A classic Mai Tai just can’t be beat for its refreshing, tropical flavors! This easy Mai Tai recipe includes rum, fresh lime juice, sweet and citrusy orange liqueur and orgeat syrup. Together they combine to make a unique cocktail perfect for unwinding this weekend or for serving at your next party.
Looking for a fun refresh? Make sure to try my Midori Sour recipe or this Pineapple Margarita for your next weekend wind down!
Mai Tai Recipe
Whether you’re looking to cool off during the hot summer months or are simply dreaming of beaches during the dead of winter, this Mai Tai drink will transport you instantly to that summer fantasy.
I love a classic cocktail recipe and this Mai Tai is no exception. The combination of white and dark rum, lime and orange creates a tropical explosion of flavor like no other. Whether you’re planning a pool party or setting up your own backyard Mai Tai bar, this recipe is a must make this summer.
Fun Fact
Typically associated with tiki bars and Hawaiian resorts, this Mai Tai drink was actually invented in California… Or so the story goes. The original cocktail is claimed to have been invented in the 1940’s as a simple drink to showcase the flavors in Jamaican rum. It’s rumored that the drink became so popular in the 40’s and 50’s that it actually depleted the world rum supplies at the time!
Over the years, the classic Mai Tai was sweetened to appease tourists and it has taken on several variations since then. But a classic is a classic, and the real recipe is simply too iconic not to share.
Why I Love This Mai Tai Recipe
I love this cocktail because…
- It’s so unique. The nutty flavor of the orgeat syrup is something that can’t be replaced. It’s not too sweet but it is a strong drink. Perfect for switching up all the sticky sweet pineapple based drinks typically associated with rum and tiki bars.
- It’s a crowd pleaser. This cocktail can easily be made into a large batch for those summertime get togethers or Hawaiian themed parties! A fun Mai Tai bar would so amazing for summer parties.
- Tropical flavors can’t be beat. I love the tropical flavors in this cocktail and the Mai Tai ingredients list is short and easy to find at your local grocery store.
Mai Tai Ingredients
This recipe may seem complex but the unique flavors and special Mai Tai ingredients really set this libation above the rest. No tiki bar necessary (but may be encouraged). What’s in a Mai Tai? Let’s take a quick look and, as always, you can find the full printable recipe card at the end of this post:
- rum – You’ll need both white and dark rum for this drink.
- lime juice – Freshly squeezed is best.
- orange curacao – Triple sec or Grand Marnier can act as substitutes for the orange curacao.
- orgeat syrup – This gives the drink a nutty flavor with a hint of citrus.
- garnishes – Maraschino cherries, lime slices or wedges, pineapple chunks or wedges, and mint.
- ice – To chill everything.
Garnishes are what really take any cocktail to the next level. This Mai Tai cocktail can handle a lot of garnish so don’t skimp here!
How To Make A Mai Tai
Planning a seriously amazing pool party? Fantasizing over a backyard Mai Tai bar? Ground that fantasy in a little bit of reality with this deliciously refreshing Mai Tai recipe.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in the white rum, lime juice, orange curacao, and orgeat syrup. Shake vigorously to combine.
- Pour this mixture into a glass over ice. Slowly pour the dark rum over top so that it creates a floating layer. Garnish with a maraschino cherry, lime, pineapple, and mint.
- Sit back, sip, and enjoy!
For a tropical twist with a coconut flair, use your favorite coconut rum in this recipe.
Recipe Variations
There is no wrong way to enjoy a Mai Tai! Try this classic version once and then mix it up with these tasty variations:
- While I highly recommend fresh lime juice, you can use Rose’s Sweetened Lime Juice for a sweeter version. Use one to two teaspoons depending on your desired level of sweetness.
- Try adding a tablespoon or so of fresh squeezed orange juice for a touch of sweetness.
- You can use Grand Marnier or triple sec in place of the orange curacao.
Storage Information
This cocktail recipe is best enjoyed fresh. I don’t recommend storing for a prolonged period of time. It’s best to be made and enjoyed immediately.
FAQs
Easily make a whole round of this Mai Tai cocktail for a crowd. Simply add the ingredients (chilled) to a pitcher or punch bowl (simply multiply the ingredients by the number or servings you want, for example, 8.) When ready to serve, pour the punch into individual glasses, float the dark rum over top, garnish, and enjoy!
When it comes to taste, unfortunately there isn’t a great substitute. Of course you can still make the drink without it, but it won’t be a true Mai Tai drink. The nutty flavor solidifies the recipe and pairs perfectly with the rum. However, the orgeat syrup shouldn’t be too hard to find and isn’t expensive. Most larger wine and spirit stores will have it and it can easily be ordered online.
Trish’s Tips and Tricks
- For an added punch, mix gold and light rum in the base of the drink before floating the dark rum on top. This drink was originally created to showcase the flavors in rum, the traditional recipe is quite strong.
- For a coconut version, use coconut rum as your base.
- High quality rum really does make a difference in this recipe since the drink is mostly spirits.
More Cocktails You’ll Love
- Vodka Cranberry Cocktail
- Basil Lemon Drop
- Espresso Martini
- Pineapple Margarita
- Pineapple Strawberry Mojito
- Midori Sour
How To Make A Mai Tai
Mai Tai Recipe (Classic Cocktail)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounces white rum
- ½ ounce lime juice fresh squeezed
- ½ ounce orange curacao or Grand Marnier or triple sec or orange liqueur
- ½ ounce orgeat syrup
- ice
- ¾ ounce dark rum
- Garnishes: maraschino cherry lime, pineapple, mint
Instructions
- Pour the white rum, fresh lime juice, orange curacao and the orgeat syrup into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously.1 ½ ounces white rum, ½ ounce lime juice, ½ ounce orange curacao, ½ ounce orgeat syrup, ice
- Pour rum mixture over ice in a glass. Slowly pour the dark rum so it floats on top. (Pour over a spoon to easily layer the dark rum.)¾ ounce dark rum
- Add garnishes of maraschino cherry, limes, pineapple, and mint. (optional)Garnishes: maraschino cherry
Juan says
I would just add more orgeat syrup to at least
3/4 oz – 1 oz total for me and my wife’s taste.
Super tasty.