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The Long Island Iced Tea is my pick for when I want a festive cocktail that is refreshing, a little bit tropical, and packs more punch than most mixed drinks. Its tea-colored fizz is purely from cola, and the blend of five spirits creates a layered flavor you simply cannot fake with any shortcut blend. This recipe delivers all the fun of a night out right at home and really does let you show off your home bar in the best way.
I made this during a rainy Saturday afternoon with friends and was amazed at how quickly the pitcher disappeared. Now it is always on request for any game night at home because everyone loves how it looks like a classic iced tea but has a definite grown-up twist.
Ingredients
- Vodka: look for a clean filtered vodka with minimal odor so the spirits blend smoothly
- Gin: London Dry types add bracing freshness but any style works if that is what you have
- Tequila: Silver or blanco for crispness avoid mezcal to keep the cocktail from going smoky
- White Rum: Choose a clear style for subtle vanilla and banana notes avoid coconut-infused rums unless you want a sweeter drink
- Triple Sec: A sharp orange liqueur use high-quality types such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier for depth
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze your own lemons to bring a bright acidity that lifts the whole drink and grab an extra for garnishing
- Cola: Any classic cola provides caramel color and a gentle fizz pick your favorite brand for the best finish
- Ice Cubes: Use filtered water for your ice to keep flavors tasting vivid to the end
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine the Spirits:
- In a cocktail shaker add vodka gin tequila white rum and triple sec together with fresh lemon juice. Be precise with your measures because too much of any single spirit will topple the balance.
- Fill with Ice:
- Add enough ice cubes to fill the shaker about halfway. This chills the mix rapidly and creates a gentle dilution that helps marry the flavors.
- Shake Well:
- Seal the shaker and shake firmly for at least fifteen seconds. The longer chill ensures the spirits are blended and cold making the cocktail smooth.
- Strain Over Fresh Ice:
- Place fresh ice cubes in a tall highball glass. Set a strainer over your shaker and pour the cold cocktail base into the glass taking care not to overfill.
- Add Cola:
- Slowly top the glass with your chosen cola allowing it to mingle gently with the base and provide that signature iced tea color.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Slice a fresh lemon wedge and perch it on the rim of the glass. Add a straw if desired and serve immediately so the fizz remains lively.
My favorite part is always adding the fresh lemon juice The aroma as it hits the spirits is the signal that the drink is going to come alive. My husband once mixed the drink for my birthday and forgot the lemon and we both learned lemon is what makes magic here.
Storage Tips
While this cocktail is best freshly mixed you can batch the spirits and lemon juice up to a day in advance in the fridge just add ice and cola right before serving This makes it perfect for parties since you only have to shake and pour when guests arrive
Ingredient Substitutions
If you lack a liqueur like triple sec swap in an equal measure of orange juice or sour mix Not a fan of tequila You can skip it and add a touch more rum or vodka without losing the charm If cola is not your favorite try ginger ale for a spicy refreshing twist
Serving Suggestions
Serve in a tall glass with a bold lemon wedge and a straw for classic style You can also pre-mix in a pitcher for a group just pour over individual glasses of ice and top each with a splash of cola or try tiny cocktail umbrellas for an extra party mood
Cultural and Historical Context
Despite its name there is no tea in this drink It was first mixed in Long Island New York in the early 1970s and remains one of the United States most famous bar cocktails The drink’s look and strength have made it a favorite of generations
Common Recipe Questions
- → Why does Long Island Iced Tea look like tea?
The combination of cola and citrus creates a pale amber hue closely resembling iced tea, even though no tea is included.
- → What spirits are needed for Long Island Iced Tea?
You'll need vodka, gin, tequila, white rum, and triple sec to craft a traditional Long Island Iced Tea.
- → Can I substitute cola with another mixer?
Yes! Try ginger ale for a spicier twist or use lemon-lime soda for a brighter, less robust finish.
- → Is it a strong cocktail?
Absolutely. A classic Long Island Iced Tea features several spirits, making it stronger than most highball options.
- → What's the best garnish for this drink?
A wedge of fresh lemon is classic. It boosts the citrus aroma and adds vibrant color to your glass.
- → Do I need specialty equipment to prepare it?
A basic cocktail shaker and strainer are ideal but not required—stirring over ice works in a pinch.