Cocktail Long Island Iced Tea Recipe: The Long Island Iced Tea is one of those cocktails that immediately grabs attention, not just because of its name but also because of its strong kick. Despite being called “iced tea,” this drink has absolutely no tea in it. Instead, it’s a powerful blend of five different spirits mixed with lemon juice, triple sec, simple syrup, and a splash of cola to give it that tea-like color. The result? A refreshing, smooth cocktail that tastes deceptively light but packs quite a punch.
The story behind the Long Island Iced Tea is as intriguing as the drink itself. It is often credited to a bartender named Robert “Rosebud” Butt, who is said to have created it in the 1970s during a contest in Long Island, New York. However, some argue that its origins trace back to Prohibition-era America when bootleggers mixed various spirits together to disguise alcohol in what looked like iced tea. Regardless of its true beginnings, today it stands as a classic party cocktail and a must-have on any bar menu.
The Long Island Iced Tea’s popularity lies in its versatility. It works well for casual house parties, lively nights out, and even summer gatherings because of its refreshing quality. At first sip, you might not realize just how much alcohol is in the glass because the balance of lemon, triple sec, and cola smooths out the edges of the spirits. But don’t be fooled—it’s one of the strongest cocktails you’ll come across.
Whether you’re an aspiring home bartender or just someone who loves experimenting with drinks, learning how to make a Long Island Iced Tea is a skill worth having. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions so that you can craft the perfect version of this iconic cocktail.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Long Island Iced Tea
To get started, let’s break down the ingredients. The Long Island Iced Tea may seem complicated at first glance because it uses several spirits, but once you gather everything, it’s surprisingly simple to put together.
Spirits Required
This cocktail is famous for being spirit-heavy, and the secret is in combining small amounts of multiple liquors rather than pouring large portions of one or two. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Vodka – A neutral spirit that forms the base of many cocktails.
- White Rum – Adds a slight sweetness and tropical note.
- Gin – Brings a herbal, botanical edge to the mix.
- Tequila – Provides a bold, earthy kick.
- Triple Sec (orange liqueur) – Balances the cocktail with citrusy sweetness.
The combination of these five spirits is what gives the Long Island Iced Tea its legendary strength. Each one adds its own subtle character, yet when mixed together, they blend seamlessly into a surprisingly smooth cocktail.
Mixers and Sweeteners
While the spirits bring the punch, the mixers and sweeteners soften the flavor, making the drink more approachable:
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the cocktail with a tangy acidity.
- Simple Syrup – A mixture of sugar and water that adds sweetness without grittiness.
- Cola – The finishing touch that gives the drink its tea-like appearance and a slight caramel flavor.
Garnish and Ice
- Lemon Wedge or Slice – For garnish, adding visual appeal and extra freshness.
- Plenty of Ice – Essential for keeping the drink cold and diluting the strong alcohol mix just enough for balance.
Essential Tools for Preparation
Just like any great recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference when mixing cocktails. Thankfully, the Long Island Iced Tea doesn’t require anything fancy—just a few bar basics.
Cocktail Shaker
A cocktail shaker helps blend the multiple spirits and mixers evenly. Since the Long Island Iced Tea contains several liquors, shaking ensures everything integrates properly before pouring into the glass.
Measuring Jigger
Accuracy matters here. Each spirit is usually measured in equal parts (commonly ½ ounce or 15 ml), and a jigger ensures that you don’t overpour. With so many ingredients, precision keeps the balance right and prevents one flavor from overpowering the rest.
Highball or Collins Glass
Traditionally, the Long Island Iced Tea is served in a tall highball or Collins glass. The shape of the glass allows room for plenty of ice, multiple spirits, mixers, and a splash of cola on top. A shorter glass just wouldn’t do this drink justice.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Long Island Iced Tea
Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making this cocktail at home.
Step 1 – Fill the Glass with Ice
Start with a tall highball glass and fill it to the brim with ice cubes. The ice serves two purposes: keeping the drink refreshingly cold and diluting the mix slightly as it melts. This dilution is key because without it, the combination of five spirits would be overwhelming.
If you want to be extra professional, you can also pre-chill the glass by leaving it in the freezer for a few minutes before making the drink. This small touch ensures the cocktail stays colder for longer.
Step 2 – Pour the Spirits
This is where the magic begins. The Long Island Iced Tea is famous because it combines five different spirits into one glass. To maintain balance, each liquor is usually added in equal proportions—around ½ ounce (15 ml) each. Here’s the order I recommend:
- Vodka – Start with vodka since it’s neutral and creates a smooth base.
- White Rum – Adds a hint of sweetness and tropical depth.
