The Mai Tai is the quintessential tropical cocktail—a sweet, citrusy, and nutty blend that instantly transports you to a beach bar somewhere warm. With a bold rum base and fresh lime juice, it’s the perfect balance of refreshment and kick.
Serve it on a sunny day, at your next backyard luau, or when you just need a mini vacation in a glass.
⏱ Prep Time 5 minutes ｜ 🔥 Cook Time 0 minutes ｜ 🍽 Servings 1 glass ｜ 🌱 Difficulty Level Easy ｜ 📦 Storage Tips Best enjoyed fresh; mix just before serving
Ingredients List
- 1 oz white rum
- 1 oz dark rum (for float)
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz orange curaçao
- 1/2 oz orgeat syrup (almond syrup)
- Ice (crushed or cubed)
- Pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry (for garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add white rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, and orgeat syrup.
- Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
- Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice.
- Strain the mixture into the glass.
- Gently float the dark rum on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry.
Recipe Notes / Tips
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- For added flair, lightly torch the pineapple wedge.
- Orgeat syrup gives the classic nutty touch—don’t skip it.
Nutrition Info (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 215
- Carbs: 10g
- Sugar: 9g
- Alcohol: ~14% ABV
FAQs
- Q: Can I make this drink sweeter?
A: Add a splash of pineapple juice or simple syrup. - Q: What rum works best?
A: Use a light rum for the base and a dark Jamaican or Demerara rum for the float. - Q: Can I skip orgeat syrup?
A: You can, but it won’t be a true Mai Tai—almond syrup or amaretto are good substitutes.
Shook up a tiki classic? Share your tropical creation and tag #the_food_pedia on Instagram! 🍍🍒🍹
