The Recipe Long Island Iced Tea Cocktail 18+

Look no further than the recipe long island iced tea cocktail–

Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.

In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.

So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

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Long Island Iced Tea: A Boozy Delight with an Aussie Twist

Calling all cocktail lovers! If you enjoy a drink that’s as potent as it is refreshing, the Long Island Iced Tea might just be your perfect match. This classic cocktail is renowned for its deceptive simplicity, rich history, and vibrant flavours that pack a serious punch. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just looking to mix up something special, the Long Island Iced Tea is here to liven up your gathering. Let’s dive into its fascinating story, learn how to make the perfect version at home (with an Australian twist), and explore a few creative alternatives to keep your cocktail game strong.

The Story Behind the Boozy “Tea”

Despite the name, the Long Island Iced Tea doesn’t contain a single drop of tea! Instead, it’s a clever illusion, its cola topping lending a tea-like hue to this otherwise spirit-heavy concoction. The drink is said to have originated in the 1970s, with competing tales tracing its roots either to Long Island, New York, or a little-known bartender contest in Tennessee. Regardless of its true birthplace, the cocktail has become a global favourite, celebrated for its ability to combine five spirits into a surprisingly balanced, refreshing drink.

How to Make a Classic Long Island Iced Tea

Here’s how you can shake up this iconic drink at home, Australian style.

Ingredients:

30ml vodka
30ml Bundaberg UP Rum (Australian golden rum)
30ml silver tequila
30ml Australian dry gin
30ml Cointreau or orange liqueur
45ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
15ml sugar syrup
Cola, to top
Lemon or lime wedge, to garnish

Instructions:

Ice It Up: Start by filling your cocktail shaker with ice cubes. The colder, the better!
Add the Spirits: Pour in the vodka, Bundy UP Rum, tequila, gin, and Cointreau.
Balance the Citrus: Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and sugar syrup to the mix.
Shake It: Secure the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds.
Pour and Top: Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice. Top with cola, pouring it gently to create a layered effect.
Garnish: Add a lemon or lime wedge for a pop of colour and citrus aroma.

Pro Tips:

Opt for high-quality spirits like Australian dry gin for a more refined flavour.
Fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable for that bright, zesty finish.
Adjust the sugar syrup to suit your sweetness preference.

Sipping Safely: A Reminder

While the Long Island Iced Tea is undeniably delicious, it’s also a strong cocktail. Its blend of multiple spirits adds up quickly, so sip slowly and enjoy responsibly.

Creative Variations on the Long Island Iced Tea

The Long Island Iced Tea is a playground for creativity. If you love its boldness but want to try something a bit different, these twists are sure to impress.

1. Hawaiian Iced Tea

Add a tropical flair to your cocktail repertoire with this fruity variation.

Ingredients:

30ml vodka
30ml coconut rum
30ml silver tequila
30ml Australian dry gin
30ml Cointreau
45ml pineapple juice
15ml sugar syrup
Soda water, to top
Pineapple slice, to garnish

Instructions:

Follow the same method as the classic recipe, replacing lemon juice with pineapple juice and cola with soda water.
Garnish with a pineapple slice for that tropical vibe.

2. Texas Tea

A Southern-style spin that incorporates whiskey for a richer flavour.

Ingredients:

30ml vodka
30ml Bundaberg UP Rum
30ml silver tequila
30ml Australian dry gin
30ml bourbon whiskey
45ml lemon juice
15ml sugar syrup
Cola, to top
Lemon wheel, to garnish

Instructions:

Substitute whiskey for Cointreau in the classic recipe.
Prepare as usual and garnish with a lemon wheel for a bold, Southern finish.

3. Blue Long Island

Give your cocktail a striking blue hue with this vibrant variation.

Ingredients:

30ml vodka
30ml Bundaberg UP Rum
30ml silver tequila
30ml Australian dry gin
30ml blue curaçao
45ml lemon juice
15ml sugar syrup
Lemonade, to top
Lemon slice, to garnish

Instructions:

Replace Cointreau with blue curaçao and cola with lemonade.
Shake, pour, and top as usual. The vivid blue colour will wow your guests!

Pairing Long Island Iced Tea with Food

The Long Island Iced Tea’s complexity makes it a versatile pairing partner. Here are some ideas to match this boozy delight with complementary dishes:

Starters:

Seafood platters: Oysters, prawns, and smoked salmon bring out the cocktail’s citrusy freshness.
Crispy calamari: Its saltiness balances the drink’s sweetness.

Main Courses:

BBQ meats: Grilled lamb chops or steak pair perfectly with the boldness of the cocktail.
Spicy tacos: The drink’s cola fizz and citrus notes cool down spicy dishes.

Desserts:

Citrus tarts: Lemon or lime tarts echo the cocktail’s zesty character.
Dark chocolate mousse: The rich, bittersweet flavour complements the drink’s complexity.

A Cocktail Journey: More Than a Drink

The Long Island Iced Tea isn’t just a beverage; it’s an experience. From its storied origins to its versatile recipe and myriad variations, this cocktail invites you to experiment, savour, and share. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or venture into Hawaiian or Texas-inspired territory, each sip promises a celebration of flavour and creativity.

Thanks for joining us behind the bar! Whether you’re crafting for yourself or shaking things up for friends, remember: it’s not just about the drink, but the memories we make while we sip. Keep experimenting, keep pouring with love, and don’t forget to check back at Shake, Sip, Serve for more inspiration. Cheers to the next round!
Your Favourite Bartender KAD xo
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/