Vampiros Mexicanos

If you’re looking for the perfect Halloween drink that’s bold, fiery, and unmistakably Mexican, let us introduce you to Vampiros Mexicanos. This Mexican vampire cocktail isn’t just a party drink—it’s a whole mood. It’s a spicy, savory, and citrusy concoction that’s wildly popular in Mexican cantinas, beach bars, and backyard get-togethers. But come Halloween or Día de los Muertos, Vampiros Mexicanos really take the spotlight.

This tequila and sangrita mix is often referred to as the lovechild of a Bloody Mary and a margarita—with a kick of jalapeño, a splash of Clamato or tomato juice, and a squeeze of lime to bring it all together.

Whether you’re planning a themed gathering, chilling on the patio, or just feel like mixing up your usual drink game, Vampiros Mexicanos are the kind of cocktail that hits hard in the best way possible.

this recipe

The Origin of Vampiros Mexicanos: Where Heat Meets Heritage

The story of Vampiros Mexicanos begins on the streets of Jalisco, the birthplace of tequila itself. Legend has it that locals mixed leftover sangrita with tequila and hot sauce during backyard cookouts. The name? A cheeky nod to the deep red color and the bite you feel after your first sip.

Unlike fancy cocktails with 10-step prep, Vampiros Mexicanos keep it real with simple ingredients and big flavor. It’s a traditional Mexican drink with deep roots in Mexican culture but a flair that fits any wild celebration.

This cocktail has slowly made its way into mainstream bars across Mexico and beyond, especially during fall festivities. It’s a staple at Día de los Muertos celebrations and Halloween parties, and now it’s ready to claim a spot in your drink lineup.

Key Ingredients in a Vampiros Mexicanos Cocktail

Let’s break down what makes this spicy Mexican beverage tick.

1. Tequila
Start with a quality blanco or reposado. The smoothness of tequila anchors the drink and complements the acidity of the sangrita.

2. Sangrita
Not to be confused with sangria, sangrita is a spicy, citrusy tomato-based mixer that’s traditionally served as a chaser for tequila—but here, it’s a co-star. We’ll show you how to make your own sangrita in the next section.

3. Clamato or Tomato Juice
Adds umami and depth. Some versions go all in on tomato, others use a Clamato-style blend for extra savoriness.

4. Lime Juice
Fresh is best. It brightens everything and ties all the flavors together.

5. Hot Sauce or Fresh Chili
This is where the heat comes in. Whether you use a dash of your favorite hot sauce or muddle a jalapeño slice, you’re in control of the burn.

6. Tajín or Salt Rim
Rim your glass with lime and dip it in Tajín or coarse salt. It’s not optional—it’s essential.

These ingredients come together to create a citrus and spice drink that’s bold, briny, and deliciously aggressive—in the best way.

How to Make Vampiros Mexicanos (Step-by-Step Recipe)

Making Vampiros Mexicanos is easier than you might think. Here’s how to throw one together like you’ve been bartending in a beachside Mexican bar for years.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila (blanco or reposado)
• 3 oz sangrita (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 oz Clamato or tomato juice
• Juice of 1 lime
• A few dashes of hot sauce or 2 jalapeño slices
• Tajín or salt, for the rim
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Rim the glass. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. Dip into Tajín or salt until well coated. Set aside.
2. Mix it up. In a shaker or mixing glass, combine tequila, sangrita, Clamato, lime juice, and hot sauce (or chili slices).
3. Shake or stir. Add ice and give it a good shake (or stir if you’re feeling lazy—it’s okay, we’ve all been there).
4. Serve. Strain into your rimmed glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lime wedge or jalapeño ring if you’re fancy.

And there you go—you’ve made Vampiros Mexicanos, one of the boldest Mexican cocktails you’ll ever sip.

Homemade Sangrita Recipe (Because Store-Bought Ain’t the Same)

Sure, you can grab a bottle of sangrita at the store. But if you want that authentic, spicy-tangy punch that defines traditional Mexican drinks, here’s how to make it at home.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup tomato juice or Clamato
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
• ½ tsp hot sauce
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of chili powder or cayenne
• Optional: a splash of grenadine for sweetness

Instructions:

1. Stir all ingredients together in a small pitcher or jar.
2. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness.
3. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before using.

You’ve just made your own sangrita cocktail mix—fresh, spicy, and better than anything off the shelf.

Related recipes

Bold drinks need bold food. Here’s how to build your perfect Mexican feast around your cocktail:

• Pair your Vampiros Mexicanos with this vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad.
• Serve alongside Crock Pot Birria Tacos for a full-flavored Mexican evening.
• Try it with Elote Pasta Salad for a fusion twist.
• Balance the cocktail’s spice with this creamy Mexican street corn pasta salad.
• Complete your Mexican feast with this chicken bowl recipe.
• Perfect pairing: Vegetarian Fajita Cornbread Casserole and Vampiros Mexicanos.
• End your night with Churro Cheesecake Bars after a glass of Vampiros Mexicanos.

Whether it’s street corn or cornbread casserole, Vampiros Mexicanos are incredibly versatile.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 143
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 622mg (27% DV)
• Carbohydrates: 11g (4% DV)
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 1g
• Vitamin C: 6mg (7% DV)
• Calcium, Iron, Potassium: Trace amounts

Based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutritional content may vary depending on the brand of ingredients used.

Notes & Disclaimers

• This drink contains alcohol. Please enjoy responsibly and serve only to individuals 21 and older.
• Percent daily values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
• Always adjust recipes to your dietary needs and spice tolerance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Vampiros Mexicanos

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jake
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 cocktail

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A fiery, citrusy, tequila-based Mexican cocktail perfect for Halloween and Día de los Muertos.

---

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 oz tequila (blanco or reposado)
• 3 oz sangrita (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 oz Clamato or tomato juice
• Juice of 1 lime
• A few dashes of hot sauce or 2 jalapeño slices
• Tajín or salt, for the rim
• Ice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip into Tajín or salt to coat.
2. In a shaker or mixing glass, combine tequila, sangrita, Clamato, lime juice, and hot sauce (or jalapeño slices).
3. Add ice and shake well (or stir if preferred).
4. Strain into the prepared glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge or jalapeño ring if desired.

Equipment

glass

Buy Now →

Notes

Adjust spice level to taste. Best served fresh and cold. Great for parties or Mexican-themed nights.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Cocktail
• Method: Shaken
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cocktail
• Calories: 143
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 622mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Final thoughts

Vampiros Mexicanos aren’t just cocktails—they’re conversation starters. They’re the spicy, smoky, citrusy centerpiece of any Halloween or Mexican-themed party. Whether you’re cooking up a storm, hosting friends, or just want to try something wildly delicious, this tequila-based cocktail is your new go-to.

Try it once, and you’ll never go back to boring drinks again.

Looking for more ways to spice up your nights? Keep exploring VirileRecipes.com for more cocktail ideas, street food favorites, and flavor-packed dishes from all over Mexico.

Follow us for more drool-worthy comfort food on Pinterest and join the conversation on Facebook.