Let’s be honest—Long Island Iced Tea has a bit of a wild reputation. It’s strong, it’s bold, and it doesn’t hold back. But when made right, it’s also refreshingly delicious and surprisingly smooth. Whether you’re prepping for a summer BBQ, a casual weekend hangout, or just want to shake things up at home, this cocktail has your back.
So, What Is a Long Island Iced Tea?
Despite the name, there’s actually no tea in it! The “iced tea” look comes from the splash of cola at the end, which gives the drink its signature color. What makes this cocktail stand out is its mix of five different spirits—yes, five—and how they blend so well, you can barely taste the alcohol (dangerous, I know!).
🍋 Ingredients You’ll Need:
Here’s what you’ll want to gather for one classic Long Island Iced Tea:
- ½ oz vodka
- ½ oz white rum
- ½ oz gin
- ½ oz tequila (silver/blanco is best)
- ½ oz triple sec (or any orange liqueur like Cointreau)
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- ¾ oz simple syrup (or adjust to your sweetness level)
- Splash of cola (for that “tea” look)
- Ice
- Lemon wedge (for garnish)
🥄 Instructions: Mix It Like a Pro
- Fill a shaker with ice (or use a large glass if you don’t have one).
- Pour in the vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake it well for about 10–15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a tall glass (like a highball) filled with fresh ice.
- Add a splash of cola on top. Just enough to get that amber “tea” color.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge or even a mint sprig if you’re feeling fancy.
🍹 Tips for a Great Long Island Iced Tea:
- Use fresh lemon juice. It really brightens up the drink compared to bottled.
- Go easy on the cola. You want a splash, not a soda bath!
- Don’t cheap out on your spirits. Mid-range bottles work best—you’ll taste the difference.
- Want to switch it up? Try a Long Beach Iced Tea—just swap cola with cranberry juice.
Final Sip: Treat It with Respect 😉
Long Island Iced Tea isn’t your average cocktail—it’s a boozy beast in disguise, so sip responsibly. It’s perfect for parties, but also hits the spot on a quiet evening when you want something bold.
Give it a try, and let me know how your version turns out. Cheers to a classic!