How to Make the Best Non-Alcoholic Long Island Iced Tea (That Actually Tastes Real!)

Long Island Iced Tea is one of those drinks that’s deceptively smooth yet packed with bold, layered flavors—and despite the name, it doesn’t actually contain any tea. Instead, the classic version is a mix of vodka, rum, gin, tequila, triple sec, lemon, simple syrup, and cola, creating a cocktail that’s citrusy, slightly sweet, and dangerously drinkable.

So how do you make a non-alcoholic version that actually tastes like the real thing? That’s where things get tricky.

I’ve seen plenty of mocktail recipes that just mix black tea and cola, but let’s be honest—that’s not really a Long Island Iced Tea. The real magic of the original comes from its depth, complexity, and balance, and a true non-alcoholic version needs to replicate those layers without alcohol.

After testing different methods, I’ve found two ways to make a convincing booze-free Long Island Iced Tea:

1. The Tea-Based Version – This is the easy, accessible method. It uses strong black tea, citrus juices, cola, and a little sweetness to create a drink that mimics the overall profile of the original. It’s simple, refreshing, and great for parties or casual sipping.

2. The Zero-Proof Version – This is for those who want a mocktail that actually tastes like the real thing. It uses zero-proof spirits, non-alcoholic bitters, and natural extracts to mimic the warmth, depth, and complexity of a true Long Island Iced Tea. It takes a little more effort, but I think the results are worth it—this version is the closest you’ll get to the real thing without alcohol.

So whether you’re looking for a quick and easy mocktail or a more sophisticated alternative, this guide will walk you through exactly how to make the best non-alcoholic Long Island Iced Tea. Let’s dive in!

Understanding the Key Flavors in a Long Island Iced Tea

Before we can recreate a non-alcoholic Long Island Iced Tea, we need to break down what makes the original so unique. It’s not just about mixing random ingredients—it’s about balancing multiple spirits, citrus, and cola to create a smooth yet complex drink.

A classic Long Island Iced Tea has five different spirits, plus citrus, sweetener, and cola. Each ingredient plays a specific role in the overall flavor:

Vodka – Adds a neutral base and slight warmth.
Rum – Provides a hint of caramel and depth.
Gin – Brings in botanical, herbal notes.
Tequila – Gives the drink a subtle earthiness and spice.
Triple Sec (Orange Liqueur) – Adds citrus and sweetness to balance the acidity.
Lemon Juice & Simple Syrup – The sweet-tart backbone of the drink.
Cola – Ties everything together with caramelized sweetness and color.

Why Just Using Tea & Cola Falls Short

A lot of mocktail recipes just use black tea and cola, assuming that will be enough. But I’ve tried that method, and honestly? It’s just a sweet iced tea—it doesn’t have the depth or complexity of a true Long Island.

If we want to make a realistic non-alcoholic Long Island Iced Tea, we need to replace the depth, spice, and warmth of the alcohol in a way that still keeps the drink balanced. That’s why I prefer two approaches:

1. The Tea-Based Version – Uses strong black tea for body, fresh citrus juice for brightness, and cola for sweetness and color. It’s the easiest to make and still gives a solid Long Island-inspired flavor.
2. The Zero-Proof Version – Uses non-alcoholic spirits, bitters, and extracts to create a layered, complex drink that’s the closest you can get to the real thing. This is my favorite approach because it actually feels like a real Long Island when you sip it.

Now that we understand the flavors we need to replicate, let’s dive into the tea-based version first!

The Tea-Based Version (Easy & Accessible Mocktail)

If you want a simple, easy-to-make non-alcoholic Long Island Iced Tea, this version is a great option. It’s refreshing, citrusy, slightly sweet, and has a deep tea base that mimics the overall character of the original cocktail. While it doesn’t have the same layered complexity as the alcoholic version, it still captures the essence of a Long Island without requiring any specialty ingredients.

I like this version when I’m making a quick batch for a party or just want something light and refreshing without a lot of effort. The black tea provides depth, the lemon and orange juices add brightness, and the cola ties it all together with caramelized sweetness and color.

What Does It Taste Like?

This version has a bold, slightly smoky black tea base, with a citrus-forward balance of lemon and orange, rounded out by the subtle sweetness and fizz of cola. It’s smooth, refreshing, and easy to drink.

Servings:

• Single Serve: 1 glass (approx. 12 oz)
• Pitcher (6 Servings): Makes about 6 cups

Ingredients (Single Serving):

• 1 cup brewed black tea, chilled
• ½ tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ tablespoon fresh orange juice
• ½ tablespoon simple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• ¼ cup cola
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wedge for garnish

Ingredients (Pitcher – Serves 6):

• 6 cups brewed black tea, chilled
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 3 tablespoons simple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 ½ cups cola
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brew the Tea: Steep strong black tea, let it cool completely, then refrigerate until chilled.
2. Mix the Base: In a glass (or pitcher), combine the chilled tea, fresh lemon juice, orange juice, and simple syrup. Stir well.
3. Add the Cola: Pour in the cola and stir gently to combine.
4. Serve Over Ice: Fill a highball glass (or multiple glasses if using the pitcher) with ice cubes, then pour the tea mixture over the ice.
5. Garnish & Enjoy: Add a lemon wedge for a polished look and extra citrus aroma.

