Go Back

Mai Tai Recipe

The Mai Tai is a timeless island favorite, blending bright citrus with smooth rum and subtle almond sweetness.
This refreshing cocktail layers fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and orgeat syrup with light rum, then finishes with a rich dark rum float for depth and signature tropical flair.
Perfectly balanced and beautifully bold, the Mai Tai delivers classic tiki vibes in every sip.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: beverage
Cuisine: Polynesian
Calories: 178
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 ounces white rum
  • 1/2 ounce lime juice , freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 ounce orange curacao
  • 1/2 ounce orgeat syrup
  • ice
  • 3/4 ounce dark rum
  • Garnishes: maraschino cherry lime, pineapple, mint

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Measuring jigger
  • Strainer
  • Rocks glass or tiki glass
  • Ice scoop
  • Bar spoon (for floating rum)
  • Knife and cutting board (for garnishes)

Method
 

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to chill the drink.
  2. Add the white rum, fresh lime juice, orange curaçao, and orgeat syrup.
  3. Shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled and fully combined.
  4. Strain the drink into a glass filled with fresh ice.
  5. Slowly pour the dark rum over the top so it floats and creates a layered look.
  6. Garnish with a cherry, lime, pineapple, and fresh mint. Serve and enjoy.a little too sweet, that’s fine. Sip it anyway. You earned it.

Notes

The Mai Tai isn’t about perfection or rules. It’s about shaking something cold, pouring something pretty, and giving yourself a small break from real life.
If it’s a little too strong or a little too sweet, that’s fine. Sip it anyway. You earned it.