Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sparkling Rhubarb Margarita is a bright, refreshing cocktail that combines the tart flavor of rhubarb with zesty lime, smooth tequila, and a bubbly finish. With its vibrant color and balance of sweet and tangy notes, this drink is perfect for spring and summer sipping, brunches, or happy hour with a seasonal twist.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
rhubarb stalkswatergranulated sugarsilver tequilafresh lime juicesparkling water or club sodatriple sec or orange liqueuricecitrus salt or sugar (for rimming glasses)lime wedges (for garnish)
directions
To make rhubarb syrup, chop rhubarb and combine it with water and sugar in a saucepan.
Simmer over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, until rhubarb breaks down and syrup thickens slightly.
Strain through a fine mesh sieve and let cool completely.
Rim your glasses with lime juice, then dip into sugar or citrus salt. Set aside.
In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and 2–3 tablespoons of rhubarb syrup.
Add ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.
Fill glasses with fresh ice and strain the mixture into each glass.
Top with sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy finish.
Garnish with a lime wedge or a thin slice of rhubarb.
Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 2 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesRhubarb syrup time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes
Variations
Use blood orange juice in place of lime for a fruitier spin.
Add a splash of ginger beer instead of sparkling water for a spicy twist.
Infuse the rhubarb syrup with mint or basil for herbal flavor.
Swap tequila for mezcal for a smoky variation.
Make it a mocktail by omitting the alcohol and doubling the sparkling water.
storage/reheating
Store leftover rhubarb syrup in the refrigerator in a sealed jar for up to 1 week.Shake cocktails fresh before serving—do not store assembled margaritas with sparkling water added.
FAQs
Can I use frozen rhubarb?
Yes, thaw and drain it first—it’s perfect for making syrup.
Is this margarita very sweet?
No, it’s well-balanced between sweet, tart, and fizzy; adjust syrup to taste.
Do I have to rim the glass?
No, but it adds a festive touch and enhances flavor.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes, multiply the ingredients and mix everything except the sparkling water in advance. Add bubbles just before serving.
Can I use a store-bought rhubarb syrup?
Yes, though homemade offers better flavor and control over sweetness.
What tequila works best?
Silver or blanco tequila keeps the flavor crisp and light.
How long does rhubarb syrup last?
Up to 1 week in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Is this drink strong?
It’s a standard-strength cocktail—add more sparkling water to lighten it.
Can I use lemon instead of lime?
Yes, lemon works well, though lime gives the most classic margarita flavor.
Do I need a cocktail shaker?
No, you can mix everything in a glass or jar, but a shaker chills it best.
Conclusion
Sparkling Rhubarb Margarita is a lively, seasonal cocktail that captures the essence of spring in a glass. With homemade rhubarb syrup, zesty lime, and a bubbly finish, it’s a refreshing twist on a classic that’s perfect for any celebration or sunny afternoon.
PrintSparkling Rhubarb Margarita Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing twist on the classic margarita, this sparkling rhubarb version features a homemade rhubarb syrup, fresh lime juice, tequila, and a splash of sparkling water – the perfect cocktail for spring and summer.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped fresh rhubarb
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz rhubarb syrup (from above)
- 1/2 oz orange liqueur (like triple sec or Cointreau)
- 2 oz sparkling water or club soda
- Ice cubes
- Salt or sugar for rimming glass (optional)
- Lime wedge and rhubarb ribbon for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- To make rhubarb syrup: In a small saucepan, combine rhubarb, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool.
- Optional: Rim a glass with lime and dip in salt or sugar. Set aside.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, rhubarb syrup, and orange liqueur with ice. Shake well.
- Strain into an ice-filled glass.
- Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wedge or rhubarb ribbon and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make rhubarb syrup ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Use pink rhubarb for a vibrant cocktail hue.
- Adjust sweetness by increasing or decreasing rhubarb syrup to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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