- Gin – Brings herbal and botanical notes.
- Tequila – Introduces an earthy bite that balances the sweetness.
- Triple Sec – Rounds everything out with a sweet citrus flavor.
When you pour them in one after another over ice, you’ll notice they layer slightly, but don’t worry—they’ll mix beautifully once shaken or stirred.
The key here is not to overpour. While it might be tempting to add “just a little extra,” keep in mind that this cocktail already has a powerful punch. Proper measurements ensure that no single spirit dominates, keeping the taste smooth and enjoyable rather than overwhelming.
Step 3 – Add Mixers and Sweeteners
Once the spirits are in, it’s time to balance the drink with mixers and sweeteners. Without these additions, the cocktail would taste harsh and overly strong.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Squeeze about ¾ ounce (20 ml) of lemon juice into the glass. This brightens the drink, adding refreshing acidity that cuts through the heavy alcohol. Fresh juice works far better than bottled lemon juice.
- Simple Syrup – Add ½ ounce (15 ml) of simple syrup to bring sweetness. It’s made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water, creating a smooth sweetener that mixes effortlessly into cocktails.
- Shake or Stir – At this stage, you can use your cocktail shaker to blend everything together. A quick shake with ice ensures that all five spirits and mixers are perfectly combined before the cola goes in.
This step is crucial because it transforms what could have been an overly boozy drink into a balanced, flavorful cocktail. The tangy lemon and sweet syrup soften the edges of the alcohol, making it far more drinkable.
Step 4 – Top with Cola
Now comes the finishing touch: cola. Just a splash (about 1–2 ounces) is enough to give the drink its signature tea-like color and a subtle caramel sweetness. Pour it gently over the back of a spoon or directly into the glass to avoid losing the fizz.
Cola doesn’t just color the drink—it ties everything together. The sweetness complements the citrus and syrup, while the carbonation adds a refreshing sparkle. The drink suddenly looks like a tall glass of iced tea, which is where the cocktail gets its name.
At this point, give the drink a gentle stir to mix the cola with the rest of the ingredients. Don’t shake after adding the soda, as it will go flat and ruin the texture.
Step 5 – Garnish and Serve
Finally, it’s time to dress up your cocktail. A good garnish not only makes your drink look appealing but also enhances the flavor experience.
- Lemon Wedge or Slice – Place a fresh lemon wedge on the rim of the glass or float a thin lemon wheel on top. The bright citrus aroma adds freshness with every sip.
- Optional Mint Sprig – For extra flair, you can add a small sprig of mint. While not traditional, it adds a lovely aroma and a pop of green color.
- Straw for Sipping – Since the drink is strong, a straw makes it easier to sip slowly, letting you enjoy it without being overwhelmed.
And there you have it—a beautifully crafted Long Island Iced Tea, ready to impress your friends or elevate your home bartending skills.
Tips for the Perfect Long Island Iced Tea
Making this cocktail isn’t just about following steps—it’s about balancing flavors and personalizing it to suit your taste. Here are some expert tips:
Balance the Alcohol
The secret to a great Long Island Iced Tea is proportion control. Stick to equal parts of the five spirits to prevent one from dominating. If you find the drink too strong, reduce each spirit slightly and increase the mixers.
Choose the Right Cola
Not all colas taste the same. A classic Coca-Cola gives a rich, caramel finish, while Pepsi is slightly sweeter and lighter. Some bartenders even experiment with craft colas or sugar-free options depending on preference.
Adjust Sweetness and Acidity
If you prefer a tarter drink, increase the lemon juice slightly. For a sweeter cocktail, add more simple syrup or an extra splash of cola. The beauty of this drink is that it’s highly customizable without losing its identity.
Chill Everything First
Cold ingredients make a big difference. Pre-chill your spirits, mixers, and even the glass if possible. A colder drink not only tastes more refreshing but also slows down dilution from the ice.
Experiment with Variations
Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, try variations like the Texas Tea (with whiskey added) or the Tokyo Tea (using Midori instead of cola). These twists keep things exciting and show just how versatile this cocktail can be.
Variations of the Long Island Iced Tea
One of the reasons the Long Island Iced Tea has remained popular for decades is its adaptability. While the classic version is already a showstopper, creative bartenders have developed fun variations that offer new flavors while keeping the drink’s signature punch. Here are a few worth trying:
Texas Tea
Think of this as the “big brother” of the Long Island. In addition to the five base spirits, a splash of whiskey is added. This makes the drink stronger, bolder, and slightly smokier.
Tokyo Tea
This version swaps cola for Midori, a bright green melon liqueur. The result is a vibrant, sweet, and fruity cocktail with an eye-catching neon green color.
