Looking for a delicious summer cocktail that reminds you of beach vacations from the past? This recipe for a Mai Tai Cocktail is just what you need! If you’re having a pool party you’ll want to serve both this Mai Tai and my Rum Punch!
Why this recipe is a fave
There are numerous versions of the Mai Tai recipe out there. Some resemble a martini and others contain a considerable amount of grenadine. However you make it, it reminds you of warm summer breezes and waves crashing on the shore!
Expert Tips & FAQs
- I made my own orgeat syrup by boiling a tablespoon of water and tablespoon of almonds in 1/4 cup of water until they reduced to a thick syrup, but you can buy pre-made orgeat syrup (almond simple syrup) at any specialty grocer.
- If you are making these for a party, assemble garnishes ahead of time on cocktail picks and store in a plastic container in the fridge until ready to serve.
Ingredients you will need
- The only ingredient you may or may not have heard of is orgeat syrup. This is a simple syrup made from almonds. Check your local grocery store’s liquor department as it’s likely they have it.
- We use white rum for this recipe, Jamaican Rum would be great as well.
How to Make a Mai Tai
These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. Please scroll down to simply print out the recipe!
- Add ice to a cocktail shaker and fill a rock glass halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour all the liquid ingredients into the cocktail shaker.
- Shake for ten seconds and strain over ice in rock glass.
- Garnish with cherries and pineapple on a cocktail pick.
You can serve this drink with or without a straw. We think a colorful straw and a cocktail umbrella is more fun!
More Cocktail Recipes You Will Love
- If there was ever a cocktail that belonged by the pool it’s the classic Pina Colada! Perfect for summer.
- Another summertime favorite is this Blue Mermaid Cocktail, begging to accompany you to the beach or poolside!
- This refreshing and frothy drink will remind you of your favorite coffee house treat. Be sure to try this Kahlua Frappuccino.
- This Rum Punch Cocktail comes straight from the Caribbean – and each island seems to have its own version of this classic cocktail.
- I found this Wine & Whiskey Cocktail and am dying to try it!
- Are you a fan of tropical cocktails? If so, be sure to check out our list of over 30 summer alcoholic drinks!
- This Blue Hawaiian Mai Tai cocktail a fruity blend of two popular tropical drinks and is perfect for summer, pool parties, and cookouts!
- The Blue Lagoon Cocktail is a citrusy 3 ingredient summertime drink that’s fun to sip on poolside or on the patio.
- Need a refreshing, tropical drink this summer? A Coconut Mojito is fun to make, only needs a few ingredients, and is perfect for a hot day!
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Mai Tai Cocktail
IMPORTANT - There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It Rate ItIngredients
- 1.5 oz white or Jamaican rum
- .5 oz Triple sec
- 2 oz orange juice
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons orgeat syrup
Optional garnishes
- Maraschino cherries with stem
- Pineapple wedge
Things You'll Need
Before You Begin
- You can make your own orgeat syrup by boiling a tablespoon of water and tablespoon of almonds in 1/4 cup of water until they reduced to a thick syrup. You can also buy pre-made orgeat syrup (almond simple syrup) at any specialty grocer.
- If you are making these for a party, assemble garnishes ahead of time on cocktail picks and store in a plastic container in the fridge until ready to serve.
Instructions
- Add ice to a cocktail shaker and fill a rock glass halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour all the liquid ingredients into the cocktail shaker. Shake for ten seconds and strain over ice in rock glass.
- Garnish with cherries and pineapple on a cocktail pick.
Nutrition
Amanda Davis
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George Hooch says
Nope. Not a mai tai. The lack of balance here would be egregious. If you want to drink sugary stuff and juice, just have some Sunny D. If you want some alcohol in it, spike the Sunny D with Vodka. Cheaper and easier.
Dug says
Sorry, this isn’t a Mai tai