The Ultimate Long Island Iced Tea Recipe: Strong, Smooth & Unforgettable
Master the iconic Long Island Iced Tea! This 5-spirit powerhouse blends vodka, rum, tequila, Triple Sec & citrus with a cola float.
Why This Cocktail is Legendary
Born in 1970s New York (though Tennessee claims origins!), this deceptively smooth giant packs five spirits into one tall glass. Despite its name, contains zero tea – the genius cola float mimics tea’s hue while letting the booze shine. Perfect for:
✅ Crowd-pleasing parties
✅ Bold-flavor seekers
✅ “One-and-done” drink enthusiasts
The Science of Balance
How five spirits + cola create magic:
| Spirit | Flavor Role |
|---|---|
| Vodka (Smirnoff) | Clean, neutral backbone |
| Rum (Bacardí) | Sweet caramel notes |
| Tequila (El Charro) | Earthy agave depth |
| Triple Sec | Citrus brightness |
| Cola Float | Caramel color + effervescence |
Classic Recipe: Bar-Strong & Crowd-Approved
Yield: 1 potent serving
Prep Time: 4 minutes | Total Time: 4 minutes
Glass: Hurricane or Highball
Occasion: Parties, BBQs, nightouts
Ingredients
- 15 ml (0.5 oz) Vodka (Smirnoff Red or citron upgrade)
- 15 ml (0.5 oz) White Rum (Bacardí Superior or aged rum for depth)
- 15 ml (0.5 oz) Silver Tequila (El Charro or 100% agave)
- 15 ml (0.5 oz) Triple Sec
- 30 ml (1 oz) Sweet-and-Sour Mix *[or DIY: 15ml lemon + 15ml lime + 5ml simple syrup]*
- 20-30 ml (0.75-1 oz) Coca-Cola (float for color/texture)
- Garnish: Lime wedge
Step-by-Step Instructions
- CHILL GLASS: Fill hurricane glass with ice.
- SHAKE HARD: In a cocktail shaker with ice, combine vodka, rum, tequila, Triple Sec, and sweet-and-sour mix. Shake 10-12 seconds until frosty.
- STRAIN & LAYER: Strain into ice-filled glass. Float cola by pouring over back of a spoon to create a layered effect.
- GARNISH & SERVE: Squeeze lime wedge over drink, drop in. Add straw.
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