A Classic & Crushable Mai Tai Will Be Your Summer Cocktail Obsession

mai tai cocktail over crushed ice with a dark rum floater, maraschino cherry, lime, and mint garnish
Mai Tai CocktailPHOTO: NICO SCHINCO; FOOD STYLING: BROOKE CAISON

One sip of a refreshing and fruity mai tai, and I’m instantly transported to a sunny, sandy beach. Like any good tiki drink, these babies are strong and sneaky, so you won’t need much to get the party started. Serve these at a tiki-themed backyard bash, a weekend brunch, or when you had an extra long day at work. No matter the occasion, this classic cocktail brings the carefree summer vibes you crave.

Yields: 1 serving

Total Time: 5 mins

Ingredients

  • 1 oz.

    fresh lime juice

  • 1 oz.

    light rum

  • 3/4 oz.

    dry orange Curaçao, Cointreau, or triple sec

  • 3/4 oz.

    orgeat syrup

  • 1/2 oz.

    dark rum

  • Fresh mint leaves, lime wheel or wedge, and a Maraschino cherry, for serving

Directions

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add lime juice, light rum, Curaçao, and syrup and vigorously shake until outside of shaker is very frosty, about 20 seconds.

  2. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass. Slowly pour dark rum on top to float. Garnish with mint, a lime wheel, and a cherry.

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