The Mai Tai recipe is a classic cocktail that instantly evokes sunnier days. Bright, citrusy, and lightly sweet with a hint of almond, it’s the kind of drink that feels festive yet is simple to prepare.
“This is one of my favorite go to cocktails when I want something that feels a little special but is still quick and easy to make.”
-Becky
This version of the Mai Tai is easy enough for weeknights but polished enough for guests. It doesn’t require obscure ingredients or advanced techniques — just good, fresh components and a few minutes of prep. The result is a balanced cocktail that showcases rum without being overly sweet.
If you’re building a party menu, consider pairing this Mai Tai with other fun drinks to offer variety. Classic shots and cocktails complement it well and make a lively spread.
Table of Contents
- What is a Mai Tai
- Mai Tai Ingredients
- Mai Tai Recipe Variations
- How to Make Mai Tai Cocktail
- Expert Tips
- Mai Tai Recipe FAQs
- More Party Cocktails
- Mai Tai Recipe
What is a Mai Tai
A Mai Tai is a classic rum cocktail that’s bright, citrus-forward, and refreshing. The traditional recipe highlights rum alongside fresh lime juice, orange curaçao (or similar orange liqueur), and orgeat syrup for a subtle almond note. The combination creates a balanced drink that’s neither cloyingly sweet nor overly tart.
The Mai Tai was popularized in the mid-20th century with an emphasis on letting the rum shine. While many modern variations add tropical fruit juices or flavored syrups, a well-made Mai Tai keeps the focus on balance and quality ingredients.
Mai Tai Ingredients
- white rum: Keeps the base light and clean.
- fresh lime juice: Prefer fresh-squeezed for the best brightness.
- orange curaçao (or Cointreau/Triple Sec): Adds classic citrus complexity.
- orgeat syrup: Provides the drink’s signature almond character.
- dark rum: Floated on top for a rich finish and visual contrast.
Optional garnishes and additions:
- Lime wedge, maraschino cherry, and fresh mint for garnish.
- Simple syrup (1/4–1/2 ounce) if you prefer a sweeter cocktail.
Full quantities and steps are included in the recipe card below.
Mai Tai Recipe Variations
- More tropical: Add a splash of orange or pineapple juice for fruitier notes.
- Richer rum blend: Combine white rum with Jamaican or other dark rums for added depth.
- Slight sweetness or color: A small dash of grenadine or additional simple syrup changes sweetness and appearance.
How to Make Mai Tai Cocktail
- Fill a short glass with crushed ice. Add white rum, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and orgeat syrup. Add simple syrup if you like it sweeter.
- Gently stir until the ingredients are chilled and combined—no need to overmix.
- Slowly float the dark rum on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon for a layered effect.
- Garnish with a lime wheel, a cherry, and a sprig of mint, then serve immediately.
Expert Tips
- Use fresh lime juice: It brightens the drink and improves balance.
- Don’t skip the orgeat: The almond flavor is essential to the classic profile.
- Prefer crushed ice: It chills quickly and helps hold the floated rum in place.
- Float the dark rum slowly: Pouring over a spoon prevents it from mixing into the base.
Mai Tai Recipe FAQs
A classic Mai Tai uses rum, fresh lime juice, orange curaçao (or similar orange liqueur), and orgeat syrup for a balanced citrus-and-almond flavor.
You can omit orgeat, but the cocktail will lack the distinctive almond character that defines a traditional Mai Tai.
White rum provides a clean base, while adding a Jamaican or aged rum brings extra depth and complexity.
A good Mai Tai is balanced rather than overly sweet. Adjust simple syrup to suit your preference.
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If you try this recipe, please consider leaving a star rating and a short comment to share your experience — feedback is always appreciated.
Recipe intended for adults 21 and over when alcohol is included. Please drink responsibly and follow local laws.
Mai Tai
Equipment
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Glass
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Flat Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 ounces white rum
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- 1/2 ounce orange liqueur, like Triple Sec
- 1/2 ounce orgeat
- 1/2 ounce dark rum, (or 1 ounce for a stronger float)
Optional: 1/2–1 ounce simple syrup, to taste.
Instructions
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Fill a short glass with crushed ice to chill and help the dark rum float.
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Pour white rum, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and orgeat over the ice. Add simple syrup if desired.
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Gently stir just until combined to preserve the layered look.
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Slowly pour dark rum over the back of a spoon so it floats on top.
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Garnish with a lime wheel and cherry, then serve immediately.
Video
Notes
Pour slowly for the float: Adding dark rum too quickly will cause it to mix with the base.
Fresh lime juice matters: Freshly squeezed juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Adjust sweetness: Add or skip simple syrup to suit your taste.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.