The Long Beach Tea Cocktail is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing drink that blends the refreshing qualities of an iced tea cocktail with the bright, tropical notes of cranberry juice. A close cousin of the famous Long Island Iced Tea, this cocktail swaps the cola for cranberry juice, giving it a fruity twist that is both colorful and delicious. Popular in bars and beach parties alike, the Long Beach Tea offers a smooth yet potent punch. It’s the perfect drink to sip poolside, enjoy during summer gatherings, or toast with friends when you want something a little different but just as satisfying as the classic iced tea cocktail.

Why Is This Recipe So Popular?

The Long Beach Tea Cocktail has earned its popularity because:

???? It’s a fruity, refreshing alternative to the traditional Long Island Iced Tea
???? The cranberry juice adds a tangy twist with a beautiful pink-red color
???? Multiple liquors combine for a balanced but strong cocktail
???? Great for parties, beach days, or casual get-togethers
???? Easy to make with simple, common ingredients
???? Perfect for summer and warm weather drinking
???? Looks stunning in a tall glass with a citrus garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

???? Deliciously balanced flavors of sweet, tart, and strong
???? Bright, refreshing, and visually appealing
???? Ready in under 10 minutes—quick to make for crowds
???? Versatile cocktail that pairs well with many dishes
???? Can be easily customized by swapping citrus juices or soda
???? Ideal for serving over plenty of ice
???? Fun and festive for any occasion, especially outdoor events

Ingredients:

These ingredients come together to form a powerhouse of flavor:

???? 1/2 oz vodka
???? 1/2 oz gin
???? 1/2 oz light rum
???? 1/2 oz tequila
???? 1/2 oz triple sec (orange liqueur)
???? 2 oz cranberry juice (fresh or bottled)
???? 1 oz fresh lemon juice
???? Splash of simple syrup (or to taste)
???? Ice cubes
???? Lemon wheel or wedge, for garnish
???? Mint sprig (optional) for garnish

Preparation:

Step 1: Fill a tall glass with ice
Start by filling a highball or Collins glass with plenty of ice cubes to chill your cocktail properly.

Step 2: Add the spirits
Pour in ½ oz each of vodka, gin, light rum, tequila, and triple sec over the ice.

Step 3: Add the juices
Add 2 oz of cranberry juice and 1 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Step 4: Sweeten the mix
Add a splash of simple syrup to balance the tartness. Adjust sweetness according to your taste.

Step 5: Stir gently
Use a long spoon or cocktail stirrer to mix all the ingredients well without diluting the ice.

Step 6: Garnish and serve
Garnish with a lemon wheel or wedge on the rim of the glass. Add a sprig of fresh mint for extra aroma and flair.

Variation:

???? Berry Long Beach: Add muddled fresh raspberries or blackberries for extra fruit flavor.
???? Tropical Twist: Swap lemon juice for fresh lime and add pineapple juice instead of cranberry.
???? Low-Alcohol Version: Reduce the amount of spirits and increase cranberry juice for a lighter cocktail.
???? Sparkling Splash: Top with club soda or lemon-lime soda for fizz.
???? Honey Sweetened: Use honey syrup instead of simple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
????️ Spicy Kick: Add a few drops of jalapeño tincture or muddle a small slice of jalapeño in the glass.

COOKING Note:

No actual cooking here, but to make a perfect Long Beach Tea:

Use fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors
Ensure all spirits are measured precisely for balanced taste
Stir gently to avoid too much dilution from melting ice
Use chilled cranberry juice and soda for the freshest, coolest experience
Garnish thoughtfully—fresh fruit and herbs elevate the drinking experience

Serving Suggestions:

???? Serve alongside light appetizers like shrimp cocktail, ceviche, or finger sandwiches
???? Pair with mild cheeses and fresh fruit platters for a summer gathering
???? Complement fresh salads and grilled chicken for a refreshing meal
???? Make it a signature cocktail for summer BBQs, pool parties, or beach getaways
???? Serve in tall glasses with colorful straws and umbrellas for festive vibes

Tips:

???? Always use fresh-squeezed lemon juice for the best taste
???? Don’t skimp on ice—it keeps the cocktail cold and balanced
???? Use high-quality cranberry juice without added sugar for a clean flavor
???? Adjust the simple syrup based on your preferred sweetness level
???? Add a splash of orange juice for a slightly sweeter twist
???? Fresh mint or basil leaves can add a refreshing herbal note when muddled lightly
???? Measure spirits carefully to avoid overpowering flavors

Prep Time:

5 minutes

Mixing Time:

3 minutes

Total Time:

8 minutes

Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving):

Calories: 220
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 5mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugars: 15g
Fat: 0g
Alcohol Content: Approximately 18-20%

FAQs:

Q: Can I make the Long Beach Tea ahead of time?
A: You can mix the juices and simple syrup ahead but add the spirits and ice just before serving.

Q: Is it similar to Long Island Iced Tea?
A: Yes, but the Long Beach Tea uses cranberry juice instead of cola, giving it a fruitier flavor and a pinkish color.

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.

Q: What glass is best?
A: A tall Collins or highball glass is ideal to hold the volume and ice.

Q: Can I add soda or tonic water?
A: Yes, topping with club soda or lemon-lime soda adds fizz and lightens the drink.

Conclusion:

The Long Beach Tea Cocktail is a vibrant, refreshing take on the classic iced tea cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bright cranberry twist, balanced mix of spirits, and easy preparation, it’s no wonder this drink has become a favorite for summer parties, beach days, and casual gatherings alike. Whether you’re a cocktail novice or a seasoned mixologist, the Long Beach Tea delivers a satisfying punch of flavor, color, and fun in every sip.

So next time you want to impress your guests or cool down on a warm day, whip up a batch of these tropical delights and raise your glass to good times and great taste!