Long Island Iced Tea gets a vibrant and floral upgrade in this beautiful cocktail variation featuring hibiscus tea and cranberry juice. Often associated with its potent mix of five spirits, the classic Long Island Iced Tea is a bold drink that rarely plays it subtle. But with the infusion of deeply colored, tangy hibiscus and the tart brightness of cranberry, this twist transforms the old-school party drink into something more refined, elegant, and refreshingly balanced.
A Floral and Fruity Transformation
The hibiscus element not only contributes a vivid red hue that adds visual flair but also imparts a delicate floral tang that complements the strength of the spirits. Cranberry adds a tart contrast to the herbal notes, while lime juice sharpens the finish, and soda water lends a lively fizz. The result is a drink that hits all the right notes: sweet, tart, botanical, and bold, with just enough bubbles to lift the flavor.
Perfect for sipping in the sunshine or as a signature drink for a summer party, the Long Beach Iced Tea with a Hibiscus Twist proves that even the strongest cocktails can have a graceful side. Whether you’re serving it in highball glasses by the pool or pairing it with vibrant summer fare, this drink turns heads with both its looks and taste.
Why This Version Works
This recipe is also ideal for those looking to offer something different from the usual sugary punches or overly boozy classics. The addition of hibiscus tea, which is known for its antioxidant-rich properties and refreshing taste, makes the drink not only beautiful but a bit more sophisticated. The cranberry juice adds another layer of tartness, while also enhancing the vivid red color. And if you’re concerned about the strength of a traditional Long Island Iced Tea, this version is surprisingly smooth thanks to the dilution from the tea and soda.
Great for Entertaining
Another great thing about this cocktail is how easy it is to scale up for a crowd. You can mix up a pitcher without worrying too much about precision; just keep the proportions roughly the same, and you’ll be set. The soda water should always be added just before serving to keep the fizz fresh, and the garnish adds a great final touch—especially if you’re entertaining and want that Instagram-worthy presentation.
Make It a Moment
Planning to serve this cocktail at your next garden party or beachside gathering? Go all in with the theme. Think tropical music, floral decor, and maybe even a make-your-own-cocktail station where guests can choose between various fruit purees or garnishes to personalize their drinks. And if you want to pair it with food, spicy dishes work extremely well—think jerk chicken skewers, blackened fish tacos, or spicy shrimp.
You could also experiment with the base spirits. While vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec make up the classic Long Island formula, try swapping in flavored variations to further customize the flavor. A floral gin, for example, could highlight the hibiscus notes, or a citrus vodka could complement the cranberry and lime. Even the cranberry juice could be replaced with blood orange juice for a richer, deeper flavor.
Presentation Is Key
Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of presentation. A hibiscus flower floating on top or a sugar-rimmed glass can elevate the drink from tasty to unforgettable. Ice cubes made with hibiscus tea or citrus zest frozen inside are another way to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- ½ oz vodka
- ½ oz white rum
- ½ oz gin
- ½ oz tequila
- ½ oz triple sec
- 1 oz hibiscus tea (strongly brewed & chilled)
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- Splash of soda water or lemon-lime soda
- Ice
- Garnish: lime wheel or hibiscus flower
Preparation
Step 1: Fill a tall glass or shaker with ice.
Step 2: Add vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec, hibiscus tea, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
Step 3: Shake or stir well to combine and chill.
Step 4: Strain into an ice-filled highball or Collins glass.
Step 5: Top with a splash of soda water or lemon-lime soda for fizz.
Step 6: Garnish with a lime wheel or a hibiscus flower for flair.
Variation
- Mocktail Version: Omit alcohol and replace with hibiscus tea, cranberry juice, lime juice, and lemon-lime soda.
- Berry Boost: Add muddled raspberries or strawberries for extra fruity depth.
- Citrus Twist: Swap cranberry juice for blood orange juice for a deeper, richer taste.
- Frozen Version: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy version perfect for hot days.
- Sweeten It Up: Add a dash of honey syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink.
COOKING Note
- Use strongly brewed hibiscus tea for a more pronounced flavor and color.
- Chill all liquids beforehand to reduce dilution from ice.
- For a deeper hibiscus flavor, steep the tea for at least 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in tall glasses with colorful paper straws.
- Pair with spicy appetizers like jalapeño poppers or blackened shrimp.
- Ideal for cocktail hour, BBQs, or evening garden parties.
- Add edible flowers for a stunning visual effect.
- Serve in mason jars for a rustic, summery vibe.
Tips
- Adjust spirit ratios to suit taste or reduce strength.
- Add edible flowers or freeze hibiscus petals in ice cubes for a visual pop.
- For parties, pre-mix everything but soda and pour over ice to serve.
- Use clear ice cubes for a more polished presentation.
- For less bite, increase the soda or tea ratio.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 210
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 5mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use hibiscus syrup instead of tea?
A: Yes, just reduce or skip other sweeteners to avoid overpowering sweetness.
Q: What type of tequila is best?
A: Blanco (silver) tequila works best to keep the color and flavor balanced.
Q: Can I make a big batch?
A: Definitely! Scale up ingredients and combine in a pitcher. Add soda and ice just before serving.
Q: Can I use flavored spirits?
A: Yes, flavored gins or vodkas (like citrus or berry) can add a twist.
Q: Can I store the mix overnight?
A: Yes, mix everything except soda and keep it chilled. Add soda before serving.
Q: Can I use fresh hibiscus flowers?
A: You can, but make sure they are culinary-grade and properly prepared.
Conclusion
The Long Beach Iced Tea with a Hibiscus Twist is a stunning cocktail that delivers big on both flavor and presentation. Its vivid color and floral tartness elevate the classic formula into something refreshingly new and perfect for any festive gathering. Whether you’re mixing one for yourself or serving a crowd, this cocktail offers a memorable twist that feels equal parts tropical, botanical, and delightfully bold. It’s proof that even the strongest cocktails can sip like a summer breeze.
From its layered complexity to its eye-catching appearance, this drink captures the spirit of summer in every glass. Try it once, and you’ll understand why it’s destined to become a seasonal favorite. Cheers!
Print
Long Beach Iced Tea with a Hibiscus Twist
- Total Time: 5 min
Ingredients
Ingredients
- ½ oz vodka
- ½ oz white rum
- ½ oz gin
- ½ oz tequila
- ½ oz triple sec
- 1 oz hibiscus tea (strongly brewed & chilled)
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- Splash of soda water or lemon-lime soda
- Ice
- Garnish: lime wheel or hibiscus flower
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Fill a tall glass or shaker with ice.
Step 2: Add vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec, hibiscus tea, cranberry juice, and lime juice.
Step 3: Shake or stir well to combine and chill.
Step 4: Strain into an ice-filled highball or Collins glass.
Step 5: Top with a splash of soda water or lemon-lime soda for fizz.
Step 6: Garnish with a lime wheel or a hibiscus flower for flair.
Notes
- Use strongly brewed hibiscus tea for a more pronounced flavor and color.
- Chill all liquids beforehand to reduce dilution from ice.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Protein: 0g