Black Tea Infused Mai Tai Cocktail Recipe!

The classic Mai Tai, a vibrant mix of rum, lime, orgeat, and orange curaçao, is a staple of tiki culture, celebrated for its balance of sweet, sour, and nutty flavors. Infusing it with black tea adds depth, while introducing a rich and bitter note that complements the cocktail’s tropical essence.

A Black Tea Infused Mai Tai is perfect for late afternoon or early evening, especially during summer or warm, breezy days. It’s ideal for sipping at a beachside gathering, a backyard barbecue, or while unwinding after a long day. The infusion brings a sophisticated twist, making it a great choice for those who appreciate both the classic Mai Tai and the boldness of black tea. Here’s the recipe:

Black Tea Infused Mai Tai Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

For Black Tea Infusion:

• 2 oz dark rum
• 1 tbsp loose black tea (or 1 black tea bag)

For Mai Tai:

• 1 oz black tea-infused dark rum
• 1 oz light rum
• 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz orgeat syrup (almond syrup)
• 1/2 oz orange curaçao
• 1/4 oz simple syrup
• Crushed ice

For Garnish:

• Mint sprig
• Lime wheel or wedge
• Maraschino cherry (optional)
• Edible dried flowers in different colours (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Black Tea Infusion:

• In a small jar or container, combine the dark rum and black tea.
• Let it infuse for at least 2 hour, but ideally for 24 hours. The longer the more robust the taste.
• If using loose tea, strain the mixture to remove the tea leaves. If using a tea bag, simply remove the bag.
• Set aside the infused rum.

2. Make the Mai Tai:

• In a shaker, combine 1 oz of the black tea-infused dark rum, light rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, orange curaçao, and simple syrup.
• Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.

3. Serve:

• Fill a glass with crushed ice.
• Strain the mixture from the shaker into the glass.
• Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wheel, and a maraschino cherry and edible dried flowers if desired.

Enjoy your Black Tea Infused Mai Tai! This cocktail offers a unique twist on the classic with the boldness of black tea complementing the tropical flavors.