long island iced tea recipe
The Best long island iced tea recipe
One of the best things about Long Island Iced Tea is that it’s not just delicious; it’s also a great way to use up ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The mix of citrus juices gives it a bright, tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness, and the tea base makes it feel a little lighter than other cocktails. I’ve even tweaked the recipe over the years to make it a little healthier by cutting back on the sugar and using fresh-squeezed juices instead of store-bought mixes. It’s a drink that feels indulgent but doesn’t leave you feeling weighed down, which is why it’s become a staple in our house. Whether we’re celebrating a birthday or just enjoying a slow weekend, this recipe always hits the spot.
Classic Long Island Iced Tea
A potent and refreshing cocktail that combines multiple spirits with a touch of cola and citrus. Perfect for parties or a fun night in, this drink packs a punch while tasting like a sweet iced tea.
🥘Ingredients
- ½ oz (15 ml) vodka
- ½ oz (15 ml) white rum
- ½ oz (15 ml) gin
- ½ oz (15 ml) tequila
- ½ oz (15 ml) triple sec
- ¾ oz (22 ml) fresh lemon juice
- ¾ oz (22 ml) simple syrup
- 1 oz (30 ml) cola (for color and fizz)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon wedge (for garnish)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. -
2
Add vodka, white rum, gin, tequila, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. -
3
Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until well-chilled. -
4
Fill a highball glass with fresh ice. -
5
Strain the cocktail mixture into the glass over the ice. -
6
Top off with a splash of cola for color and fizz. -
7
Gently stir with a bar spoon to combine. -
8
Garnish with a lemon wedge and serve immediately.
🔧Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Highball glass
- Bar spoon or stirrer
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Long Island Iced Tea Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Long Island Iced Tea
1. What alcohol goes into a Long Island Iced Tea?
A Long Island Iced Tea typically includes five types of alcohol: vodka, white rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec. Some variations may also include a splash of cola for color and sweetness, along with sour mix and a lemon wedge for garnish.
2. Why is it called a Long Island Iced Tea if it doesn’t contain tea?
Despite its name, the Long Island Iced Tea doesn’t actually contain tea. The name comes from its appearance—it resembles iced tea due to its amber color (from the cola) and refreshing taste. The drink was reportedly invented in the 1970s on Long Island, New York, hence the name.
3. How strong is a Long Island Iced Tea?
A Long Island Iced Tea is one of the strongest cocktails because it contains multiple types of alcohol. A standard serving can have an alcohol content equivalent to 4-5 standard drinks, so it’s important to enjoy it responsibly.
4. Can I make a non-alcoholic version of a Long Island Iced Tea?
Yes! You can create a “Virgin Long Island Iced Tea” by omitting the alcohol and using substitutes like non-alcoholic triple sec, flavored syrups (like vanilla or almond), and extra sour mix or lemon-lime soda for a similar taste. Add cola for color and serve with a lemon wedge.
5. What’s the best way to mix a Long Island Iced Tea?
The best way to mix a Long Island Iced Tea is to combine equal parts vodka, white rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec in a shaker with ice. Add sour mix (or lemon juice and simple syrup) and shake well. Strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice, top with a splash of cola, and garnish with a lemon wedge. Stir gently before serving.
