9 Cinco de Mayo Drink Recipes (2024)

¡Viva la Fiesta!

Cinco de Mayo is a holiday that’s celebrated with great enthusiasm in Mexico, as well as many other parts of the world. The fifth of May marks the day when the Mexican army defeated French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, and it has since become a symbol of Mexican pride and resilience. The day is celebrated with parades, music, dance, and of course, food and drink. Lets celebrate with these 9 Cinco de Mayo Drink Recipes.

A Brief History Lesson

Although it’s often mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day (which actually falls on September 16), Cinco de Mayo remains an important holiday in Mexican culture. In fact, it’s more widely celebrated in the United States than it is in Mexico!

The origins of this holiday date back to the Franco-Mexican War in the 19th century. After years of political turmoil and financial instability following its independence from Spain, Mexico was forced to default on its debts to European countries like France.

In response, French forces invaded Mexico with hopes of establishing a monarchist government there. However, on May 5th, 1862 – against all odds – Mexican troops defeated the better-equipped French army at Puebla.

This victory became a rallying cry for Mexicans who had grown tired of foreign interference in their affairs. Though France eventually did take control over much of Mexico before being expelled by President Benito Juarez four years later, Cinco de Mayo remains a symbol not just of military success but also cultural identity and pride.

The Importance of Drinks

As with any celebration worth its salt (or tequila), drinks play an integral role in Cinco de Mayo festivities. Margaritas are perhaps the most iconic drink associated with this holiday – who doesn’t love a refreshing blend of lime juice, tequila, and triple sec on a hot summer day?

But there are plenty of other drinks to choose from as well. From traditional Mexican beers like Corona and Dos Equis to fruity agua frescas made with fresh fruit and water, there’s something for everyone at a Cinco de Mayo party.

And let’s not forget about the Michelada, a spicy beer co*cktail that’s perfect for those who like their drinks with a little kick. In many ways, the variety of drinks available at Cinco de Mayo celebrations reflects the diversity of Mexican culture itself.

Whether you prefer sweet or sour, spicy or mild, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, there’s sure to be a drink that hits the spot. So grab your glasses and raise them high – ¡salud!

Classic Margarita Recipes

1. Spicy Cucumber Jalapeno Margarita

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz Cointreau or Triple Sec
• Salt for rimming the glass
• 3-4 slices of cucumber
• 2-3 slices of jalapeño (adjust according to spice preference)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional)
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing your glass. Take a slice of lime and rub it around the rim of the glass. Dip the rim into a plate filled with salt to create a salt rim.
2. In a co*cktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, Cointreau or Triple Sec, cucumber slices, and jalapeño slices. Adjust the number of jalapeño slices based on your desired level of spiciness. If you prefer a sweeter margarita, you can also add the optional simple syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to ensure the drink is well chilled and the flavors are infused.
4. Place a strainer over the prepared glass and strain the margarita into the glass, discarding the cucumber and jalapeño slices.
5. Add a few ice cubes to the glass and garnish with a slice of lime or a jalapeño slice if desired.
6. Give the margarita a gentle stir to incorporate any remaining salt from the rim.
7. Sip and savor the spicy kick of this delightful Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita. Enjoy responsibly!

This variation adds a touch of heat to the classic margarita by incorporating fresh jalapeño slices. The combination of cooling cucumber, tangy lime, and spicy jalapeño creates a unique and exciting flavor profile. Cheers to a deliciously spicy margarita experience!

2. Spicy Jalapeno Margarita

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz tequila
• 1 oz fresh-squeezed lime juice
• 3 slices jalapeno pepper (seeds removed)
• 1/4 oz agave nectar
• Salt for rimming the glass
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing your glass. Take a slice of lime and rub it around the rim of the glass. Dip the rim into a plate filled with salt to create a salt rim.
2. In a co*cktail shaker, muddle the three slices of jalapeno pepper. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to crush and release the spicy flavors.
3. Add ice cubes to the shaker, followed by tequila, fresh-squeezed lime juice, and agave nectar.
4. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine the ingredients and infuse the flavors.
5. Place a strainer over the salt-rimmed glass and strain the margarita into the glass, discarding the jalapeno solids.
6. If desired, you can add a few fresh jalapeno slices to the glass for an additional garnish and extra spice.
7. Give the margarita a gentle stir to incorporate any remaining salt from the rim.
8. Sip and savor the fiery heat of this Spicy Jalapeno Margarita, as the flavors of tequila, lime, and jalapeno come together to create a vibrant and exhilarating experience.

Remember to enjoy responsibly, and be prepared for a spicy kick with every sip! Cheers!

