A tropical cocktail bursting with fruity flavors, perfect for summer parties or relaxing by the beach.
Ingredients
1 oz light rum
1 oz dark rum
1/2 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1/2 oz orange curaçao
1/2 oz orgeat syrup (almond syrup)
1/4 oz simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
Crushed ice
Mint leaves (for garnish)
Lime wedge (for garnish)
Cherry (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
In a cocktail shaker, I add the light rum, dark rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and simple syrup (if desired).
I fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled.
Next, I strain the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice.
To finish, I garnish the drink with a sprig of mint, a lime wedge, and a cherry.
I serve it immediately and enjoy this tropical refreshment!
Servings and Timing
Servings: 1 serving
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
If I want to get a little creative, there are a few variations I can try:
Fruit twist: I can add a splash of pineapple juice for a more tropical flair or try different fruit juices to change up the flavor.
Spiced Mai Tai: I can experiment with adding a bit of spiced rum to give the cocktail a deeper flavor profile.
Frozen Mai Tai: For a slushier version, I can blend the ingredients with ice for a frozen Mai Tai, perfect for hot days.
Mocktail version: If I want a non-alcoholic version, I can omit the rum and add more fruit juices and soda water to keep the tropical vibe going.
Storage/Reheating
Since this is a freshly made cocktail, it’s best enjoyed immediately. I wouldn’t recommend storing it for later because the ice will dilute the drink, and the fresh flavors might fade. However, if I ever make a large batch for a party, I can prepare the liquid mixture ahead of time (without the ice and garnishes) and keep it in the fridge for a few hours. I’ll just add the ice and garnish right before serving.
FAQs
How can I adjust the sweetness of the Mai Tai?
I can control the sweetness by adjusting the amount of simple syrup. If I like my drinks sweeter, I’ll add a little extra. If I prefer it more tart, I’ll skip the simple syrup altogether.
Can I use other types of rum?
Yes! While the classic Mai Tai calls for light and dark rum, I can experiment with different varieties, like spiced rum, to create a new twist. However, I recommend sticking with at least one type of rum for the traditional flavor.
What’s the best garnish for a Mai Tai?
I love garnishing my Mai Tai with fresh mint leaves, a lime wedge, and a cherry. These garnishes not only look beautiful but also add a little extra aroma and flavor to the drink.
Is the orgeat syrup essential to the Mai Tai?
Orgeat syrup is definitely a key ingredient that gives the Mai Tai its signature almond flavor. I wouldn’t skip it if I want the classic taste, but if I’m in a pinch, I can try substituting it with another sweet syrup (though the flavor won’t be the same).
Can I make a large batch of Mai Tais?
For a party or get-together, I can make a large batch of the liquid mix ahead of time (without the ice and garnishes), store it in the fridge, and then serve it with ice and garnish when ready. Just be sure to adjust the proportions based on the number of servings I need.
Conclusion
The Mai Tai is a timeless cocktail that’s perfect for any tropical-inspired gathering. I love how it balances sweet, sour, and nutty flavors in a way that’s both refreshing and delicious. Whether it’s for a party or just a quiet evening on the patio, it’s one of my go-to drinks that always gets compliments. Plus, it’s so easy to make that I can enjoy it anytime I’m craving something fun and fruity!
Recipe:
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Mai Tai
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A tropical cocktail bursting with fruity flavors, perfect for summer parties or relaxing by the beach.
Ingredients
1 oz light rum
1 oz dark rum
1/2 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1/2 oz orange curaçao
1/2 oz orgeat syrup (almond syrup)
1/4 oz simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
Crushed ice
Mint leaves (for garnish)
Lime wedge (for garnish)
Cherry (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, add the light rum, dark rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and simple syrup (if desired).
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish the drink with a sprig of mint, a lime wedge, and a cherry.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Adjust the sweetness of the Mai Tai by adding more or less simple syrup.
If desired, try experimenting with spiced rum for a deeper flavor profile.
For a frozen version, blend the ingredients with ice for a slushier drink.
For a non-alcoholic version, omit the rum and add fruit juices and soda water for a tropical mocktail.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
