If you love the zing of a margarita but want something a little more playful, this Dr. Pepper Margarita Cocktail is calling your name!
It’s the perfect fusion of classic citrusy tequila with the smooth, spiced sweetness of Dr. Pepper—bubbly, bold, and perfect for laid-back weekends or last-minute happy hours.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Combines margarita flavor with fizzy soda for a fun twist
Just 5 ingredients and ready in minutes
Refreshing and great for parties or game night
Easy to make with basic bar tools
Looks great with a simple lime garnish
Ingredient Highlights
Tequila: The heart of the cocktail—use blanco for a clean, bright flavor
Triple sec: Adds orange citrus depth that balances the lime
Fresh lime juice: Essential for that tangy, tart note
Dr. Pepper: Sweet, spiced, and fizzy—it adds a unique twist to the drink
Lime wheel: A fresh garnish for presentation and aroma
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor
Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra crisp finish
Shake well for proper dilution and a chilled, smooth pour
Adjust the soda amount depending on how strong or sweet you want it
Use pebble or crushed ice if you prefer a slushier texture
How to Make a Dr. Pepper Margarita
Step 1: Combine in Shaker
Add tequila, triple sec, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker.
Step 2: Shake
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
Step 3: Pour Over Ice
Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice (rocks glass or tall glass works great).
Step 4: Top with Dr. Pepper
Pour Dr. Pepper over the shaken mix until the glass is full and fizzy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with a fresh lime wheel and enjoy immediately!
Serving Ideas
Serve alongside nachos, tacos, or grilled fajitas
Add a salted rim for a more traditional margarita feel
Try in a large pitcher for easy party batching
Pair with BBQ sliders or spicy wings for contrast
Variations & Substitutions
Use cherry Dr. Pepper for extra fruitiness
Try with mezcal for a smoky variation
Replace triple sec with Grand Marnier for a richer, deeper orange flavor
Add a splash of simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter finish
Top with soda water instead of Dr. Pepper for a lighter version
Storage Tips
Best served immediately—don’t store assembled cocktails
You can pre-mix the tequila, lime, and triple sec in advance (up to 1 day ahead)
Store pre-mix in the fridge and top with Dr. Pepper just before serving
Always shake with fresh ice to chill before serving
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is best for brightness, but bottled will work in a pinch.
Do I need a cocktail shaker?
You can stir the ingredients in a glass, but shaking creates a better texture.
Is it okay to use diet Dr. Pepper?
Yes! It’ll reduce sugar and calories while still tasting great.
What kind of tequila should I use?
Blanco (silver) tequila works best for a crisp, clean margarita-style flavor.
Can I rim the glass with salt?
Absolutely! Rub the rim with lime and dip in coarse salt for a fun twist.
How strong is this drink?
It’s moderately strong—the soda helps balance the alcohol content nicely.
Can I make this into a frozen drink?
Yes! Blend all ingredients with ice for a frozen version of this cocktail.
Final Thoughts
This Dr. Pepper Margarita is the kind of drink that surprises you in the best way.
It’s fizzy, flavorful, and effortlessly fun—perfect for those nights when you want something unexpected but totally delicious.
I love serving it at cookouts and casual gatherings—it’s always a conversation starter!
