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Throwback Long Island Iced Tea

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The Throwback Long Island Iced Tea is a nostalgic nod to the carefree college nights where mixing what you had on hand was half the fun. This version skips the sour mix and leans on the crisp, citrusy fizz of 7-Up to lighten the mood—and the alcohol. A splash of Coke gives it that classic iced tea color, while the medley of spirits delivers the punch this cocktail is known for. Whether you’re reminiscing about old times or making new memories, this drink keeps the party vibe alive with every sip.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Single Serving

1/4 oz gin

1/2 oz vodka

1/2 oz white rum

1/2 oz triple sec

4 oz 7-Up (or to taste)

Splash of Coca-Cola (just enough to color)

Lemon wedge (for garnish)

Ice

Pitcher (Serves ~8)

2 oz gin

4 oz vodka

4 oz white rum

4 oz triple sec

32 oz 7-Up (or more to taste)

8 oz Coca-Cola (adjust for color preference)

Lemon slices for garnish

Ice

Instructions

Single Serving:

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice.

  2. Add gin, vodka, rum, and triple sec.

  3. Top with 7-Up.

  4. Add a splash of Coke until lightly colored.

  5. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon wedge.

Pitcher:

  1. In a large pitcher, combine gin, vodka, rum, and triple sec.

  2. Add the 7-Up and stir gently.

  3. Add Coke until the drink takes on a tea-like color.

  4. Add lemon slices and lots of ice.

  5. Stir gently before serving into ice-filled glasses.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve in a highball or Collins glass filled with crushed or cubed ice.

  • Garnish with a lemon wedge or lime wheel for a citrusy pop.

  • For an elevated look, rim the glass with citrus sugar or a salt-sugar mix.

🧂 Pairings

  • Bar snacks like nachos, spicy popcorn, or loaded fries.

  • Grilled fare: burgers, kebabs, or BBQ chicken.

  • Tex-Mex favorites: tacos, quesadillas, or Fiesta Citrus Guacamole with chips.

🌟 Flavor Variations

  • Citrus Kick: Add a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice.

  • Peach Tea Vibes: Swap 7-Up for peach-flavored sparkling water and add a peach wedge.

  • Tropical Twist: Add a dash of pineapple juice and garnish with mint.

❄️ Tips

  • Don’t go overboard with the Coke—just enough for color keeps it light and refreshing.

  • Chill your pitcher before guests arrive to keep it cool without watering it down.

  • Pre-slice lemon wedges and store in water with ice to keep them fresh for garnishing.

  • Use lower calorie version with diet soda or sparling flavored water.

FAQs

Q: Can I use diet soda?
Yes, swap in Diet 7-Up and Coke to lighten the sugar content.

Q: Is it very strong?
Yes—Long Island Iced Teas are known for packing a punch, even if they taste smooth.

Q: Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely! Multiply the recipe and store in a chilled dispenser with lemon wedges.

💙 Feeling nostalgic or ready to shake up the weekend? Whip up a batch of this college-classic Long Island Iced Tea and bring the party home! Don’t forget to tag @joyista when you pour your pitcher — we love seeing your spirited sips! #JoyInEveryGlass

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://joyistalife.com/recipe/throwback-long-island-iced-tea/