tequila
- Fruit Soda, as needed (for topping)
- Club Soda, to taste
- Ice, to taste (preferably crushed)
Instructions
- Juice Citrus: Juice the oranges and limes separately and set each juice aside for layering in the drink.
- Make Simple Syrup: In a small pan over low heat, combine 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 3/4 cup water. Stir continuously until the sugar fully dissolves. Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare Glass: Moisten the rim of a chilled glass with fresh lime juice, then invert the rim into granulated sugar to coat it evenly. Fill the glass with crushed ice to your preference.
- Layer Ingredients: Over the ice, pour club soda to taste, followed by the freshly squeezed lime juice, 2 fluid ounces of silver tequila, the cooled simple syrup, and finish with the fresh orange juice.
- Final Touch and Serve: Stir the concoction gently to combine flavors without disturbing the sugar rim. Top off the drink with fruit soda as desired and serve immediately for a refreshing experience.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed juices for best flavor and freshness.
- Adjust sweetness by modifying the amount of simple syrup or sugar on the rim according to taste.
- Crushed ice chills the drink quickly and dilutes it slightly for a balanced taste.
- Silver tequila is preferred for a smooth and clean flavor profile.
- For a more intense citrus aroma, zest some of the citrus before juicing and add a pinch to the drink if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: margarita, citrus cocktail, tequila cocktail, summer drink, simple syrup, orange juice, lime juice, refreshing beverage

