Spicy Watermelon Tequila Smash Recipe

Learn how to make this homemade Spicy Watermelon Tequila Smash – the best summer cocktail that balances sweet watermelon, premium silver tequila, and spicy jalapeño kick. This easy craft cocktail recipe uses fresh ingredients and simple muddling technique for a refreshing drink that's perfect for hot days.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

5 mins

Cook Time:

Serves:

1 cocktail

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml silver tequila (blanco tequila)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml fresh lime juice</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml agave syrup</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">120g fresh watermelon chunks</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">3-4 fresh mint leaves</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">½ jalapeño, sliced (seeds removed for less heat)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml soda water</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Tajin or chili salt for rim (optional)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Watermelon wedge and jalapeño slice for garnish</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 slice

🔥 Calories: 320 calories

🥑 Fat: 24 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 14 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 18 g

🍭 Sugar: 2 g

🍗 Protein: 10 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 165 mg

🧂 Sodium: 380 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Muddler</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Cocktail shaker</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Hawthorne strainer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Collins or highball glass</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>If using, prepare your glass by running a lime wedge around the rim and dipping in Tajin or chili salt. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a cocktail shaker, add the watermelon chunks, 1-2 slices of jalapeño (adjust based on your heat preference), and mint leaves. Muddle thoroughly until the watermelon releases its juice and the jalapeño and mint oils are extracted – about 30 seconds of firm pressure. The mixture should be visibly juicy with small watermelon chunks.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Add the tequila, fresh lime juice, and agave syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to properly chill, dilute and incorporate the jalapeño's heat throughout the mixture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Strain the mixture into your prepared glass over fresh ice. The fine straining helps remove watermelon pulp and jalapeño seeds while allowing the flavored liquid to pass through.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Top with soda water and gently stir with a bar spoon to integrate without losing carbonation. The soda adds effervescence that brightens the watermelon flavor while tempering the heat.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Garnish with a watermelon wedge and a thin jalapeño slice (carefully placed for visual appeal). The aromatics from these garnishes will enhance your experience with each sip.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Spicy Watermelon Tequila Smash?

This refreshing cocktail requires silver tequila, fresh lime juice, agave syrup, watermelon chunks, mint leaves, jalapeño slices, soda water, and optional Tajin or chili salt for the rim. Garnish with a watermelon wedge and jalapeño slice for the complete experience.

How to make Spicy Watermelon Tequila Smash at home?

Learn how to make Spicy Watermelon Tequila Smash by muddling fresh watermelon chunks with jalapeño slices and mint leaves, then adding silver tequila, lime juice and agave syrup. Shake vigorously with ice, strain into a glass rimmed with Tajin, add fresh ice, top with soda water, and garnish with watermelon and jalapeño for a refreshing summer cocktail.

Can I make this watermelon cocktail without alcohol for a mocktail version?

Absolutely! Replace the tequila with additional soda water or sparkling water. For more depth, add 15ml of non-alcoholic spirit or 30ml of coconut water. You'll still enjoy the delicious combination of sweet watermelon and spicy jalapeño in a refreshing alcohol-free beverage.

How can I adjust the spice level of this tequila watermelon drink?

Control the heat by adjusting the jalapeño quantity and preparation. For milder spice, remove all seeds and use just one thin slice. For maximum heat, include seeds and muddle 3-4 thick slices. You can also infuse the tequila with jalapeño beforehand for consistent spiciness.

What's the best type of tequila to use in a watermelon cocktail?

Silver (blanco) tequila works best as its clean, agave-forward profile complements watermelon's subtle sweetness without overwhelming it. Look for 100% agave tequila for the smoothest results. Reposado can add complexity with vanilla notes, but avoid añejo as its oak flavours clash with fresh fruit.

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