The Mai Tai is a classic tiki cocktail that brings a taste of the tropics to your glass. With its perfect balance of rum, citrus, and sweet almond flavors, this drink is a refreshing escape to a beachside paradise. Whether you're hosting a summer party or just looking to unwind, the Mai Tai is sure to impress.
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every household. Orgeat syrup is a sweet almond syrup that adds a unique flavor to the drink and may require a trip to a specialty store or the international aisle of your supermarket. Orange curaçao is a type of orange-flavored liqueur that can usually be found in the liquor section.

Ingredients For Mai Tai Recipe
White rum: A light and clear rum that forms the base of the cocktail.
Dark rum: Adds depth and complexity with its rich, molasses-like flavor.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed to provide a bright, tangy contrast.
Orgeat syrup: A sweet almond syrup that adds a unique nutty flavor.
Orange curaçao: An orange-flavored liqueur that brings a hint of citrus.
Simple syrup: A mixture of sugar and water that adds sweetness to balance the drink.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing a Mai Tai, ensure that the lime juice is freshly squeezed for the best flavor. Using bottled juice can compromise the drink's brightness and acidity. Additionally, when shaking the ingredients, make sure to shake vigorously for at least 10-15 seconds to properly chill and dilute the mixture, which helps to balance the strong flavors of the rums and orgeat syrup. Finally, when garnishing, gently slap the mint sprig between your hands before placing it in the glass to release its aromatic oils, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the cocktail.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
white rum - Substitute with vodka: Vodka has a neutral flavor that can mimic the lightness of white rum in cocktails.
dark rum - Substitute with aged tequila: Aged tequila has a similar depth and complexity, providing a rich flavor profile.
freshly squeezed lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though slightly different in taste.
orgeat syrup - Substitute with almond extract and simple syrup: Almond extract mixed with simple syrup can replicate the nutty sweetness of orgeat syrup.
orange curaçao - Substitute with triple sec: Triple sec is another orange-flavored liqueur that can provide a similar citrusy sweetness.
simple syrup - Substitute with honey syrup: Honey syrup (honey mixed with water) can add sweetness with a slight floral note.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cocktail
How to Store / Freeze This Cocktail
- To keep your Mai Tai fresh and delicious, store any leftover mixture in an airtight container. Glass bottles or jars work best to maintain the integrity of the rum and other ingredients.
- Refrigerate the stored Mai Tai mixture. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a good shake to mix any settled ingredients.
- If you want to prepare the Mai Tai in advance, mix all the ingredients except the lime juice and crushed ice. Store this base mixture in the refrigerator. Add the lime juice and crushed ice just before serving to ensure the freshest taste.
- For freezing, pour the Mai Tai mixture (excluding lime juice and crushed ice) into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to thaw only the amount you need.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the Mai Tai cubes in the refrigerator. Add freshly squeezed lime juice and serve over crushed ice.
- Always garnish with a fresh lime wheel and mint sprig just before serving to maintain the vibrant presentation and flavor.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Pour the Mai Tai into a heat-resistant glass or mug.
- Place the glass in a microwave and heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can alter the flavors.
- Alternatively, pour the Mai Tai into a small saucepan and gently warm over low heat on the stove. Stir occasionally and remove from heat once it reaches the desired temperature.
- For a more controlled reheating, use a double boiler. Fill the bottom pot with water and place the Mai Tai in the top pot. Heat gently until warm, stirring occasionally.
- If you prefer a cold Mai Tai, simply add fresh crushed ice and stir well to refresh the drink.
Best Tools for Crafting This Drink
Shaker: Used to mix all the ingredients thoroughly with ice.
Ice: Essential for chilling the drink and diluting it slightly to balance flavors.
Strainer: Helps to pour the mixed drink into the glass while keeping the ice and any solid ingredients out.
Glass: Typically a rocks glass or a tiki mug, used to serve the Mai Tai.
Crushed ice: Fills the glass to keep the drink cold and provide a refreshing texture.
Jigger: A measuring tool to ensure precise amounts of each ingredient are used.
Lime wheel: A garnish that adds a visual appeal and a hint of citrus aroma.
Mint sprig: Another garnish that adds a fresh, aromatic touch to the drink.
How to Save Time on Making This Cocktail
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use bottled lime juice: If you're in a hurry, opt for high-quality bottled lime juice instead of squeezing fresh limes.
Batch simple syrup: Make a large batch of simple syrup and store it in the fridge for future use.
Pre-crush ice: Crush your ice in advance and store it in the freezer to save time during assembly.
Organize your bar tools: Keep your shaker, strainer, and other tools organized and within reach.

Mai Tai Recipe
Ingredients
Mai Tai Ingredients
- 1 oz White rum
- 1 oz Dark rum
- 0.5 oz Lime juice freshly squeezed
- 0.5 oz Orgeat syrup
- 0.5 oz Orange curaçao
- 0.25 oz Simple syrup
Instructions
- 1. Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice.
- 2. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
- 3. Garnish with a lime wheel and mint sprig.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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