The Perfect Mai Tai Recipe: Using Orgeat Syrup for Mai Tai Cocktails
Aug 31, 2025
Discover the perfect Mai Tai recipe using a key ingredient that makes all the difference: orgeat syrup for Mai Tai cocktails. We'll show you how to craft a truly delicious tiki drink using El Guapo™ Orgeat Syrup to achieve that classic nutty and floral flavor. This is a must-try recipe for any rum lover.
Why Use El Guapo™ Orgeat for Mai Tai?
Orgeat is an almond-based syrup with notes of orange flower water or rose water. It is an essential ingredient in a classic Mai Tai, as it provides a subtle sweetness and a distinct nutty flavor that balances the rum and lime juice. Using El Guapo™ Orgeat ensures you get a high-quality, authentic taste that will elevate your cocktail.
How to Make the Best Mai Tai
This recipe is simple to follow and delivers a high-quality, memorable cocktail every time.
Ingredients for Your Mai Tai
- 1 oz light rum
- 1 oz aged rum
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
- .5 oz orange curaçao
- .5 oz El Guapo™ Orgeat Syrup
- Edible flowers, mint, lime wheels, umbrellas for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a clean shaker filled with crushed ice, combine the light rum, aged rum, freshly squeezed lime juice, orange curaçao, and El Guapo™ Orgeat Syrup.
- Shake until well chilled.
- Pour the mixture unstrained into a lowball or tiki glass.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of mint. Add edible flowers or a cocktail umbrella as desired.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the orange curaçao?
Yes, you can substitute orange curaçao with triple sec, Cointreau, or Grand Marnier. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile.
Do I need to use two types of rum?
Using both a light rum and an aged rum provides a more complex flavor profile. The light rum offers a clean spirit base, while the aged rum adds notes of oak, spice, and molasses, which are essential to a classic Mai Tai.
What is the origin of the Mai Tai?
The Mai Tai is a classic tiki cocktail that was created in the 1940s. Its name reportedly comes from the Tahitian phrase "Maitaʻi roa aʻe," which means "the very best."