Why This Works
This works because apple cider and lime are a genuinely great acid pairing — the cider brings soft, rounded orchard sweetness and the lime cuts straight through it. The classic margarita structure is intact; only the accent has changed seasons.
The cinnamon-sugar rim replaces salt for a reason: salt sharpens citrus, but cinnamon bridges. Every sip over that rim connects the tequila's earthiness to the cider's baked-apple warmth. Batch it in a pitcher — this is a gathering drink, and it holds beautifully in the fridge.
The Alcohol-Free Swap
Alcohol-free tequila's agave earthiness keeps the cider grounded — without it, this would drift into juice territory.