Sparkling Mango Cocktail

Transport yourself to sun-soaked Mexico with this sparkling mango cocktail inspired by the iconic Hotel California in Todos Santos.

With sweet mango, smooth tequila, and zesty white lemonade, it’s the ultimate summer escape in a glass!

Why You’ll Love This Sparkling Mango Drink

I was inspired to make this mango cocktail following a weekend at Hotel California in Mexico.  

While a classic lime margarita might be the perfect beach cocktail when you’re at a tropical beach resort on Mexico’s Pacific coast,  a golden-hued mango cocktail is the perfect drink of choice in the desert of Baja California.

• Simple to prepare-no cocktail shaker required.
• It’s got pure and simple natural ingredients without complicated infusions or syrups.
• You likely have everything you need on hand to make this mango cocktail! No need to scour the store for exotic ingredients!
• It’s deliciously frozen, slightly sweet and tart, but with a touch of heat thanks to the chile salt.
• The pretty golden hue makes it perfect for Cinco de Mayo, a summer pool party or other fun celebration.
• In summer, I enjoy serving it along with other tropical boating drinks  such as a Spanish Gin & Tonic, Apple Cider Mojitos and Sparkling Watermelon Mint Cocktail.
• Pairs well with summer appetizers and snacks.

Step by Step Instructions

Scroll down to the recipe card for exact quantities and method.  

If you’d like to channel the spirit of the Baja at home, you’ve got to try this copycat version of the original.

With just 3 ingredients, it’s the ultimate summer cocktail for easy entertaining!

1. The key is to begin with fresh mangoes. You can use any kind of mango but for the most brilliant orange colour similar to the Hotel California cocktail, opt for the Haden, Francis and Tommy Atkin variety.

2. Cut the mango cheeks from the pit and then cut the flesh into small chunks, from the peel.

3. Once you’ve got the mango peeled and chopped, simply place it in a blender with the lemonade, tequila and ice.

4. Blend at low and then high speed for 60 seconds until the ice is pulverized into tiny pieces. The mixture should be smooth and frosty.

5. Next, run a cut piece of lime around the rim of the cocktail glass. Then, dip the rim of a cocktail glass in chili lime salt.

You can use either store-bought cocktail salt or scroll down to see our recipe for homemade chili lime salt below.

6. Pour the blended mango cocktail mixture into the glass.

7. Garnish with a wedge of lime and serve!

How to Make Chili Lime Salt at Home

To make a sparkling mango cocktail like they do at Hotel California, you’ve got to salt the rim of your glass with chili lime salt! No need to buy a margarita cocktail kit for this. 

It’s super easy to make at home!

Not only is this homemade cocktail salt delicious but it contains no artificial ingredients or additives.

You’ll need:

Mexican sea salt

lime zest

chili powder

1. Combine the Mexican sea salt, chili powder and lime zest in a bowl. Spread it out on a small plate.

2. Moisten the rim of the cocktail glass by running a cut wedge of lime around the top.

3. Invert the glass and dip it into the chili salt mixture, twisting it lightly until it’s coated.

4. Pour the mango mixture into the glass and garnish with a wedge of lime.

Variations and Expert Tips

• While at its most delicious when made with white tequila, you can also use mezcal, vodka or the brilliant yellow Damiana liqueur that’s popular throughout Baja California.
• If it’s your first time making a mango recipe, you might want to wear gloves. Some people are allergic to mangoes. It’s the skin of the mango that contains the majority of the chemical compound urushiol. Found in poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac and cashew nutshells, this oily resin can often cause contact dermatitis.
• Or, skip the alcohol and enjoy it like a summertime smoothie.
• Got leftover mangoes, use them up in these recipes for Easy Mango and Black Bean Salsa, Mango Smoothie Pie  and Mango and Strawberry Lemonade. 

Try This Recipe at Source

Los Cabos Mexico is home to lots of fantastic dining experiences. Just check out this recipe for Cream of Sardine With Smoked Salmon  from Gastro Bar by Martin Berasategui, the acclaimed Basque chef who helms dining at Paradisus Los Cabos.

There are so many ecotours in Cabo San Lucas I can’t wait to return. For a stress-free vacation, get travel tips and learn more about Los Cabos airport transportation. 

Love Mangoes? Check Out These Other Popular Mango Recipes

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