Narrowing down the numerous choices, Mexican drinks are often overshadowed by more popular options. Not only are there many types to explore, but each one offers a unique taste experience that’s worth getting to know. Some have a sweet and refreshing quality, while others possess a savory or sour flavor profile. But whether you’re in the mood for an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink, this comprehensive list has something for everyone.
Spanning 17 delectable choices, it includes both classic favorites like margaritas as well as lesser-known options that are just as delicious.
15+ Great Mexican Cocktails You Need To Try
Margarita
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with experimenting and trying out new margarita recipes. However, when it comes to the quintessential tequila drink, some things are best left unchanged. This recipe stays true to its traditional roots, featuring a classic combination of lime and tequila, finished off with a salted rim that’s sure to bring back memories of a beachside vacation.
The simplicity is part of its charm – it only takes 5 minutes to prepare and requires just five ingredients: tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime juice (and slices for garnishes), agave nectar, and sea salt. With this straightforward recipe, you can’t go wrong.
Michelada
Generally speaking, if you’re in the market for a drink that’s both savory and spicy, you should definitely consider trying a Michelada. This beverage is similar to a Bloody Mary in many ways, but its flavor profile is much richer and more robust. When it comes to making a traditional Mexican michelada, one key difference is the use of Clamato instead of regular tomato juice, which brings it closer to a Canadian Caesar.
Regardless of how you categorize it, this beer cocktail is an absolute must-try at least once in your life.
Paloma
Fresh from the pages of your favorite summer recipes, this revitalizing cocktail is sure to become an instant hit. Not only does it require mere minutes to prepare, but its unique flavor profile will also keep you coming back for more. The harmonious blend of grapefruit and tequila is perfectly balanced, yet still manages to pack a punch that’s both sweet and sour at the same time.
But be warned: this drink may seem innocent on the surface, only to reveal itself as deceptively strong once consumed.
Mexican Hot Chocolate
Here’s how to experience the authentic taste of Mexican hot chocolate: without the addition of rum, which is not a traditional ingredient in this beverage. Instead, you’ll find that it shares similarities with regular hot chocolate, but with a deeper, more robust chocolate flavor and a subtle kick of heat from the spices.
Horchata
Crafted from rice and infused with an unmistakable blend of sweet and spicy flavors, horchata is a refreshing beverage that transcends its humble origins. Its velvety texture and subtle warmth make it the perfect accompaniment to a wide range of dishes, particularly those with bold and fiery flavor profiles.
Whether you’re seeking respite from the intense heat of Mexican cuisine or simply looking for a soothing drink to pair with your meal, horchata is an excellent choice, its rich, milky flavor tempered by just the right amount of cinnamon to add depth and character.
Fruit Agua Frescas
Having spent countless summers sipping on refreshing drinks, I’ve come to appreciate the simplicity and deliciousness of homemade frescas. Unlike commercial fruit juices that are often diluted with water or other additives, these fresh concoctions are a celebration of pure, undiluted flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like strawberry or lemon, or want to experiment with more exotic combinations, the beauty of frescas lies in their versatility.
With just a few ingredients – a combination of sugar and water, and your chosen fruit or berries – you can create a sweet, fruity drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Champurrado
Keeping in mind that many readers may be familiar with Mexican hot chocolate, it’s essential to highlight the distinct characteristics of champurrado. One of its most notable differences is its darker and richer flavor profile compared to hot chocolate, which gives it a thicker consistency. Furthermore, champurrado boasts a more potent and earthy taste that is reminiscent of the ancient Aztecs’ traditional drinking method.
This drink has undergone little to no changes over time, making it an authentic experience for those who try it. If you’re looking for a unique and bold beverage to warm up during the cooler months, champurrado is definitely worth giving a shot.
Ponche
Virtually everyone’s favorite fall drink is Ponche, at least mine. Although I’m not entirely sure if it’s intended to be served during this season, that’s when I enjoy it the most. There’s something special about its unique combination of a hot fruit punch and warm apple cider flavors that really sets it apart from other seasonal drinks. With so much flavor packed into one delicious beverage, it’s almost unbelievable.
While it does take around an hour to cook (but only 10 minutes to prepare), the end result is well worth the time and effort invested. The addition of cinnamon, brown sugar, prunes, apples, pears, raisins, and other tasty ingredients makes it a standout in its own right. And let’s not forget that it also contains rum – a definite plus.
Carajillo
Zestfully sipped by coffee lovers around the world, the carajillo is a simple yet elegant drink that requires minimal ingredients and preparation time. This classic cocktail typically consists of three main components: rich espresso, the sweet and nutty flavors of Licor 43, and crushed or cubed ice to chill it down to perfection. The result is an aesthetically pleasing layered effect that not only delights the eyes but also provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, bold flavor of the espresso.
For those who prefer their coffee in a piping hot state, feel free to omit the ice cubes for a traditional take on this beverage. A decaf option is also available for those looking to skip the caffeine kick, although we must confess that there’s truly no substitute for the invigorating rush of a well-crafted cup of joe!
