Classic Tequila Daisy Recipe

If you love margaritas and tequila cocktails, you are going to absolutely love this tequila daisy recipe. Think of it as the sophisticated, martini-style cousin of a classic margarita — same bright, citrusy flavor, just shaken and strained into a gorgeous cocktail glass. It's so easy to make, and once you try it, it'll be on repeat.

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You'll love this tequila daisy recipe

It's easy to make. With a few simple ingredients, this zesty cocktail can be made in no time. No bartending skills required!

It's simple and delicious. Whether you're hunting for Cinco de Mayo drink recipes, a tequila cocktail for a hot summer day, or just something a little different for girls' night, this one delivers every time.
It can be made into a batched cocktail. Because the only thing added at serving time is a splash of club soda, this tequila daisy is incredibly easy to batch for a party. Make a big pitcher ahead of time and you're set.

Ingredients

Tequila. I use blanco tequila for this recipe. It's the most approachable style of tequila and works beautifully as a base for mixed drinks, clean, bright, and not overpowering.

Grand Marnier. This French orange liqueur gives the tequila daisy its signature sweetness and depth. No Grand Marnier on hand? Triple sec works great as a substitute.

Lemon Juice. Fresh citrus juice is what makes this cocktail sing. Lemon juice brings a sweet-tart zing that plays perfectly against the orange liqueur and the bite of tequila.

Simple Syrup. Just a touch of simple syrup balances out the tartness of the lemon juice without making the drink overly sweet. Want to keep it more traditional? Swap in agave nectar for a true tequila cocktail vibe.

Club Soda. Just for a little finish, top your prepared drink with a splash of club soda! 

How to make this tequila daisy recipe

1. In a cocktail shaker, add 2 oz tequila, ½ oz Grand Marnier, ½ oz lemon juice, and ½ oz simple syrup. 
2. Add ice and shake until chilled.
3. Strain into a cocktail glass, top with a splash of soda water, and enjoy!

Why is it called a tequila daisy?

The tequila daisy cocktail has a fun origin story! It was reportedly created by accident by a man named Madden, who reached for the wrong bottle and grabbed tequila instead of his intended spirit. The result was so good that it stuck. Here's a fun fact: "Daisy" is the English translation of margarita in Spanish, which explains why the tequila daisy and the margarita taste like close relatives.

Substitution and variations

Tequila. Reposado or añejo tequila both work well here if you want a richer, oakier flavor profile from the aging process.

Club Soda. You can also use flavored sparkling water, like lime or lemon, to add a little extra flavor burst. 

Fresh Citrus Juice. No lemons? Fresh lime juice is the most classic swap, but fresh grapefruit juice or orange juice also work beautifully.

Garnish ideas

• Salt Rim
• Sugar Rim
• Sprig of Mint
• Lime Wheel
• Dehydrated Citrus Slice

Making this tequila daisy recipe for a crowd

This is one of my favorite easy batched cocktail recipes because the prep is so hands-off. Mix everything ahead, set out a bottle of club soda on the side so guests can add their own fizz at pour time! That way it stays fresh and bubbly. Here's how to batch for 10 servings:

1. In a large pitcher, combine 2½ cups blanco tequila, 5 oz triple sec (or Grand Marnier), 5 oz fresh citrus juice, and 5 oz simple syrup. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. When serving, pour 3.5 oz into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a martini glass. Top with a splash of club soda and cheers!

FAQs

What is the difference between a margarita and a tequila daisy?

A classic margarita is typically served on the rocks in a salt-rimmed glass. A tequila daisy is essentially a shaken, strained version, served up in a martini glass, making it feel a little more elegant while keeping all that same bright tequila-citrus flavor.

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