Texas Tea Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Whisky
Alcohol 22%
Calories 350 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 22g
Prep time 3 minutes

Imagine you’re sitting on a porch in the heart of Texas, the sun setting in a blaze of oranges and reds, and in your hand, the perfect Texas Tea cocktail. This drink takes you on a journey of flavors, from the sweetness of cola to the punch of multiple spirits, and is crowned with a squeeze of fresh citrus. Let’s dive into the history, taste, and art of creating this iconic southern beverage, and together, we’ll uncover the secrets to its bold character. Ready to mix like a pro? Let’s get started! ⬇️

History

The Texas Tea cocktail, often associated with the American South, echoes the grand tradition of iced tea but with a boozy twist. It gained popularity for its strong kick and easy-drinking nature, capturing the spirit of Texas hospitality. While its exact origins are murky, its presence is a staple at gatherings where a touch of Southern comfort is desired.

• The name “Texas Tea” humorously refers to the state’s oil history, as the drink’s dark color resembles crude oil.
• It’s said that the cocktail became famous in the 1970s, during a time of flourishing American cocktail culture.
• Despite its name, the Texas Tea cocktail has no actual tea in it; it’s a playful nod to its Southern roots.

The taste of a Texas Tea?

A sip of Texas Tea is like a lively dance on your taste buds—sweet, sour, and a bit boozy all at once. The flavors blend together seamlessly, with the cola providing sweetness, the spirits a complex depth, and the citrus a refreshing zing.

I have a soft spot for Texas Tea because it tells a story in every glass. It’s like a liquid ode to the boldness and warmth of the Lone Star State.

Interesting facts about Texas Tea

• Although called “tea,” this cocktail is more akin to a Long Island Iced Tea in its concoction of spirits and mixers.
• The Texas Tea can be adapted to include local Texan liquors, making it a true representation of the state’s diverse spirits industry.
• This cocktail has been featured in songs and pop culture, often symbolizing a carefree, spirited lifestyle.

Ingredients 📃

• Vodka: 0.5 oz (15ml)
• Gin: 0.5 oz (15ml)
• Rum: 0.5 oz (15ml)
• Tequila: 0.5 oz (15ml)
• Triple sec: 0.5 oz (15ml)
• Cola: 1-2 oz (30-60ml)
• Lemon juice: 0.5 oz (15ml)
• Ice cubes

A highball glass is the ideal vessel for a Texas Tea, its tall stature allowing ample room for ice and mixers, enhancing the beverage’s refreshing qualities. An alternative would be a mason jar, which adds a touch of rustic charm and nods to the cocktail’s Southern origins.

Recipe. How to make Texas Tea 🍹

1. Add ice cubes to fill a highball glass.
2. Pour in 0.5 oz (15ml) each of vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec.
3. Squeeze in 0.5 oz (15ml) of fresh lemon juice.
4. Top with 1-2 oz (30-60ml) of cola and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a lemon wedge or slice before serving.

While Texas Tea is a treat, it’s also high in sugar and calories, mainly from the sweet mixers. For a healthier twist, use natural sweeteners like agave or reduce the amount of cola. Some ingredients, like lemon juice, offer vitamin C, but moderation is key due to the alcohol content.

Food Pairings

The bold flavors of a Texas Tea call for dishes that can stand up to its character. Here are some foods that pair beautifully with this cocktail:

Barbecue

The smoky and savory notes of Texas-style barbecue are a match made in heaven with the sweet and tangy profile of a Texas Tea. The drink helps cut through the richness of the meat.

Spicy Appetizers

Spicy dishes, like jalapeño poppers, complement the Texas Tea’s sweetness and help balance its strong flavors with their heat.

Citrus-Based Desserts

For a sweet finish, citrus-based desserts like lemon bars or key lime pie echo the cocktail’s zesty notes and cleanse the palate.

I adore the Texas Tea’s perfect balance of boldness and charm, making it the ideal companion to lively conversations and hearty laughs.

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Bartender Advice

• Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
• Chill the glass beforehand to keep the drink cool longer without diluting it too quickly.
• Experiment with the cola-to-spirit ratio to find the perfect balance for your taste.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Texas Tea, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Texas Tea

• Cola: Use a diet or zero-calorie version for a lighter drink.
• Lemon juice: Can be swapped with lime for a tangy twist.
• Triple sec: Replace with another orange liqueur like Cointreau for a slightly different flavor.

Texas Tea Variations

Texas Peach Tea

• Ingredients: Add peach schnapps to the classic recipe.
• Recipe: Mix as usual and garnish with a fresh peach slice.

Spicy Texas Tea

• Ingredients: Include a dash of hot sauce or a slice of jalapeño.
• Recipe: Build as normal, adding the spicy element and stirring well.

Tex-Mex Tea

• Ingredients: Add a splash of fresh lime juice and a pinch of cumin.
• Recipe: Shake the ingredients well and serve over ice with a salted rim.

For those who prefer to skip the alcohol, a Virgin Texas Tea combines cola, lemon juice, and ice for a simple yet satisfying refreshment. Just mix these in a glass and enjoy a non-alcoholic version of the classic.

Q&A

Can Texas Tea be made in large batches?

Absolutely! Texas Tea is perfect for parties. Just multiply the ingredients based on the number of guests and mix in a large pitcher or bowl.

Is Texas Tea very strong?

It can be, since it’s made with several types of liquor. But the sweetness of the cola and the tang of the lemon juice balance it out nicely.

What’s the best way to garnish a Texas Tea?

A lemon wedge or slice is traditional, but you could also add a sprig of mint or a cherry for a pop of color!

How can I make my Texas Tea less sweet?

Try using less cola or a sugar-free version, and maybe increase the lemon juice for more tartness.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

While fresh is best for flavor, bottled juice can work in a pinch—just watch out for added sugars or preservatives.

Are there any non-citrus variations of Texas Tea?

Sure! You could use other fruit juices like pineapple or cranberry for a twist. Just keep in mind the mix might be sweeter or tarter, so adjust accordingly.