When it comes to cocktails that pack a punch while still being smooth and refreshing, few drinks are as iconic as the Long Island Iced Tea. Despite its name, there’s no tea in this drink at all—it gets its amber color from cola, which blends beautifully with a mix of spirits. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a summer barbecue, or just looking to master a classic cocktail at home, this is the drink to know.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to transform your cooking with this Long Island Iced Tea recipe recipe, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to suit every occasion.
🍸 What Makes Long Island Iced Tea Special?
Strong but smooth – Made with five different spirits, yet perfectly balanced.
Deceptively simple – The ingredients are common, and the recipe is quick to prepare.
Versatile – Great for casual gatherings, parties, or as a restaurant-quality drink at home.
Refreshing finish – The splash of cola and citrus keeps it crisp.
🌟 Ingredients for Long Island Iced Tea Recipe
Base Spirits
½ oz vodka
½ oz rum (white)
½ oz tequila (silver)
½ oz gin
½ oz triple sec (orange liqueur)
Other Ingredients
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
½ oz simple syrup (or sugar syrup)
Cola (to top up)
Lemon wedge (for garnish)
Ice cubes
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Fill the Glass
Use a tall glass (highball) and fill it with ice cubes.
Step 2: Add the Spirits
Pour in vodka, rum, tequila, gin, and triple sec.
Step 3: Balance with Citrus
Add lemon juice and simple syrup. This balances the strength of the alcohol with sweetness and acidity.
Step 4: Top with Cola
Finish with a splash of cola for color and a hint of caramel flavor.
Step 5: Stir & Garnish
Give it a gentle stir, then garnish with a lemon wedge.
💡 Practical Tips for the Perfect Long Island Iced Tea
Use quality spirits – Even though there are multiple types of alcohol, their flavors come through.
Don’t overdo the cola – Too much will dilute the cocktail; a splash is enough.
Keep it cold – Lots of ice is essential for balance.
Batch for parties – Mix the spirits in advance, then add cola when serving.
Serve responsibly – This cocktail is stronger than it tastes!
🌈 Fun Variations to Try
Long Beach Iced Tea – Swap cola for cranberry juice.
Texas Tea – Add a splash of bourbon for an extra kick.
Miami Iced Tea – Replace cola with peach schnapps and lemon-lime soda.
Blue Long Island – Swap triple sec for blue curaçao for a tropical look.
Virgin Long Island – Mix lemon juice, cola, iced tea, and orange juice for a mocktail version.
🍴 Pairing Ideas
While a cocktail on its own is refreshing, pairing it with the right foods can elevate your dining experience. Try these:
Seafood platters – Shrimp cocktail, crab cakes, or oysters.
Barbecue favorites – Ribs, chicken wings, or pulled pork sliders.
Spicy dishes – Tacos, nachos, or Thai food, as the sweetness balances the heat.
Conclusion
Now you know how to transform your cooking with this Long Island Iced Tea recipe recipe! It’s bold, refreshing, and surprisingly simple to make at home. With just a few ingredients and a couple of minutes, you can master one of the most famous cocktails in the world.
Whether you stick with the classic or experiment with fun variations, the Long Island Iced Tea is guaranteed to impress your guests and elevate any occasion.
So grab your shaker, mix it up, and sip responsibly—cheers! 🥂