Blackberries give this spicy margarita its dramatic color and juicy sweetness, while chile de árbol supplies a slow-building kick. Skip the muddler—a hard shake with ice is enough to break down the berries and release the mint’s freshness.
For a more cooling experience, try our Magical Midnight Margarita, made with crushed blackberries and coconut water.
Recipe information
Ingredients
1
Tbsp. kosher salt
Cayenne pepper (optional)
1
lime wedge
6
blackberries, divided
1
chile de árbol
1
mint sprig
2
oz. tequila reposado
1¼
oz. Cointreau
¾
oz. fresh lime juice
Need to make a substitution?
Preparation
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Step 1
Combine 1 Tbsp. kosher salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if using) on a small plate. Rub rim of an old-fashioned or rocks glass with lime; dip in salt mixture. Fill with ice and set aside.
Step 2
Combine 4 blackberries, chile de árbol, 1 chile de árbol, 1 mint sprig, 2 oz. tequila reposado, 1¼ oz. Cointreau, and ¾ oz fresh lime juice in a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker with ice, cover, and shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker is very cold, about 20 seconds. Strain cocktail through a Hawthorne strainer or a slotted spoon into reserved glass. Garnish with 2 blackberries.

