Mai Tai Recipe

When the sun sets and evening arrives, a Mai Tai is the perfect way to escape to a tropical paradise. This classic cocktail, born from the 1940s Polynesian pop craze, combines rum, orange liqueur, and pineapple juice into a refreshing blend of sweetness and zest.

The Mai Tai’s charm lies not just in its fruity flavors but also in its ability to evoke carefree, sunny days. Originating in the mid-20th century, it celebrates the spirit of adventure and the allure of the South Pacific.

This Mai Tai recipe shines with a balance of fresh lime juice, rich aged rum, and a hint of almond from orgeat syrup. It’s a harmonious mix that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

Whether you’re relaxing or hosting a gathering, this recipe adds a delightful twist to a beloved classic.

Why I Love This Recipe?

• A Taste of Nostalgia: Every sip feels like a mini-vacation, evoking memories of tropical getaways and lazy afternoons.
• Customizable Fun: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences or to use up what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a hit at parties, adding a touch of exotic flair to any gathering.

Beyond the Classics: Try These Cocktails!

• Hugo Spritz
• Peach Mojito
• Limoncello Spritz
• Arnold Palmer Cocktail
• Mezcalita Cocktail

Mai Tai Recipe

The Mai Tai is a classic tropical cocktail renowned for its refreshing blend of rum, citrus, and almond flavors. With a base of white rum, complemented by orange liqueur, lime juice, and Orgeat syrup, it delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Served over crushed ice and garnished with a sprig of mint and a slice of lime, it's a vibrant and flavorful concoction that instantly transports you to sun-drenched shores with every sip.

4.80 from 5 votes

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Course: Beverage

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes minutes

Calories: 250kcal

Author: Anne Carter

Servings: 1 Serving

Equipment

• ▢
  Cocktail shaker
• ▢
  Jigger or measuring cups
• ▢
  Cocktail strainer
• ▢
  Glassware
• ▢
  Ice crusher or crushed ice

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 1/2 ounces white rum
• ▢ 1/2 ounce orange liqueur
• ▢ 1/2 ounce lime juice
• ▢ 1/2 ounce Orgeat syrup
• ▢ 3/4 ounce dark rum
• ▢ mint sprig
• ▢ lime wheel

Instructions

• Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
• Pour in the white rum, orange liqueur, lime juice, and Orgeat syrup.
• Shake well until chilled.
• Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
• Float the dark rum on top by pouring it gently over the back of a spoon.
• Garnish with a mint sprig and lime wheel, if desired.

Notes

1. Orgeat Syrup Substitute: If you don’t have Orgeat syrup, you can use almond syrup or simple syrup as a substitute, though the flavor will vary slightly.
2. Choosing Rum: While the recipe calls for specific types of rum, feel free to experiment with different brands and styles to find the flavor profile you enjoy best.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Cocktail | Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Sodium: 10mg | Sugar: 14g

Here Are Three Unique Tips from My Personal Experience!

• Fresh citrus is key: For the best-tasting Mai Tai, always use freshly squeezed lime juice. It adds a bright, zesty flavor that you just can’t get from bottled juice. Trust me, it makes a world of difference in the final cocktail.
• Don’t forget the garnish: A Mai Tai isn’t just about what’s in the glass; it’s also about the presentation. Adding a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lime not only looks beautiful but also enhances the aroma and overall drinking experience. It’s those little details that take your cocktail to the next level.
• Experiment with different rum blends: While traditional Mai Tais calls for specific types of rum, don’t be afraid to mix things up and try different combinations. You might discover a new favorite variation that suits your taste preferences perfectly. Whether it’s light rum, aged rum, or a blend of both, the possibilities are endless!

What to Serve With Mai Tai Recipe?

• Baja Fish Tacos
• Red Lobster Coconut Shrimp
• Ahi Poke
• Key Lime Pie
• Easy Stuffed Peppers