Classic Mai Tai Cocktail – Easy Tropical Drink
A Mai Tai is a classic tropical cocktail that brings together rum, citrus, and a hint of almond flavor for a refreshing drink that transports you straight to an island paradise. With its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, this cocktail is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or lounging by the pool, the Mai Tai is the perfect companion for a fun and relaxing time.
Ingredients
- 1 oz light rum
- 1 oz dark rum
- 1/2 oz orange curaçao
- 1/2 oz orgeat syrup (almond syrup)
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/4 oz simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Ice cubes
- Lime wheel and mint sprig for garnish
Directions
Prepare your shaker. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
Combine ingredients. Add the light rum, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup (if using) to the shaker.
Shake it up. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
Strain into a glass. Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice and strain the cocktail mixture over the ice.
Add dark rum. Gently pour the dark rum over the top of the cocktail, creating a layered effect.
Garnish. Add a lime wheel and a sprig of mint to the glass for a fresh and colorful presentation.
Recipe tips
Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor. It adds a zesty freshness that bottled lime juice can’t match. For a less sweet version, skip the simple syrup. The orgeat syrup already provides a nice sweetness. Float the dark rum gently over the top to maintain the visual layering effect—it makes the presentation more impressive. If you prefer a stronger cocktail, reduce the amount of simple syrup or skip it entirely.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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