The Real Long Island Iced Tea

Name: The Real Long Island Iced Tea
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 oz vodka; 1/2 oz white rum; 1/2 oz gin; 1/2 oz tequila; 1/2 oz triple sec; 1 oz fresh lemon juice; 1 oz simple syrup; top up cola (chilled); 1 lemon wedge (for garnish)

10 min 1 servings Easy

All Recipes

Discover the authentic Long Island Iced Tea with a perfect mix of spirits and a splash of cola.

Prep

10 min

Total

10 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

The Long Island Iced Tea is a classic cocktail that has gained immense popularity due to its refreshing taste and potent kick. Contrary to its name, this drink doesn't contain any tea but is instead a harmonious blend of spirits, sour mix, and cola, giving it a tea-like appearance. This recipe is for those who appreciate a strong cocktail with a smooth finish. Our version of the Long Island Iced Tea stays true to its roots, delivering a balanced blend of flavours that makes it a perennial favourite at parties and gatherings.

Instructions

Prepare the cocktail shaker

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes to chill the mixture.

Pro tip: Use fresh ice for the best results.

Add the spirits

Pour vodka, white rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec into the shaker.

Pro tip: Chill your spirits before use for a crisper drink.

Add lemon juice and syrup

Add fresh lemon juice and simple syrup to the shaker.

Pro tip: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavour.

Shake the mixture

Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds until well combined.

Pro tip: A good shake ensures the flavours meld together.

Prepare the glass

Fill a tall glass with ice cubes to chill the drink.

Pro tip: Pre-chilling the glass helps maintain the drink's temperature.

Strain and serve

Strain the mixture into the prepared glass and top with cola. Stir gently.

Pro tip: Top with cola just before serving to keep it fizzy.

Garnish

Garnish with a lemon wedge on the rim of the glass.

Pro tip: A lemon wedge adds a decorative touch and a burst of citrus aroma.

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Tips & Tricks

Always use fresh lemon juice for the best taste.
Chill your spirits for a crisper drink.
Use high-quality cola for a balanced sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the real Long Island Iced Tea?

The real Long Island Iced Tea is a cocktail made with vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec, lemon juice, simple syrup, and cola.

How many calories are in a Long Island Iced Tea?

A typical Long Island Iced Tea contains around 275 calories per serving.

Can I make a Long Island Iced Tea ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the spirits, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time and add cola just before serving.

What cola should I use for a Long Island Iced Tea?

Use a high-quality cola to ensure a balanced sweetness and refreshing finish.

Is there any actual tea in a Long Island Iced Tea?

No, there is no tea in a Long Island Iced Tea. The cola gives it a tea-like appearance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Real Long Island Iced Tea in a tall glass over ice, garnished with a lemon wedge for added zest. It pairs wonderfully with light appetizers like shrimp cocktails or vegetable crudités. For those planning ahead, you can prepare the mixture minus the cola and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add the cola just before serving to keep the drink fizzy and refreshing.