Long Island Iced Tea

Pro tips

• Use fresh ice and chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink cold as the spirits dilute it.
• Layer spirits first before adding sour mix and cola to ensure even mixing of all five liquors.
• Taste after adding sour mix—adjust cola ratio based on sweetness preference, as brands vary.
• Pour cola last and gently to preserve carbonation and prevent the drink from becoming flat.

Substitutions

• Light rum → dark rum (richer, deeper flavor, less traditional)
• Triple sec → cointreau or orange curaçao (higher quality orange liqueurs)
• Bottled sour mix → fresh lemon juice + lime juice + simple syrup (1:1:1 ratio, better taste)
• Cola → lemon-lime soda (lighter, less caramel notes, more citrus-forward)

What spirits go into a Long Island Iced Tea?

The cocktail uses equal parts vodka, tequila, gin, light rum, and triple sec (1/2 jigger each), plus sour mix and cola.

How strong is a Long Island Iced Tea?

It's a very potent cocktail with 2.5 jiggers of liquor, so drink responsibly and serve with food.

Can I make Long Island Iced Tea without triple sec?

Triple sec is a key ingredient, but you can substitute cointreau or another orange liqueur for similar results.

What ratio of sour mix to cola should I use?

Use 1/2 to 1 jigger of sour mix depending on sweetness preference, then top with 3 jiggers of cola and ice.

Is fresh sour mix better than bottled?

Fresh lemon-lime sour mix offers better flavor, but bottled works well for convenience.