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Mai Tai Cocktail: The Ultimate Guide to Crafting the Perfect Tropical Drink


  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cocktail 1x

Description

Experience the vibrant taste of a classic Mai Tai cocktail, blending light and dark rum with orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and fresh lime juice. Perfect for summer or any festive occasion, this refreshing drink is garnished with mint, orange, and a cherry, delivering a taste of paradise in every sip.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz light rum
  • 3/4 oz dark rum
  • 1/2 oz orange curaçao
  • 1/2 oz orgeat syrup
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
  • Mint leaves (for garnish)
  • Orange slice (for garnish)
  • Maraschino cherry (for garnish)
  • Crushed ice

Instructions

  1. Gather Your Tools: Ensure you have a cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer, and a glass (rocks glass or tiki mug) ready.
  2. Measure the Ingredients: Using a jigger, measure 2 oz of light rum, 3/4 oz of dark rum, 1/2 oz of orange curaçao, 1/2 oz of orgeat syrup, 1 oz of fresh lime juice, and 1/2 oz of simple syrup (optional).
  3. Combine Ingredients in the Shaker: Add all measured ingredients into the cocktail shaker.
  4. Add Ice: Fill the shaker with crushed ice to chill and mix the cocktail.
  5. Shake It Up: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well combined and chilled.
  6. Prepare Your Glass: Fill your serving glass with crushed ice.
  7. Strain the Mixture: Use a strainer to pour the cocktail mixture over the crushed ice in your prepared glass.
  8. Add the Dark Rum: Gently float the dark rum on top of the cocktail by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
  9. Add Mint Leaves: Slap a few fresh mint leaves between your hands to release their aroma and place them on top of the drink.
  10. Orange Slice: Cut a slice of orange and place it on the rim of the glass or float it on top.
  11. Maraschino Cherry: Add a maraschino cherry on top for a classic touch.
  12. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Mai Tai fresh, as the crushed ice will slightly melt, balancing the flavors.

Notes

  • Adjust the simple syrup to taste based on your sweetness preference.
  • For an extra tropical touch, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes