Mai Tai (Trader Vic’s) Cocktail Recipe – If you’re craving a cocktail that instantly transports you to a beachside tiki bar, the Mai Tai (Trader Vic’s) Cocktail Recipe is your go-to tropical indulgence. A timeless drink born from mid-20th-century tiki culture, this cocktail blends aged rum, lime juice, orange liqueur, and a dash of almond-rich orgeat syrup for a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and strong.
Originally created in 1944 by Victor J. “Trader Vic” Bergeron, the Mai Tai wasn’t designed to be overly sweet. Instead, it highlights the complexity of quality rum and exotic ingredients, creating a bold, refreshing drink that’s endured for decades. Whether you’re a home mixologist or a curious enthusiast, this authentic recipe pays homage to its roots and offers an unforgettable flavor experience.
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Active Time: 5 minutes
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Resting Time: 0 minutes
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Total Time: 5 minutes
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Cuisines: Polynesian, Caribbean, American Tiki
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Course: Beverage / Cocktail / Drink
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Servings: 1
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Calories: Approx. 210 kcal per serving
Equipment Needed
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Cocktail shaker
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Jigger or measuring tools
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Rocks glass or old-fashioned glass
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Bar spoon (optional, for float)
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Ice crusher (or crushed ice from bag)
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Citrus juicer (manual or electric)
Ingredients
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2 oz aged Jamaican rum
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1/2 oz fresh lime juice
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1/2 oz orange curaçao
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1/4 oz orgeat syrup
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1/4 oz simple syrup
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Crushed ice
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Mint sprig & lime shell (for garnish)
Instructions
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Chill your glass: Start by placing a rocks glass or old-fashioned glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill.
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Shake the ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine aged rum, lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat syrup, and simple syrup. Add crushed ice (about 1 cup).
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Shake vigorously: Shake for about 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
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Strain and pour: Discard ice from the serving glass. Pour the mixture, including crushed ice, into the glass.
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Garnish: Add a mint sprig, a spent lime shell (for an island look), or a cherry on top.
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Serve immediately and sip while chilled.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 11 g |
| Sugars | 9 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sodium | 3 mg |
| Alcohol | ~18–20% ABV |
Tips for the Perfect Mai Tai
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Use fresh lime juice – It makes a world of difference over bottled juice.
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Orgeat matters – Choose a high-quality or homemade orgeat for that authentic almond flavor.
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Avoid bottled sour mix – This isn’t a neon beach cocktail—it’s a balanced tiki masterpiece.
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Chill the glass – Ensures your crushed ice doesn’t dilute the drink too fast.
Conclusion
The Mai Tai (Trader Vic’s) Cocktail Recipe is a timeless tropical treasure that every cocktail enthusiast should know. With its roots steeped in tiki tradition, this balanced blend of aged rum, lime, curaçao, and orgeat syrup delivers sophistication in every sip. Whether you’re relaxing on your patio or throwing a luau-themed party, this drink is your passport to paradise.