Miami Iced Tea
Replace cola with cranberry juice for a refreshing, tart variation that looks stunning in a glass. This fruity twist is especially popular at beach bars.
Blue Long Island Iced Tea
Here, blue curaçao replaces triple sec, giving the drink a striking blue hue. It’s equally strong but looks tropical and playful.
Electric Iced Tea
A modern spin that uses an energy drink like Red Bull instead of cola. It’s popular among night owls who want both the kick of alcohol and caffeine.
Each of these versions shows how versatile the Long Island formula can be. By changing just one or two ingredients, you can completely transform the flavor and look of the cocktail while keeping its bold character intact.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making a Long Island Iced Tea isn’t overly complicated, there are some pitfalls that can turn your masterpiece into a mess. Avoiding these mistakes ensures your cocktail tastes as good as it looks.
Overpouring the Spirits
The number-one mistake people make is adding too much of one spirit—or all of them. Remember, balance is key. Too much tequila, for instance, can make the drink bitter and overwhelming.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients
Since this drink blends five different spirits, it’s tempting to buy the cheapest versions available. But low-quality alcohol can make the cocktail taste harsh. Mid-range brands are perfect—they won’t break the bank but still provide smoothness.
Skipping Fresh Lemon Juice
Bottled lemon juice lacks the brightness and zest of freshly squeezed lemon. Skipping this step can leave your drink flat and uninspired.
Adding Too Much Cola
Cola is only meant to top off the drink, not dominate it. Overdoing it will dilute the cocktail’s character, making it taste more like soda than a carefully crafted mix.
Not Enough Ice
Ice isn’t just for chilling—it also helps dilute the strong alcohol to make the drink smoother. A half-filled glass of ice will melt too quickly, leaving you with a watery drink. Always fill the glass to the top.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your Long Island Iced Tea turns out well-balanced, flavorful, and refreshing every time.
When to Serve Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea isn’t a casual weekday sipper—it’s a statement cocktail. Knowing when to serve it will make your occasions even more memorable.
Parties and Gatherings
Because it’s visually appealing and packs a punch, this cocktail is a favorite at parties. Guests love its smooth taste, and it’s a great conversation starter.
Summer BBQs and Beach Days
Cold, refreshing, and citrusy—the Long Island Iced Tea is perfect for warm weather. Its tea-like look makes it blend into casual outdoor settings while still delivering bar-level quality.
Celebrations and Special Nights Out
Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a night on the town, this cocktail adds excitement to any celebration. Its bold flavor and strength give the evening a festive kick.
Happy Hour Specials
Bars often feature the Long Island Iced Tea as a happy-hour highlight because of its popularity and value. A single glass offers more complexity than most standard cocktails.
Just keep in mind—it’s a strong drink, so it’s best enjoyed when you don’t need to drive afterward. One or two glasses are usually more than enough for most people.
Nutritional Information and Alcohol Content
If you’re mindful about calories or alcohol intake, it’s worth knowing what goes into a Long Island Iced Tea beyond just taste.
- Calories – A typical glass can range between 250–300 calories, mainly from alcohol and cola.
- Sugar Content – Simple syrup and cola add sweetness, contributing about 20–25 grams of sugar per drink.
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV) – Despite tasting smooth, the drink averages around 22% ABV, much higher than most cocktails. This is why it’s known for being deceptively strong.
Compared to lighter cocktails like mojitos or margaritas, the Long Island Iced Tea is far more potent and calorie-dense. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it—just do so responsibly and be aware of its strength.
Pairing Long Island Iced Tea with Food
A cocktail as bold as the Long Island Iced Tea deserves food that can keep up with its character. Since it’s strong, tangy, and slightly sweet, it pairs wonderfully with flavorful dishes that balance or complement its kick.
Spicy Foods
The citrus and sweetness in the drink cut through spicy dishes beautifully. Think buffalo wings, jalapeño poppers, or spicy tacos. The fizz from the cola also helps cool the palate after each bite.
Grilled Meats
BBQ ribs, burgers, and grilled chicken pair naturally with this cocktail. The smoky, savory flavors of the meat blend nicely with the refreshing citrus and cola finish.
Seafood
If you prefer something lighter, seafood works too. Try shrimp skewers, fried calamari, or fish tacos. The lemon in the cocktail mirrors the brightness of seafood seasonings.
Party Snacks
Nachos, fries, onion rings, or even a big bowl of salted popcorn make great companions. These salty, crunchy snacks balance the sweetness of the drink, making it easy to sip between bites.
Because Long Island Iced Tea is filling and strong, it’s best enjoyed with finger foods or hearty party meals rather than delicate dishes.
