Pina-Naranja Margarita

prepared by and photo by Emily S. Downs

Sunshine in a pitcher. No matter what the forecast says… rain, snow, hail… sunny pineapple-orange margaritas brighten up anyones spirits!

Size: 8 servings

Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups pineapple juice
1 1/4 cups white tequila
1 cup Cointreau or other orange liqueur
1 cup fresh orange juice
3/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/2 cup Simple Syrup (see recipe below... need sugar and water)
3 cups ice cubes
Fresh pineapple spears and Maraschino cherries (optional)

Directions:

SIMPLE SYRUP: Stir 3 cups water and 1 1/2 cups sugar in heavy medium saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat and boil 2 minutes. Refrigerate syrup until cold, about 3 hours. (Can be prepared 1 week ahead. Cover and keep refrigerated.)

MARGARITAS: Combine pineapple juice, tequila, Cointreau, orange juice, lime juice and Simple Syrup in large pitcher. (Can be prepared 6 hours ahead. Refrigerate.)

Add 3 cups ice cubes to pitcher and stir to blend well. Pour Margarita into cocktail glasses. Garnish with pineapple spears and maraschino cherries, if desired, and serve.

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