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Smoky Jalapeño Pineapple Tequila Cooler

Smoky Jalapeño Pineapple Tequila Cooler - featured image

A refreshing summer cocktail that balances sweet pineapple, smoky reposado tequila, and a gentle warmth from fresh jalapeño. Quick and easy to make, it’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for barbecues, lazy afternoons, or any day that needs a little saving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz reposado tequila
  • 3 oz fresh pineapple juice
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • ½ oz simple syrup
  • 23 thin slices fresh jalapeño (plus one for garnish)
  • Ice (large cubes preferred)
  • Smoked salt for rim (optional)
  • Pineapple wedge for garnish
  • Jalapeño slice for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep your glass: Run a lime wedge around the rim of a highball glass, then dip the rim into a small plate of smoked salt to coat evenly. Set aside.
  2. Muddle the jalapeño: Drop 2-3 thin slices of jalapeño into a cocktail shaker. Gently press and twist with a muddler or the handle of a wooden spoon about 5-6 times to release oils.
  3. Add the liquids: Pour in 2 oz reposado tequila, 3 oz fresh pineapple juice, 1 oz fresh lime juice, and ½ oz simple syrup.
  4. Add ice and shake: Fill the shaker about ¾ full with ice. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until the shaker feels frosty.
  5. Strain and pour: Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice. Strain the cocktail into the glass, leaving the jalapeño slices and pulp behind.
  6. Garnish: Add a fresh jalapeño slice and a small pineapple wedge to the rim of the glass.
  7. Serve immediately.

Notes

Adjust sweetness and spice to taste. For less heat, remove seeds from jalapeño. For more heat, add a slice of serrano or leave seeds in. Prep ahead by mixing liquids (minus jalapeño and ice) and refrigerating for up to 2 days. Always strain to avoid floating jalapeño bits.

Nutrition

Keywords: tequila cocktail, summer drink, jalapeño, pineapple, smoky, easy cocktail, reposado, spicy margarita alternative