Spicy Paloma Cocktail

Picture this: it’s a sunny afternoon, and you’re craving something refreshing yet adventurous.

Enter the Spicy Paloma, the bold cousin of the classic Paloma.

This cocktail marries the tangy sweetness of grapefruit with a fiery jalapeño kick that keeps your taste buds guessing.

It’s the perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy—a trifecta that feels like a mini-vacation in every sip.

Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, enjoying taco night, or simply need a pick-me-up after a long day, this cocktail delivers. I love it because it’s fun, vibrant, and endlessly customizable.

Plus, it never fails to impress guests (and their Instagram feeds!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather the essentials – here’s what you’ll need for one perfectly balanced Spicy Paloma:

• 2 oz tequila blanco
• 2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
• 1 oz lime juice (about 1 lime)
• ½ oz agave syrup (or simple syrup)
• 2 oz club soda
• 1-2 slices of fresh jalapeño
• Salt for rimming the glass (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Grapefruit wedge or jalapeño slice for garnish

Breaking Down the Ingredients

Tequila Blanco:
The heart of the Paloma. A smooth, high-quality blanco tequila is ideal for this recipe because it blends beautifully with the citrus flavors without overpowering them. Look for 100% agave tequila for the best results.

Freshly Squeezed Grapefruit Juice:
Store-bought juice can work in a pinch, but fresh grapefruit juice is a game-changer. It’s brighter, zestier, and gives your cocktail that fresh-from-the-fruit taste.

Lime Juice:
Lime juice adds that extra zing to balance the sweetness of the grapefruit and agave. Freshly squeezed is always best—trust me, bottled lime juice just doesn’t cut it.

Agave Syrup:
A natural sweetener that complements the tequila without being overly sugary. If you don’t have agave syrup, a quick homemade simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) will do the trick.

Club Soda:
For that essential fizzy finish. Club soda lightens the drink and makes it oh-so-refreshing.

Fresh Jalapeño:
The star of the show! A slice or two of jalapeño infuses the drink with just the right amount of heat. Feel free to adjust the spiciness to your liking.

Salt (Optional):
A salted rim adds a savory edge and enhances the cocktail’s flavors. Try using a chili-salt blend for an extra kick.

Ice and Garnishes:
Ice keeps the drink cool and crisp, while a garnish of grapefruit or jalapeño adds visual flair.

How to Make the Perfect Spicy Paloma

Step 1: Prepare Your Glass

Start by rimming your glass with salt for that extra flavor boost. To do this, rub a lime wedge along the rim of the glass, then dip it into a plate of salt (or chili-salt blend). Set the glass aside.

Pro Tip: Use a tall glass like a Collins glass to show off the layers of your cocktail.

Step 2: Muddle the Jalapeño

In a cocktail shaker, add 1-2 slices of fresh jalapeño (start with one slice if you’re spice-cautious). Muddle gently to release the spicy oils. Be careful not to overdo it unless you’re ready for a fiery kick!

Helpful Tip: If you’re making this for a crowd, muddle the jalapeño in advance and strain the mixture to avoid surprises in the spice level.

Step 3: Build the Cocktail

Add the following ingredients to the shaker with the muddled jalapeño:

• 2 oz tequila blanco
• 2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
• 1 oz lime juice
• ½ oz agave syrup

Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This helps chill and mix the ingredients thoroughly.

Pro Tip: If you like your Paloma extra smooth, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any jalapeño seeds or pulp.

Step 4: Assemble the Drink

Fill your prepared glass with ice, then pour the shaken mixture over the top. Top it off with 2 oz of club soda for that refreshing fizz. Stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Add the finishing touches—a grapefruit wedge, a slice of jalapeño, or both—and serve immediately.

Pro Tip: For a smoky twist, lightly char the jalapeño slice before using it as a garnish.

Tips for Success

• Adjust the Heat: Not a fan of spicy cocktails? Use just half a slice of jalapeño or skip the muddling step entirely. Love the heat? Add an extra slice or let the jalapeño sit in the drink longer for a spicier infusion.
• Batch It for Parties: Multiply the recipe for a crowd and mix the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup in a large pitcher. Add club soda and ice just before serving.
• Experiment with Flavors: Swap the club soda for grapefruit soda for a sweeter drink or use mezcal instead of tequila for a smoky vibe.

Spicy Paloma Cocktail Recipe

Pin this post for later!