Long Island Iced Tea Recipe

The Long Island Iced Tea is a classic cocktail that packs a punch, combining a variety of spirits with a splash of cola to create a drink that resembles iced tea but carries a much stronger kick. This popular drink is perfect for summer gatherings, parties, or just a relaxing evening at home. Here’s a detailed look at how to make this iconic cocktail and a bit of its history.

A Brief History of the Long Island Iced Tea

The origins of the Long Island Iced Tea are somewhat disputed. Some claim it was invented in the 1970s at the Oak Beach Inn on Long Island, New York, by bartender Robert “Rosebud” Butt during a contest to create a new mixed drink using Triple Sec. Others trace it back to the 1920s Prohibition era in the United States, where a similar drink was allegedly created in Long Island, Tennessee. Regardless of its true origins, the Long Island Iced Tea has become a staple in bars and restaurants worldwide.

Ingredients

To make a classic Long Island Iced Tea, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 ounce vodka
• 1/2 ounce gin
• 1/2 ounce white rum
• 1/2 ounce tequila
• 1/2 ounce Triple Sec
• 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 1 ounce simple syrup
• Splash of cola
• Lemon wedge or slice for garnish
• Ice

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Glass: Start by filling a highball glass or a tall glass with ice. This will ensure your cocktail stays chilled and refreshing.
2. Mix the Spirits: In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and Triple Sec. Add the fresh lemon juice and simple syrup.
3. Shake It Up: Fill the shaker with ice, cover, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This will properly mix and chill the ingredients.
4. Pour: Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with ice.
5. Add a Splash of Cola: Top off your drink with a splash of cola. This gives the Long Island Iced Tea its distinctive “iced tea” appearance.
6. Garnish: Garnish with a lemon wedge or slice for a bit of added flair and a hint of extra citrus aroma.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Give your cocktail a gentle stir with a straw or a stirring stick, and enjoy your perfectly balanced Long Island Iced Tea!

Tips for the Perfect Long Island Iced Tea

• Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality spirits and fresh lemon juice will significantly enhance the flavor of your cocktail.
• Balance: The key to a great Long Island Iced Tea is balance. The combination of different spirits should blend seamlessly, with none overpowering the others.
• Simple Syrup: You can easily make your own simple syrup by combining equal parts sugar and water, heating until the sugar dissolves, and then letting it cool.
• Experiment: Feel free to experiment with the ratios and ingredients. Some variations include using different types of cola or adding a splash of lime juice for extra zest.

Conclusion

The Long Island Iced Tea is a timeless cocktail that continues to delight drinkers with its unique blend of spirits and refreshing taste. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a quiet evening, this drink is sure to impress. Cheers to enjoying a classic Long Island Iced Tea!

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Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family, and let us know your favorite variations of the Long Island Iced Tea in the comments below. Happy mixing!