The History and Origin of Long Island Iced Tea
The story of the Long Island Iced Tea is surrounded by mystery and debate, but two main theories stand out.
The Prohibition-Era Origin
Some claim the drink was born during Prohibition in the 1920s in a community called “Long Island” in Tennessee. Bootleggers allegedly mixed several spirits together with cola and lemon to disguise alcohol, making it look like iced tea.
The 1970s Bartender Story
Another widely accepted version credits Robert “Rosebud” Butt, a bartender from Long Island, New York. He reportedly created the cocktail in 1972 during a contest to invent a new drink using triple sec. His version gained instant popularity for being refreshing yet strong, and soon it spread across bars worldwide.
Regardless of which story is true, the cocktail’s name and style stuck. Today, it’s one of the most iconic bar drinks, recognized instantly by both its tea-like appearance and notorious reputation as a “sneaky strong” cocktail.
Why Long Island Iced Tea Remains Popular
With thousands of cocktails available, why has the Long Island Iced Tea stayed so iconic? The reasons are simple:
- Deceptive Smoothness – Despite containing five spirits, the drink tastes refreshing and easy to sip.
- Visual Appeal – Its iced tea look makes it approachable, even for people who might shy away from strong cocktails.
- Versatility – From beach parties to upscale bars, it fits into nearly any setting.
- Customizable Flavor – With so many variations, you can adapt it to suit different moods and occasions.
- Value for Money – In bars, one Long Island Iced Tea often feels like “two drinks in one,” making it a popular happy-hour order.
It’s more than just a cocktail—it’s an experience. People order it not only for the taste but also for the fun, lively energy it brings to social settings.
How to Make a Pitcher of Long Island Iced Tea for Parties
If you’re hosting friends, making one cocktail at a time can be a hassle. Instead, prepare a pitcher of Long Island Iced Tea so everyone can serve themselves.
Ingredients (for 6–8 servings):
- 1 cup vodka
- 1 cup white rum
- 1 cup gin
- 1 cup tequila
- 1 cup triple sec
- 1 ½ cups fresh lemon juice
- 1 ½ cups simple syrup
- 2–3 cups cola (to top off)
- Lemon slices and ice for serving
Instructions:
- In a large pitcher, combine all the spirits, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Stir well and refrigerate for at least an hour to chill.
- When serving, fill glasses with ice, pour in the cocktail mix, and top each with cola.
- Garnish with lemon slices.
This method saves time and ensures consistency, making it perfect for barbecues, game nights, or big celebrations.
Responsible Drinking Tips
The Long Island Iced Tea is delicious, but its strength makes it a drink that requires responsibility. Here are a few tips:
- Pace Yourself – One glass is often enough; two at most if you’re relaxing at home.
- Stay Hydrated – Alternate between your cocktail and a glass of water to avoid dehydration.
- Don’t Mix with Heavy Drinking Games – This cocktail already has multiple spirits; combining it with fast-paced games can be overwhelming.
- Know Your Limits – Everyone has a different tolerance. Drink slowly and listen to your body.
- Never Drink and Drive – Because this cocktail is strong, always arrange safe transportation.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy the cocktail’s flavor and fun without the unpleasant aftereffects.
FAQs about Cocktail Long Island Iced Tea Recipe
1. Why is it called Long Island Iced Tea if it has no tea?
It gets its name from its appearance—when cola is added, it looks just like iced tea, even though it contains no actual tea.
2. Can I make Long Island Iced Tea without tequila?
Yes, but tequila is part of the classic recipe. Skipping it will slightly change the flavor, making it smoother but less bold.
3. How strong is a Long Island Iced Tea?
It’s very strong, with an alcohol content averaging around 22% ABV, which is nearly double that of most cocktails.
4. What’s the best cola to use?
Classic Coca-Cola works best, but Pepsi or even sugar-free colas can be used depending on your taste preference.
5. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, you can pre-mix the spirits, lemon juice, and simple syrup in advance. Just add ice and cola right before serving to keep it fresh and fizzy.
Conclusion
The Long Island Iced Tea is more than just a cocktail—it’s a legend in the world of mixology. Its clever disguise as iced tea, bold mix of five spirits, and refreshing citrus-cola finish make it one of the most exciting drinks you can order or prepare. From casual gatherings to special celebrations, it has a way of bringing fun and energy to any setting.
Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with variations like the Tokyo Tea or Blue Long Island, this cocktail never disappoints. With the right balance, fresh ingredients, and a little flair in presentation, you can master it at home just like a pro bartender.
So the next time you’re looking for a drink that’s as strong as it is refreshing, reach for a Long Island Iced Tea—you’ll understand why it has stood the test of time.
