As a bartender, I’ve seen a lot of trends come and go in the world of mixology. But one trend that has stood the test of time is the use of tea in cocktails.
Tea is a versatile ingredient that can add depth, complexity, and flavor to any drink. From bold black teas to delicate green teas, there’s a tea out there for every palate.
The best thing about tea-inspired cocktails is that they’re perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink to sip on a hot summer day or a cozy beverage to warm you up on a cold winter night, there’s a tea-based cocktail that’s perfect for the occasion. And with so many different teas to choose from, the possibilities are endless.
But not all tea cocktails are created equal. Some are too sweet, too bitter, or too strong.
The key to making a great tea cocktail is to find the right balance of flavors. The tea should complement the other ingredients in the drink, not overpower them.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing some of the best tea-inspired cocktail recipes that I’ve come across in my years behind the bar.
These recipes are perfect for anyone who loves tea and wants to try something new and exciting. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the wonderful world of tea cocktails.
1. Hibiscus Iced Tea Cocktail
The Hibiscus Iced Tea Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious drink that's perfect for the warmer months. Made with freshly brewed hibiscus tea, orange vodka, and sparkling water, this cocktail has a bright pink color and a combination of tart and floral flavors. The addition of a red paper straw, fresh mint, and a strawberry make it a visually stunning drink that's sure to impress your guests.
This cocktail pairs well with snacks, appetizers, or meals and is perfect for occasions like Mother's Day, Easter, bridal and baby showers, and more. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful tea-inspired cocktail, the Hibiscus Iced Tea Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
2. Vanilla Chai Tea White Russian
The Vanilla Chai Tea White Russian is a cozy and warming cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail is a twist on the classic White Russian, with the addition of a homemade Vanilla Chai Tea simple syrup. The syrup is made by heavily concentrating chai tea, sweetening it with honey, and adding vanilla.
When mixed with vodka, coffee liquor, and cream, it creates a creamy and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for sipping on after dinner or at a holiday brunch. The chai spices add a unique and comforting flavor to the cocktail, making it a standout among other tea-inspired cocktails. If you're looking for a cozy and delicious drink to enjoy during the holiday season, the Vanilla Chai Tea White Russian is a must-try.
3. Ginger Hibiscus Martini
The Ginger Hibiscus Martini is a refreshing and unique cocktail that combines the tart flavor of hibiscus tea with the spicy kick of fresh ginger. This cocktail is perfect for those looking for a new twist on the classic martini. The addition of gin and dry vermouth gives it a smooth finish that is sure to impress.
The mocktail version, topped off with non-alcoholic ginger beer, is a great option for those who want to enjoy the flavors without the alcohol. Whether you're sipping on the martini or mocktail version, the Ginger Hibiscus Martini is a must-try for anyone looking for a tea-inspired cocktail with a twist.
4. Bourbon Strawberry Mint Tea Cocktail
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to try this summer, the Bourbon Strawberry Mint Tea Cocktail is definitely worth considering. This cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and bitter flavors, with the added kick of bourbon. What sets this cocktail apart is the use of iced tea, which adds a unique twist to the classic bourbon cocktail.
The addition of fresh strawberries and mint give the drink a refreshing taste, making it perfect for a hot summer day. If you're not a fan of bourbon, you can easily substitute it with other types of whiskey, such as Scotch. Overall, the Bourbon Strawberry Mint Tea Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting cocktail to add to their repertoire.
5. Matcha Mint Juleps
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique twist on the classic mint julep, the Matcha Mint Julep is a must-try. This cocktail combines the grassy, earthy flavors of matcha green tea with the sweetness of mint syrup and the boldness of bourbon. The result is a velvety green drink that is perfect for a warm spring day or night.
The bitterness of the matcha is balanced out by the sweetness of the mint syrup, making for a well-rounded and satisfying sip. Whether you're a fan of traditional juleps or looking for something new, the Matcha Mint Julep is definitely worth a try.
