Classic El Diablo Cocktail with Tequila

The Classic El Diablo Cocktail is a bold and refreshing drink that blends the warmth of tequila with the spicy-sweet tang of ginger beer and crème de cassis. With its rich ruby color and bright lime finish, this cocktail is a vibrant mix of smoky, spicy, sweet, and tart—perfect for tequila lovers looking for something a little different.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unexpected Flavor Combo: Tequila, blackcurrant liqueur, and ginger beer create a beautifully layered taste.
• Easy to Mix: Just a few ingredients and no shaking required.
• Visually Striking: The deep red hue and fizzy top make this drink as pretty as it is delicious.
• Perfect for Any Season: Refreshing in summer, warming in winter thanks to the ginger.
• A Tequila Twist on a Classic Mule: Like a Moscow Mule’s bolder, fruitier cousin.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 oz blanco or reposado tequila
• ½ oz crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur)
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• 3–4 oz ginger beer (to top)
• Ice

Optional Garnish:

• Lime wedge or wheel
• Fresh blackberries or candied ginger

Directions

1. Fill the Glass: Add ice to a highball or Collins glass.
2. Add the Base: Pour in the tequila, lime juice, and crème de cassis.
3. Top and Stir: Add ginger beer until the glass is full. Stir gently to combine.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a lime wheel or fresh berries and enjoy immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1 cocktail
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Diablo: Use spicy ginger beer or add a slice of jalapeño for a fiery kick.
• Frozen El Diablo: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy version.
• Mezcal Diablo: Swap tequila for mezcal for a smoky variation.
• Berry Twist: Add muddled raspberries or blackberries for a fruitier flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Best served fresh. You can pre-mix tequila, lime juice, and crème de cassis and chill. Add ginger beer just before serving.
• Reheating: Not applicable.

FAQs

What is crème de cassis?

Crème de cassis is a sweet, dark liqueur made from blackcurrants. It adds deep berry flavor and color to cocktails.

Can I use ginger ale instead of ginger beer?

Ginger ale is milder and sweeter, but it can be used. For a spicier, more flavorful drink, stick with ginger beer.

What kind of tequila works best?

Blanco tequila is clean and crisp, while reposado adds a touch of oak and richness. Both work well depending on your preference.

Is El Diablo a strong drink?

It’s balanced—tequila-forward but mellowed by the sweetness of cassis and the fizz of ginger beer.

Can I make a batch for a party?

Yes! Multiply the ingredients (except the ginger beer) and mix in a pitcher. Top with ginger beer in individual glasses.

Can I make it sweeter?

Add a splash of simple syrup or use a sweeter ginger beer if needed.

What glass should I use?

A highball or Collins glass works best to accommodate the ice and ginger beer.

Do I need to shake this drink?

No shaking needed—just build over ice and stir.

Can I make it non-alcoholic?

Yes! Use blackcurrant syrup instead of crème de cassis and omit tequila. Add a splash of lime juice and top with ginger beer.

What food pairs well with El Diablo?

It goes great with grilled meats, tacos, spicy dishes, or even chocolate desserts thanks to its fruity depth.

Conclusion

The Classic El Diablo Cocktail is a unique and flavorful tequila drink that stands out from the usual margarita lineup. With its bold mix of tequila, cassis, lime, and ginger beer, it’s both refreshing and complex. Whether you’re sipping it solo or serving it at your next gathering, El Diablo is sure to charm with every fiery, fizzy sip.

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