Long Island Iced Tea

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Long Island Iced Teas are a favorite go-to drink at bars & restaurants across Long Island, and the globe - they're delicious, and pack quite the punch!  

There's some dispute to the origins of the Long Island Iced Tea, however, many sources credit the drink's invention to Robert Butt,  who first concocted this creative cocktail in 1972 during a bar tending contest. Butt was bar tending at Oak Beach Inn, located right here on Long Island in Oak Beach, when he participated in the now infamous cocktail creation contest where the Long Island Iced Tea was born. Butt's high alcohol concoction became an immediate hit, and by the mid-1970s, nearly every bar on Long Island began serving up this Summer treat.

The Long Island Iced Tea has a much higher alcohol concentration than most mixed drinks (approximately 22%). It is created by combining five different alcohols and a splash of Coke, and a splash of sour mix, and  it's so popular is because it sure packs a punch!

Although this iced tea looks like one Mom would make on a hot Summer day, the Long Island Iced Tea is an adult-only beverage, so be sure to enjoy responsibly!

LongIsland.com's Official Long Island Iced Tea Recipe
Looking for the perfect cocktail to enjoy at the end of a long day, or to enjoy with friends or family for a special occasion? This Long Island Iced Tea Recipe fits the bill! Delicious, refreshing, and sure to pack a punch, the official drink of Long Island is one that you're sure to love. 

Estimated Preparation Time: 3-5 Minutes
Serves: 1
 
Ingredients
  • 1 (1.5 oz) jigger of Rum
  • 1 (1.5 oz) jigger of Vodka
  • 1 (1.5 oz) jigger of Triple Sec
  • 1 (1.5 oz) jigger of Gin
  • 1/2(.75 oz) jigger of Tequila
  • 1 (1.5 oz) jigger of Sour Mix
  • 1 Splash of Coca Cola (to taste)
  • 1 Slice of Lemon
  • 1 Maraschino Cherry (Optional)
  • Ice
Directions
  1. Fill cocktail shaker with ice.
  2. Add all liquors into shaker, followed by Sour Mix, and Splash of Coca Cola
  3. Replace lid on cocktail shaker, and shake the mixture vigorously, until frothy.
  4. Strain into a glass filled with ice (preferably a Collins Glass, as pictured), and garnish with lemon slice, and Maraschino Cherry (if desired).
As a refreshing alternative, use orange juice in place of sour mix, replace lemon with a slice of orange and you'll be transported to the West Coast - you've made a California Iced Tea!
 
Other Great Cocktail Recipes
 
We're partial to our iced tea, but we also know the value of mixing it up.  Check out some of these other delicious drinks and showcase your enhanced bartending skills at your next  get-together. 
 
In Need of Bartending Supplies? Find a local liquor store in your neighborhood!
 
Not a Big Fan of Bartending at Home? No Problem!
Find Out Where You Can Enjoy a Long Island Iced Tea Made by a Pro in our Nightlife Section, Bars & Lounges Section, or head over to our Restaurant Directory for great local eateries that serve up delicious drinks alongside good eats! Looking to celebrate something special with friends & family? Check out our Catering Halls Guide for all the best places to host parties here on Long Island!
 
Do you have a special twist that makes your Long Island Iced Tea Recipe Amazing?
Let us know, and we'll be sure to add your tip to our recipe guide!