6. Blueberry Tea Cocktail
The Blueberry Tea Cocktail is a winter warmer that will chase away the cold and lift your spirits. This hot toddy is a delightful blend of Orange Pekoe tea, Grand Marnier, and Amaretto that creates a fruity flavor reminiscent of blueberries.
Served in a brandy snifter, the fragrance of the cocktail is released by the heat of the tea, making it a sensory experience. It's a simple cocktail to make, but it looks and tastes fancy. If you're looking for a cozy and delicious drink to enjoy in front of a roaring fire, the Blueberry Tea Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
7. AMF Cocktail
The AMF Cocktail is a refreshing and summery drink that is perfect for those who love lemon-lime sodas. This cocktail is a blue version of the infamous Long Island Iced Tea, and it is made with blue curaçao, lemon-lime soda, and a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice.
It is a simple yet crowd-pleasing drink that is perfect for any summer gathering. The AMF Cocktail is a great option for those who want to try a fun and colorful drink that is easy to make and delicious to drink.
8. The Belle
"The Belle" is a tea-inspired cocktail inspired by Disney's Beauty and the Beast. The cocktail is made with Limoncello, vodka, rose water, lemon, and Chambord, resulting in a beautifully floral martini with a sweet raspberry finish.
The addition of rose water elevates the Limoncello, creating a refreshing and unique flavor profile. The Chambord sinker slowly merges with the martini as it is sipped, providing a sweet and fruity finish. This cocktail is perfect for fans of the classic Disney film or those looking for a refreshing and unique tea-inspired cocktail.
9. Death Eater's Smoke
If you're a Harry Potter fan looking for a spooky cocktail to enjoy during your October movie marathon, the Death Eater's Smoke is the perfect choice. This dark and smokey cocktail is inspired by the smoke produced by Death Eaters when they Apparate in the movies. The cocktail features Mezcal, a smokey alcohol, and Korean Roasted Barley Tea, which adds to the smokey flavors.
The addition of activated charcoal gives the cocktail a unique look and adds to the Halloween vibe. The recipe is easy to follow and only requires a few special ingredients. If you're looking for a fun and magical cocktail to enjoy this Halloween, give the Death Eater's Smoke a try.
10. Rose & Cardamom Cocktail
The Rose & Cardamom Cocktail is a unique and refreshing drink that is sure to impress any tea lover. Infused with the flavors of rose petals and cardamom, this cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy. The cocktail is made using unsweetened iced tea, which is then mixed with a homemade rose and cardamom syrup.
The syrup can also be used in a variety of other desserts and drinks, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. The cocktail is perfect for a warm summer day or as a refreshing after-dinner drink. If you're looking for a unique and delicious tea-inspired cocktail, the Rose & Cardamom Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
11. Sake Fizz Cocktail
The Sake Fizz Cocktail is a unique and refreshing tea-inspired cocktail that is sure to impress. Featuring a combination of vodka and sake as the base, this cocktail is sweetened with peach syrup and balanced with the tart and zesty flavor of yuzu juice.
The addition of Butterfly Pea Flower Tea not only adds a beautiful color gradient, but also imparts an earthy and floral component to the drink. The result is a perfectly balanced and visually stunning cocktail that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. So, if you're looking for a cocktail that is both delicious and visually appealing, the Sake Fizz Cocktail should definitely be on your list of must-tries!
12. Pomegranate Rum Punch
The Pomegranate Rum Punch is a refreshing and sparkling cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. This tea-inspired cocktail is made with hibiscus tea, pomegranate, spiced rum, and a touch of citrus, creating a delicious and tart flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.
The cocktail's vibrant color and beautiful garnishes of pomegranate seeds and orange slices make it an eye-catching addition to any holiday party. If you're looking for an easy-to-make punch that is both fresh and seasonal, the Pomegranate Rum Punch is definitely worth a try.
