This post is sponsored by Florida’s Natural.
After a bit of a break from the holiday drink recipes (you may remember that I shared a new cocktail recipe every Saturday from the beginning of October until the end of December). I’m now getting back into creating these fun drinks. I’ve done a Spicy Cucumber Margarita, a Dirty Horchata, and a Fiery Golden Mango Tonic. You all seem to be having so much fun experimenting with these drinks that I decided to share a mid-week drink as well. With all that we have going on in the world why not have something to look forward to at the end of the day. And heck, Saturday’s not really much different than Monday, so let’s all enjoy this oh so pretty Mai Tai. It may just whisk you away to a tropical memory. I’ve had this idea for the longest time. I’m talking a couple of years, but for whatever reason, I just never got around to creating the recipe. Well, I finally changed that, and the only real bummer is that I didn’t share this recipe sooner. Not only is it easy to create, but it’s especially refreshing, a touch tangy, perfectly sweet, and oh so pretty. So, it’s all the things I love most.
Here are the details.
This fun Mai Tai starts with freshly brewed hibiscus tea, which gives it a slight floral tang and of course that pretty ruby red color. I like to steep the tea with a touch of honey. This helps to sweeten up the tea. Once the tea is brewed and chilled, the rest of this simple cocktail comes together in minutes… First, rim your glass in a little sea salt. I used Hawaiian pink sea salt for a tropical touch, but kosher salt works great too. This step is not traditional for a Mai Tai, but I found it adds the perfect salty touch and makes the drink extra special. Next, simply mix the chilled tea with Florida’s Natural® Brand Orange Juice, pineapple juice (make sure it has no added sugar), a squeeze of lime juice, and a mix of both light and dark rum for that true Mai Tai touch. Fill your glass with ice, and top with sparkling water…which is not traditional for a Mai Tai, but I’ve decided that cocktails are always made better with a splash of sparkling water. Nothing wrong with some bubbles, you know?
Now, let’s talk about the orange juice.
I love using Florida’s Natural® Brand Orange Juice because it’s made with only Florida oranges…no added sugars or artificial ingredients…just orange juice. I always keep OJ stocked in my fridge, especially these days when additional vitamin C is always a bonus. Plus, with OJ on hand, I’m able to mix up a quick cocktail, smoothie, or even simple dinner, any night of the week. It’s a “fridge staple” for me. Some of my favorite recipes include these fun tacos, this pretty salad and of course my favorite Moscow Mule.
Serving a crowd?
Not a problem. I’m giving you guys the recipes for both a single Mai Tai and also for Mai Tai punch. Perfect for upcoming spring and even summertime gatherings (thinking positively) with friends and family. Also, for garnishes, you can do a few things. I had some really pretty fresh thyme on hand, so I used a couple of sprigs to add a nice pop of green, spring-like color. You could also use a pineapple wedge, citrus zest, or go for the classic maraschino cherry, which comes with pretty much every Mai Tai. Any of these would be great! So what does everyone think? A fun Saturday night cocktail? Yes, Please. This one is simple and perfect…plus, these make me feel as though I’m sitting on a tropical beach deep in the Caribbean. Perfection.
If you make this orange hibiscus Mai Tai, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!
{This post is sponsored by Florida’s Natural. Thank you for supporting the brands that keep Half Baked Harvest cooking!}