3. Fruity Mango Margarita

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz tequila
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1 oz mango puree
• 1/2 oz Cointreau or Triple Sec
• Salt for rimming the glass
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing your glass. Take a slice of lime and rub it around the rim of the glass. Dip the rim into a plate filled with salt to create a salt rim.
2. In a co*cktail shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, mango puree, and Cointreau or Triple Sec.
3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds, allowing the ingredients to blend and chill.
4. Place a strainer over the salt-rimmed glass and strain the margarita into the glass.
5. Add a few ice cubes to the glass to keep it cool and refreshing.
6. If desired, you can garnish the margarita with a slice of lime or a slice of fresh mango for an extra tropical touch.
7. Give the margarita a gentle stir to incorporate any remaining salt from the rim.
8. Sip and enjoy the fruity and tropical flavors of this Mango Margarita. The combination of tequila, tangy lime, and sweet mango puree will transport you to a sunny paradise.

Whether you’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo or simply looking for a refreshing and tropical co*cktail, this Mango Margarita is sure to satisfy your cravings. Cheers!

Refreshing Agua Fresca Recipes

When the sun is shining bright on a Cinco de Mayo celebration, nothing beats a refreshing agua fresca. These drinks are light, flavorful, and perfect for keeping you hydrated in the heat. Here are three agua fresca recipes that will make your taste buds dance:

4. Classic Watermelon Agua Fresca with Fresh Mint Leaves

Ingredients:

• 1 small watermelon, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, add the watermelon chunks and blend until smooth and liquefied.
2. Pour the blended watermelon into a pitcher through a fine mesh strainer to remove any pulp or seeds.
3. Add the sugar to the pitcher and stir until dissolved. Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
4. Squeeze the juice of one lime into the pitcher and stir to incorporate.
5. Place the pitcher in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
6. When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes.
7. Give the agua fresca a good stir and pour it over the ice cubes.
8. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint leaves for added fragrance and freshness.
9. Stir gently before sipping and enjoy the cool, sweet, and minty flavors of this classic watermelon agua fresca.

This agua fresca is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day or as a delightful and refreshing beverage for your Cinco de Mayo celebration. The combination of watermelon, sugar, lime, and fresh mint leaves creates a harmonious and invigorating drink. Salud!

5. Tangy Pineapple Agua Fresca with Lime Juice

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized pineapple, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedges, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, add the pineapple chunks and blend until smooth and well pureed.
2. Pour the blended pineapple into a pitcher through a strainer to remove any fibrous pulp.
3. Add the sugar to the pitcher and stir until it dissolves. Adjust the amount of sugar based on your desired level of sweetness.
4. Squeeze the juice of fresh limes into the pitcher, making sure to strain out any seeds.
5. Stir the mixture well to combine all the flavors.
6. Place the pitcher in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.
7. When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes.
8. Pour the tangy pineapple agua fresca into the glasses.
9. Optionally, garnish each glass with a lime wedge for an extra citrusy touch.
10. Stir gently and enjoy the refreshing and tangy flavors of this pineapple agua fresca.

This delightful drink is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day or as a delicious addition to your Cinco de Mayo celebration. The combination of sweet pineapple and tangy lime juice creates a tropical and invigorating experience. Salud!

6. Sweet and Creamy Horchata

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the white rice and water. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and the rice is well ground.
2. Place a fine mesh strainer over a pitcher or large bowl. Pour the rice mixture through the strainer to separate the liquid from the rice solids. Press the mixture with a spoon or spatula to extract as much liquid as possible.
3. Discard the rice solids and transfer the liquid back into the pitcher.
4. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to the pitcher. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
5. Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the horchata to cool.
6. When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes.
7. Give the horchata a good stir, as some settling may have occurred.
8. Pour the sweet and creamy horchata over the ice cubes and enjoy!

Horchata is a classic and refreshing drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture, combined with the sweetness of sugar and the warmth of cinnamon, makes it a delightful treat. Sip and savor this traditional horchata recipe for a taste of Mexican-inspired goodness. ¡Salud!

Unique Michelada Recipes

Micheladas are a popular beer-based co*cktail originating in Mexico. They are traditionally made with tomato juice, hot sauce, and lime, but there are many variations that can be just as delicious. Here are three unique Michelada recipes to spice up your Cinco de Mayo celebration.