Atole
Brimming with sweetness, Atole is the antithesis of Mexican hot chocolate. Unlike its rich and spicy counterpart, this comforting drink relies on vanilla as its primary flavor component. The result is a delightful blend of warm, velvety textures and an abundance of sugar and cinnamon that will captivate those who adore these sweet treats.
Cafe de Olla
Yielding to its popularity, this non-alcoholic drink has become a favorite among many, particularly those of us who rely on our daily dose of coffee. To make it, all you’ll need is water, piloncillo (dark brown sugar can be used as a substitute), a Mexican cinnamon stick, ground coffee (dark Mexican coffee is the preferred choice), and about 15 minutes of your time.
Similar to a cinnamon-sprinkled latte in appearance, but with a distinctively different flavor if you opt for dark Mexican coffee, this drink offers a unique twist on traditional coffee-based beverages.
Mangonada (Mango Chamoyada)
Painted with vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and red, the mangonada is a visually stunning concoction that’s almost too beautiful to resist. However, its incredible appearance is only matched by its delicious taste. Preparing this drink takes mere minutes – just 15 minutes, to be exact – but its flavors and textures make it feel like a more substantial treat.
Notably, the mangonada doubles as both a refreshing beverage and a satisfying snack, thanks to the generous sprinkling of fruit chunks throughout. The sweet and tangy interplay between the lime and mango is perfectly balanced by a hint of spiciness courtesy of the chili lime seasoning. To take things up another notch, feel free to infuse your mangonada with a splash of your preferred liquor – I personally prefer vodka.
Cucumber Agua Fresca
Kicking off with a refreshing twist on traditional agua frescas, combining them with cucumber water creates an entirely new drink experience. This cucumber agua fresca is not only sweet and crisp, but also bursting with refreshing qualities that will leave you wanting more. The addition of lemongrass adds a delicate yet distinct touch to the flavor profile, although some may opt for ginger as a substitute, fresh lemongrass undoubtedly brings an unparalleled depth to the drink.
Agua de Jamaica
Taking center stage in this post is a vibrant, deep red beverage that may initially evoke images of blood-sucking vampires, but surprisingly, it’s incredibly palatable. Typically, agua fresca comes in various forms, with hibiscus flowers being the key ingredient this time around. To create this delightful drink, simplicity is the operative word – all you need is water and sugar, aside from the hibiscus flowers, of course.
Preparation time clocks in at approximately 5 minutes, followed by an additional 30 minutes for cooking, during which the drink will release a sweetly floral aroma that will permeate the entire house, leaving everyone wanting more. The flavor profile is characterized as sweet without being overpowering; however, to give it an extra boost of effervescence and visual appeal, feel free to add some seltzer water.
Mezcalita
Generally speaking, a mezcalita is an intense and unique beverage that can catch you off guard with its potency. If you’ve never tried one, imagine a refreshing orange juice infused with a spicy kick, but be warned: it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and down a few too many before realizing just how quickly they can sneak up on you. Fortunately, whipping up a batch is a breeze and only requires five simple ingredients that can be combined in about 10 minutes.
To take your mezcalita game to the next level, don’t skimp on the chili powder seasoning when rimming the glass – it adds an essential burst of heat and flavor. And as for the lime juice, use it liberally to avoid a bland taste. While the orange juice is certainly present in this drink, its overall flavor profile is surprisingly complex and hard to put into words.
Despite the initial hesitation that may come with trying something new, fans of spicy foods and citrus flavors will likely find themselves hooked.
Mexican Bloody Maria
Formally speaking, the Bloody Maria and Bloody Mary share more similarities than differences, with one distinct variation standing out: tequila takes the place of vodka in the former cocktail. While some recipes may diverge slightly, the overall composition remains largely identical, save for this substitution, which lends a distinctly Mexican twist to the drink.
Smoky Basil Oaxacan Mezcal Cocktail
Elevate your cocktail game with this deliciously smoky, herby, salty, and refreshing drink, perfect for those who adore a hint of herbs and lime. With only 5 to 10 minutes required to prepare it, this recipe is as quick as it is easy, boasting an incredibly short ingredient list that includes Mezcal, lime wedges, basil leaves, lime juice, agave syrup, ice, and the subtle yet savory touch of bacon salt for the rim.
In contrast to overly sweet concoctions, this Oaxaca Mezcal cocktail takes a more balanced approach, reminiscent of a mojito but with its own unique twist that sets it apart. While some might say it’s an acquired taste, those who appreciate herbs and lime will find themselves drawn to the smoky basil flavors, making it an excellent choice for adventurous drinkers.
So go ahead and give this recipe a try – we dare you to say ‘smoky basil Oaxaca Mezcal cocktail’ three times fast without cracking a smile!
17 Traditional Mexican Drinks
Not only are there other traditional Mexican drinks that outshine the classic margarita, but they also offer a refreshing escape from the ordinary. From the fruity flavors of agua frescas to the smoky essence of mezcalita and rich indulgence of hot chocolate, these authentic beverages will transport you to the vibrant heart of Mexico.
Instructions
Rely on a tried-and-true recipe that you’ve mastered to avoid last-minute complications. Round up all the necessary ingredients, taking care to check their freshness and quantity. Rushing is not an option when preparing a refreshing Mexican drink in under 30 minutes!
