But why settle for just one? We suggest trying all Long Island Iced Teas on this list to enjoy flavor variations. Other than the spirits and the all-important splash of Coke (glass bottle—full sugar is a must here), most bartenders utilize a sour mix to add a dose of acid. You could use a mix of simple syrup and fresh lemon juice if you’re looking to keep things simple, but a homemade sour mix with fresh squeezed lemon, lime, and grapefruit juice adds a bit more complexity that takes this drink up several notches. A store-bought sour mix will work in a pitch, but we highly recommend making the homemade version for the extra-fresh flavors.

Long Island Iced Tea | Taste of Home How to Make Long Island Iced Tea | Taste of Home

So, go get your glass, pour the drink, and splash some garnishes for an ultimate sipping experience! Shake the liquors and sour mix, strain it into a glass with fresh ice, then top it with cola. This approach adds dilution and creates a mellower flavor that's rather pleasant. Why We Like It: Desert Island simplifies Long Island preparation. Adding cola to this pre-made mixture makes it a breeze to enjoy this classic drink. Served with icicles on your glass, it’s a perfect mixture for relishing the iconic taste without the need for mixing. 4. Largo Bay Long Island Ice TeaTo brew the tea, use 1 cup of freshly boiled water and let the tea leaves steep for 3-5 minutes. Strain the leaves and add sugar to your hot tea. Set aside to cool completely. Pour the liquid through a strainer into a pitcher, then top with cola. Just give it a brief swirl to end.

Coppa Cocktails Ready-to-Drink Long Island Iced Tea | Easy

No need to go to any bar establishment to sip this refreshing drink. Our bartender friend suggested adding sweet-and-sour-mix and cola, and trust us, it’s delicious! 8. TGI Friday’s Long Island Iced Tea Summertime is an ideal time to serve the Long Island Iced Tea, because its taste is reminiscent of iced tea even though there’s no tea in it at all. This drink is best served ice cold so try making up the sugar and lemon mix beforehand and storing it in your fridge. For a fruitier bounty, swap out the Cola for genuine iced tea.To make it a bit stronger (without going overboard), try 3/4 ounce each of the four liquors (gin, light rum, vodka, and blanco tequila) and 1/2 ounce each of triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup (or 1 ounce sour mix for the last two). This version has a total of 3 3/4 ounces of liquor and an alcohol content of 20 percent ABV (40 proof).