I’m switching up the recipe schedule today and sharing a fun cocktail. Typically, I reserve cocktail recipes for Saturdays, but today’s batch-style margarita has me so excited. This feels perfect for the time of year we’re entering, with the weather becoming nicer by the day! The idea for this drink came to me so simply. It’s the time of year when my family usually vacations somewhere tropical and/or begins planning the annual summertime Gerard family vacation. Because we live in a rather chilly climate, our spring and summer travels are always to tropical places.
My favorites thus far are the Bahamas – or really anywhere in the Caribbean, and Jamaica. If you’ve ever been to any of the above locations, you know the drinks are abundant, and the coconuts are literally everywhere. Along with the prettiest flowers, sunny days, and warm, breezy nights—my favorite. After this month, it’s time for one of these vacations. But until then, we can make drinks with the tropics in mind and be transported.
The Details
Step 1: char the jalapeños The heart of this recipe lies with two ingredients: the jalapeño pepper and the sweet, creamy coconut milk. For the jalapeño, you can use a serrano or jalapeño, I love the flavor of both. We’re then going to char the pepper over a gas burner or in a cast-iron skillet to give it a nice smoky flavor and tame the heat a bit. I love to get the jalapeño pretty blackened for the best flavor. Once the jalapeñ0 is charred, let it cool, then cut it in half, and, if desired, remove the seeds. I leave most of the seeds in for a spicier drink.
Step 2: mix the drink The remaining steps are quick. Take the charred jalapeño and muddle it together with fresh basil and tequila. I do this in a pitcher. Now add the orange liquor and lime juice, and then pour over the coconut milk. Give this all a good stir.
Chill the pitcher until you are ready to serve. The longer the jalapeños sit in the drink, the spicer the drink will become. Usually, about two hours is plenty of time for the jalapeños to really infuse the drink and give it great flavor!
Step 3: serve To serve, I like to mix flaky sea salt with lime zest and rim glasses with lime salt. If you have extra charred jalapeños, you can mix the jalapeños with the salt for a spicy, salty kick! Serve the drink straight from the pitcher, then top off each glass with ginger beer if you’re into it. I personally always love a little fizz.
Looking for other drink recipes? Here are some favorites: Frozen Aperol Peach Margarita Salted Spicy Watermelon Margarita Popsicles Creamy Coconut Lime Mojito Frozen Mango Mojito-Rita Strawberry Lemonade Aperol Margarita Lastly, if you make this Spicy Creamy Coconut Lime Margaritas, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And, of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!
