The Best Long Island Iced Tea Recipe
Looking for a refreshing cocktail for summer? Wait until you try this Long Island Iced Tea recipe that will knock your socks off!
This one’s an oldie but a goodie.
And it’s a fun one to serve at a summer gathering or enjoy on a hot summer day.
With the arrival of summer grilling season, I couldn’t resist sharing a refreshing liquid delight to complement your next backyard BBQs.
Today, we are making Long Island Iced Teas that are perfect for those lazy summer afternoons on the porch or patio and summer barbecues.
Wait until you try this iconic cocktail! And yes, it packs quite a punch so please drink responsibly.
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What Is a Long Island Iced Tea?
A Long Island Iced Tea is a popular cocktail known for its potent blend of multiple spirits, resulting in a strong and flavorful drink.
Despite its name, the beverage doesn’t actually contain any tea. Instead, it combines equal parts of several clear spirits together with a splash of lemon and a topping of cola.
Some recipes include simple syrup too, but I don’t think it needs it.
The combination of these ingredients creates a complex, boozy concoction that is both refreshing and deceptively smooth.
So it can sneak up on you real quick!
Despite its high alcohol content, the Long Island Iced Tea remains a beloved choice for those seeking a strong and enjoyable mixed drink.
How Much Alcohol Does a Long Island Iced Tea Have?
The Long Island Iced Tea is known for being a strong cocktail with significant alcohol content.
The classic recipe typically includes equal parts of vodka, rum, tequila, gin, and triple sec, each measuring about 1/2 to 1 ounce.
This means that the total alcohol content from these spirits alone is approximately 2 1/2 to 5 ounces depending on the recipe.
While the addition of lemon juice, simple syrup, and cola dilutes the alcohol to a degree, this cocktail still packs a punch.
Because I’m not big on mixed drinks, I prefer a cocktail that is less potent, so I dilute mine more. But this recipe is easy to adjust depending on the recipient and size of the glass.
It’s always important to consume alcoholic beverages responsibly and be aware of your limits.
Which Alcohol Does a Long Island Iced Tea Recipe Contain?
A Long Island Iced Tea recipe typically contains the following spirits.
- Vodka
- Rum
- Tequila
- Gin
- Triple Sec
So you can see why the drink is so strong. Because there are five different types of alcohol, this recipe will sneak up on you if you drink too much too quickly so be aware of your consumption.
What is the Best Vodka for a Long Island Iced Tea?
Since the Long Island Iced Tea recipe contains several different spirits and ingredients, you’ll want a vodka that complements the overall taste without overpowering it.
Here are a few brands of vodka that work well in this cocktail.
- Ketel One
- Absolut
- Tito’s Handmade Vodka
- Grey Goose
- Svedka
Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the best vodka for your Long Island Iced Tea.
If it were up to me, I’d go with Tito’s. It’s clean with a slightly sweeter note than some of the other brands.
But feel free to experiment with different brands and see which one you enjoy most. Remember, the goal is to find a vodka that enhances the overall balance and taste of the cocktail without overpowering the other flavors.
Cheers to finding the perfect blend for your summertime enjoyment!
Is Texas Tea the Same as Long Island Iced Tea?
Yes, Texas Tea is essentially the same cocktail as Long Island Iced Tea. The name “Texas Tea” is sometimes used as a regional variation of this popular beverage.
Both cocktails are made with a combination of spirits. But the Texas Tea typically includes vodka, rum, tequila, gin, and sometimes whiskey or bourbon, along with other ingredients such as lemon juice, simple syrup, and cola.
While the specific ratios and ingredients may vary slightly between individual recipes, the overall concept and flavor profile is roughly the same. Both cocktails are known for their strong and potent nature.
So, if you encounter a menu or someone referring to a Texas Tea, you can expect it to be pretty similar to a Long Island Iced Tea.
How to Make a Long Island Iced Tea Recipe
Because it is a potent combination of spirits with a refreshing taste, this classic cocktail is a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or simply want to enjoy a well-crafted drink at home, this is a fun one to serve and enjoy.
Here’s what you need to sip, savor, and master the art of making a Long Island Iced Tea like a seasoned mixologist.
Ingredients
- vodka
- rum
- tequila
- gin
- triple sec
- lemon juice
- cola
- lemon wedges and mint leaves (for garnish)
- ice cubes
One of the reasons I love to make this cocktail in the warmer months is because I have lots of fresh mint growing in the garden.
So this gives me a great excuse to use it!
Directions to Make a Recipe for Long Island Iced Tea
While there are several types of alcohol in this recipe, it’s really easy to make because it’s made with equal parts.
Here’s how to make this refreshing and boozy cocktail.
- Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
- Add vodka, rum, tequila, gin, triple sec, and lemon juice to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds or until the shaker starts to sweat.
- Fill a highball glass or mason jar with ice cubes and strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Top it off with a splash of cola. I prefer to go heavier on the cola for myself to dilute the alcohol mix so it is a little less potent.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and mint leaves.
- Give it a gentle stir before sipping.
Making It Your Own
While the classic recipe is undeniably delightful, you can always add own take on a this iconic beverage.
Here are a few ideas for inspiration to get creative with this refreshing cocktail.
- Fruity Twist: Experiment with muddled berries like strawberries or raspberries for a burst of summery flavors.
- Herbal Infusion: Add a few sprigs of fresh mint, basil, or even lavender to lend an aromatic touch.
- Tropical Vibes: Replace the cola with pineapple juice for a tropical vacation in a glass.
- Bubbly Bliss: Swap the cola for lemon-lime soda to give your drink a fizzy lift.
The Best Long Island Iced Tea Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Shot Glass Or anything that can measure an ounce
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
- Add vodka, rum, tequila, gin, triple sec, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker.
- Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
- Fill a highball glass or mason jar with ice cubes and strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Top it off with a splash of cola.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and mint leaves.
- Give it a gentle stir before sipping.
Nutrition
More About This Long Island Iced Tea Recipe
Have you ever made a Long Island Iced Tea before? Do you have any twists on the recipe? I would love to know more in the comments below.
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