Are you a fan of Applebee’s Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we will guide you through recreating this delightful cocktail right in the comfort of your own home. Say goodbye to expensive bar tabs and hello to the joy of mixing your premium drinks. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your bartending skills as we unveil the secrets behind this classic drink.
What is a Long Island Iced Tea?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s briefly understand what makes a Long Island Iced Tea unique. Despite its name, this iconic cocktail doesn’t actually contain any tea. Instead, it’s a potent mix of five different spirits: vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec, all combined with a sour mix and a splash of cola. The result? It’s a deliciously boozy and refreshing drink that’s a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cocktail:
- 1/2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz rum
- 1/2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz tequila
- 1/2 oz triple sec
- 1 oz sour mix
- Cola (to top off)
- Lemon wedge (for garnish)
- Ice cubes
For the Sour Mix:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
Essential Equipment and Glassware
The right tools can make a world of difference in your mixology journey. Here are some essential items you’ll need:
- Tall Glass: A tall glass, such as a Collins glass, is ideal for presenting your Long Island Iced Tea. Its height allows for plenty of ice and garnishes.
- Cocktail Shaker: A cocktail shaker is essential for perfectly mixing the spirits, sour mix, and ice.
- Jigger: A jigger helps you measure the precise amounts of each spirit and sour mix, ensuring your cocktail is well-balanced.
- Long Stirring Spoon: A long stirring spoon lets you gently mix the cocktail without disturbing the layers.
Let’s Get Mixing
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to create your very own Applebee’s Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea.
1: Prepare the Sour Mix
- In a saucepan, combine water and granulated sugar.
- Cook the sugar in liquid over medium heat, stirring constantly until it dissolves, creating simple syrup.
- Once the syrup is heated, take it off the heat and allow it to cool down to room temperature.
- After cooling the syrup, mix in fresh lemon, lime, and orange juice to create a homemade sour mix.
- Transfer the sour mix to a container and refrigerate it until it’s chilled.
2: Assemble the Cocktail
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. You’ll want enough ice to chill the drink and keep it refreshing.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the following:
- 1/2 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz rum
- 1/2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz tequila
- 1/2 oz triple sec
- 1 oz of your homemade sour mix
- Secure the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds. This ensures that all the ingredients are well mixed and chilled.
- Strain the mixture from the shaker into the tall glass filled with ice. The ice will help maintain the drink’s temperature and dilute it slightly.
- Top off the cocktail with cola until it reaches the desired tea-like color. Pouring the cola gently over the back of a spoon can help maintain a layered appearance.
- Give the cocktail a gentle stir to ensure that all the flavors meld together harmoniously.
Garnishing for the Perfect Finish
A well-garnished cocktail looks appealing and enhances the overall drinking experience. Here’s how to garnish your Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea:
- Lemon Wedge: A classic garnish includes a lemon wedge. The citrusy aroma of the lemon complements the drink’s flavor.
- Long Stirring Spoon: Leave a long stirring spoon in the glass for guests to mix the layers as they prefer.
Variations and Creative Twists
While the classic Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea is a timeless favorite, don’t hesitate to get creative with variations:
1. Tropical Long Island Iced Tea
For a tropical twist, substitute some of the spirits with coconut rum or pineapple-infused vodka. Garnish with a pineapple slice for a taste of paradise.
2. Berry-Infused Variations
Berries can add a burst of flavor and color to your Long Island Iced Tea. Muddle some fresh berries or use berry-infused spirits to create fruity variations.
3. Unique Flavor Combinations
The beauty of this cocktail lies in its versatility. Experiment with different liqueurs, flavored syrups, or herbal infusions to create unique flavor combinations.
Pairing Your Long Island Iced Tea
Pairing your cocktail with the right food can elevate the entire experience:
1. Appetizers
- Crispy Calamari: The crispy texture of calamari pairs wonderfully with the cocktail’s refreshing qualities.
- Buffalo Wings: The spicy kick of buffalo wings complements the drink’s bold flavors.
- Loaded Nachos: The combination of cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream in loaded nachos balances the cocktail’s profile.
2. Main Courses
- Grilled Chicken: A well-seasoned grilled chicken dish harmonizes with the cocktail’s depth.
- Seafood: Seafood dishes, such as grilled shrimp or fish, offer a light and flavorful pairing.
- Steak: A juicy steak can provide a satisfying contrast to the cocktail’s complexity.
The Art of Presentation
Presentation is an essential aspect of mixology. Impress your guests with the following:
- High-quality glassware.
- Garnishes arranged with precision.
- Attention to the layering of colors.
- A confident and welcoming presentation.
Enjoy Your Homemade Delight
There you have it – your very own Applebee’s Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea! For that perfect finishing touch, garnish your cocktail with a lemon wedge. Now, sit back, relax, and savor the taste of a classic cocktail without ever leaving your home.
We’ve revealed the secrets behind creating Applebee’s Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea at home. Make this beloved cocktail easily with just a few simple steps and ingredients. Whether hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a well-deserved drink, this recipe allows you to capture the essence of Applebee’s in your kitchen.
So, raise your glass, make a toast to your newfound mixology skills, and savor every sip of your homemade Top Shelf Long Island Iced Tea. Cheers!
