Mai Tai (American/Tiki) – A Tropical Paradise in a Glass
A vibrant American/Tiki classic, the Mai Tai blends dark rum, white rum, citrus, and almond notes for a refreshing tropical escape in every sip. This guide walks you through making the perfect Mai Tai with simple steps and flavor variations.
Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
min
Serving
1
Difficulty
Easy
The Mai Tai is a cornerstone of mid-century American Tiki culture. Created in the 1940s, it became a symbol of escapism with its blend of rum, citrus, almond, and tropical aromatics. This version stays true to the classic structure while allowing room for creative twists.
Ingredients
- 2 oz dark rum
- 1 oz white rum
- 0.5 oz orange curaçao
- 0.5 oz orgeat syrup
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.25 oz simple syrup
- Crushed ice (as needed)
- Mint sprig, maraschino cherry, and lime slice for garnish
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 260
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Sugars: 16 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Alcohol: 28 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
Directions
1. Chill the Glass
- Fill a rocks glass with crushed ice to begin cooling the glass.
- This helps maintain the drink’s temperature once served.
2. Add Rums to the Shaker
- Pour the dark rum and white rum into a cocktail shaker.
- Using both types adds depth and balance to the cocktail.
3. Incorporate the Citrus Liqueur
- Add the orange curaçao.
- Its citrus aroma brightens the drink and complements the lime juice.
4. Add the Orgeat Syrup
- Pour in the orgeat syrup.
- This almond-based syrup provides the signature nutty sweetness of a classic Mai Tai.
5. Add Fresh Lime Juice
- Squeeze fresh lime juice directly into the shaker.
- Freshly squeezed lime is essential for proper acidity and balance.
6. Sweeten with Simple Syrup
- Add the simple syrup to round out the flavors.
- Adjust slightly to taste if you prefer sweeter or drier cocktails.
7. Add Ice and Shake
- Add a generous amount of ice to the shaker. Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until the outside becomes cold and frosty.
- This chills the drink and blends the flavors properly.
8. Prepare the Serving Glass
- Dump out the crushed ice that was chilling the rocks glass.
- This prevents excess dilution from leftover melting ice.
9. Strain the Cocktail
- Fill the now-chilled rocks glass with fresh crushed ice.
- Strain the shaken mixture over the ice.
- The crushed ice helps the Mai Tai maintain its refreshing, slushy texture.
10. Garnish
- Add a fresh mint sprig near the rim, place a maraschino cherry on top, and tuck a lime slice on the side of the glass.
- These garnishes enhance aroma and presentation.
11. Serve
- Serve immediately while cold.
- The flavors evolve slightly as the ice melts, balancing sweetness and acidity.
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