7. Classic Michelada

Ingredients:

• Salt: Use enough salt to coat the rim of the glass (adjust to taste)
• Lime wedges: 1 lime wedge for moistening the rim and garnishing
• Hot sauce (such as Tabasco): Add several dashes, adjusting to your preferred level of spiciness
• Worcestershire sauce: Add a few dashes for a savory kick
• Tomato juice: Fill the glass halfway with tomato juice
• Beer (such as Mexican lager): Slowly pour cold beer into the glass, filling it to the top (typically a 12-ounce/355 ml bottle or can)
• Ice cubes: Fill the glass with ice cubes to your desired level

Instructions:

1. Moisten the rim of a tall glass with a lime wedge.
2. Dip the rim of the glass in salt to create a salted rim.
3. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
4. Add several dashes of hot sauce to the glass, adjusting the amount according to your preferred level of spiciness.
5. Add a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce for a savory kick.
6. Pour tomato juice into the glass, filling it halfway.
7. Give the mixture a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
8. Slowly pour cold beer into the glass, filling it to the top.
9. Garnish with a lime wedge.
10. Give the Michelada a final stir to ensure all the flavors are well mixed.
11. Sip and enjoy this classic and refreshing Michelada, with the perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and savory flavors.

The Michelada is a popular Mexican drink, known for its unique combination of spices and beer. It’s a refreshing option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful and slightly spicy beverage. Salud!

8. Spicy Chamoy Michelada

Ingredients:

• Chamoy sauce: Start with a few teaspoons, and adjust according to your taste.
• Tajin seasoning: Sprinkle a small amount on the rim of the glass.
• Lime wedges: Use 1-2 lime wedges for squeezing the juice into the drink and garnishing.
• Salt: Coat the rim of the glass with salt mixed with Tajin seasoning.
• Beer: Fill the glass with beer, leaving some space at the top to prevent overflowing when stirring.
• Ice cubes: Fill the glass with ice cubes to your desired level.

Instructions:

1. Moisten the rim of a glass with a lime wedge.
2. Dip the rim of the glass in a mixture of salt and Tajin seasoning, coating it evenly.
3. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
4. Add a few teaspoons of chamoy sauce to the glass, adjusting the amount based on your preference for sweetness and tanginess.
5. Squeeze the juice of a lime wedge into the glass.
6. Pour beer into the glass, filling it to the top.
7. Give the mixture a good stir to combine all the flavors.
8. Garnish with a lime wedge.
9. Enjoy the spicy and tangy goodness of this Chamoy Michelada!

This Spicy Chamoy Michelada is a unique twist on the classic Michelada, adding the bold and tangy flavors of chamoy and Tajin seasoning. It’s a perfect combination of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, making it an exciting and refreshing drink choice. ¡Salud!

9. Sweet Mango Michelada

Ingredients:

• Mango puree: 2 tablespoons
• Chili powder: As needed to coat the rim of the glass
• Lime wedges: 1 lime wedge for squeezing into the drink and garnishing
• Salt: As needed to coat the rim of the glass
• Beer (Mexican lager): Typically a 12-ounce (355 ml) bottle or can
• Ice cubes: As needed to fill the glass

Instructions:

1. Moisten the rim of a glass with a lime wedge.
2. Dip the rim of the glass in a mixture of salt and chili powder, coating it evenly.
3. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
4. Add two tablespoons of mango puree to the glass.
5. Squeeze the juice of a lime wedge into the glass.
6. Pour cold beer into the glass, filling it to the top.
7. Stir well until all the ingredients are properly combined.
8. Garnish with a lime wedge.
9. Sip and enjoy the sweet and fruity flavors of this Mango Michelada!

This sweet mango twist on the classic Michelada is a delightful and refreshing option. The addition of mango puree brings a tropical and luscious sweetness to the drink, while the chili powder adds a hint of spice. It’s a perfect balance of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Cheers!

Conclusion

Cinco de Mayo is a fantastic time to enjoy some delicious drinks with friends and family. Whether you prefer a classic margarita, a refreshing agua fresca, or a unique michelada, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We hope that these ten festive drink recipes have inspired you to create your own Cinco de Mayo celebration at home.

To recap, we started with three classic margarita recipes: the traditional lime and salt rim margarita, the spicy jalapeno margarita for those who like it hot, and the fruity mango margarita for a tropical twist. Then we moved onto three refreshing agua fresca recipes: the classic watermelon with fresh mint leaves ague fresca, the tangy pineapple with lime juice ague fresca, and the sweet and creamy horchata made with rice, cinnamon and vanilla.

We ended on four unique michelada recipes: the classic tomato juice michelada with hot sauce and beer; the spicy chamoy michelada with chamoy sauce and tajin seasoning; the sweet mango michelada made with mango puree and chili powder; and lastly a savory bloody mary-inspired michelada. Whether you’re looking to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style or just want to add some excitement to your next happy hour, these ten drink recipes are sure to impress.

Be sure to experiment with different flavors until you find your perfect renditions of these festive drinks. Happy Cinco de Mayo!