These margarita floats are incredibly refreshing and perfect for summer. Served on the rocks with a scoop of sorbet or sherbet, they deliver icy, bright flavor—especially with a chili-lime rim for extra kick.
Make these margarita floats your go-to summer cocktail.
Get ready for happy hour—these are outstanding.
Frosty margaritas rimmed with chili-lime seasoning, topped with a floating scoop of sherbet or sorbet that slowly melts into the drink, creating a slightly creamy, summery flavor that’s irresistible. They’re fun, festive, and taste like summer in a glass.
YES.
Sherbet isn’t always my first dessert choice—I’m usually drawn to richer ice creams and chocolate—but for a margarita float it’s a perfect fit. The bright fruit flavors balance the tequila and citrus beautifully.
When I imagined an icy margarita float, a rainbow-style orange/lemon/lime sherbet was the obvious choice. It pairs so well with classic margarita flavors. Use any sherbet or sorbet you like—lime or lemon sorbet would be excellent if you can find it.
Margaritas are one of my favorite cocktails. My at-home classic is mostly lime with a splash of orange liqueur for depth. The combination of citrus, ice and a salted rim makes for the perfect drink—these floats keep that classic base while adding a creamy, fruity finish.
Not too sweet, not too tart—simply delightful.
The orange/lemon/lime sherbet complements those margarita flavors perfectly. If I had to pick one flavor, lime or lemon sorbet would be my top choice. But any citrus-forward sorbet or sherbet will work—drop a scoop right into the cocktail.
For a little heat and extra flavor I like rimming the glass with Tajin, a chili-lime seasoning. Regular margarita salt or a specialty salt also work well—use whatever suits your mood.
These are unbelievably delicious. They’re a playful twist on a classic margarita—familiar but elevated. The sherbet melt adds creaminess without overpowering the cocktail, so the drink still feels like a margarita, just more festive.
Who could resist this?
Margarita Floats
Margarita Floats
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Ingredients
- Tajin or margarita salt for the rim
- lime wedges
- crushed ice
- 4 ounces tequila (blanco recommended)
- 4 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
- 3 ounces simple syrup
- 2 ounces Grand Marnier or another orange liqueur
- 2 to 4 scoops lemon, lime or orange sherbet/sorbet (or a citrus swirl)
Instructions
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Rub a lime wedge around the rim of two glasses, then dip the rims into Tajin or margarita salt. Fill each glass with crushed ice.
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Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add tequila, lime juice, simple syrup and Grand Marnier. Shake about 30 seconds until frothy. Strain and pour evenly into the prepared glasses, then add one or two scoops of sherbet or sorbet to each glass. Serve immediately.
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Dreamy!