How to Elevate the Experience:

• Use a bold black tea like Assam or Lapsang Souchong for a deeper, smokier flavor.
• Add a splash of ginger beer to enhance the spice and complexity.
• Use sparkling cola alternatives for a healthier version without processed sugar.
• Serve in a highball glass with a sugared rim for a classic Long Island feel.

This version is a great starting point for anyone looking for a quick, easy Long Island-inspired mocktail, but if you want something that truly mimics the real thing, the zero-proof version is where it gets interesting. That’s up next.

The Zero-Proof Version (Closest to the Real Thing)

If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic Long Island Iced Tea that actually tastes like the original, this is the version to make. Instead of relying on tea alone, this version uses zero-proof spirits, non-alcoholic bitters, and extracts to mimic the complex flavors of vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and triple sec.

I prefer this approach when I want a mocktail that feels like a true cocktail—it has the warmth, depth, and slight bite that you’d expect from a real Long Island, but without the alcohol. It takes a little more effort and a few specialty ingredients, but the payoff is a drink that’s nearly indistinguishable from the original.

What Does It Taste Like?

This version is bold, layered, and well-balanced, with a slight warmth and spice from the zero-proof spirits, a hint of botanical complexity, and a smooth citrus-and-cola finish. The result is a mocktail that actually has the depth and structure of the real thing.

Key Ingredients That Make It Work

To successfully replicate the original, we need layers of flavor that mimic each type of alcohol. Here’s how we achieve that:

1. Non-Alcoholic Spirits (To Replace Vodka, Rum, Gin, and Tequila)

• Zero-Proof Vodka (e.g., Lyre’s, Ritual Zero Proof, CleanCo) – Adds a neutral base with a little bite.
• Zero-Proof White Rum (e.g., Lyre’s White Cane, Ritual Rum Alternative) – Provides slight caramel sweetness.
• Zero-Proof Gin (e.g., Seedlip Spice, Monday Gin, Free Spirits Gin) – Adds a botanical, herbal complexity.
• Zero-Proof Tequila (e.g., Ritual Tequila Alternative, CleanCo Tequila, Lyre’s Agave Blanco) – Gives an earthy, peppery undertone.

I like to use at least two of these to build depth, but even one or two will get you close.

2. Orange Flavor (To Replace Triple Sec)

• Orange Blossom Water – Light and floral, adds a subtle citrus note.
• Orange Extract – A more concentrated option that mimics the brightness of triple sec.

3. Bitters & Extras for Depth

• Non-Alcoholic Aromatic Bitters (e.g., All the Bitter, Fee Brothers Non-Alcoholic Bitters) – Enhances complexity and rounds out the flavors.
• Vanilla or Almond Extract – Just a few drops add warmth and richness.

Servings:

• Single Serve: 1 glass (approx. 12 oz)
• Pitcher (6 Servings): Makes about 6 cups

Ingredients (Single Serving):

• ½ oz zero-proof vodka
• ½ oz zero-proof white rum
• ½ oz zero-proof gin
• ½ oz zero-proof tequila
• ¼ teaspoon orange extract or 3 drops orange blossom water
• ½ tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ tablespoon simple syrup
• 2-3 dashes non-alcoholic aromatic bitters
• ¼ cup cola
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wedge for garnish

Ingredients (Pitcher – Serves 6):

• 3 oz zero-proof vodka
• 3 oz zero-proof white rum
• 3 oz zero-proof gin
• 3 oz zero-proof tequila
• ½ teaspoon orange extract or ½ teaspoon orange blossom water
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons simple syrup
• 10-12 dashes non-alcoholic aromatic bitters
• 1 ½ cups cola
• Ice cubes
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker (or pitcher for a batch), add the zero-proof spirits, orange extract, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters.
2. Shake or Stir: Shake well with ice (if making a single drink) or stir vigorously (if making a pitcher).
3. Serve Over Ice: Fill a highball glass (or multiple glasses if using the pitcher) with ice, then strain the mixture into the glass.
4. Top with Cola: Pour in the cola and stir gently.
5. Garnish & Enjoy: Add a lemon wedge for a polished finish.

How to Elevate the Experience:

• Use a cocktail shaker to mix—it chills and blends the flavors better.
• Add a sugared rim for a touch of sweetness.
• Serve in classic highball glasses for an authentic feel.

Why This is My Favorite Version

I like this version best because it has the closest flavor to a real Long Island Iced Tea. The zero-proof spirits add warmth, the bitters add depth, and the orange extract mimics triple sec beautifully. If you’re a fan of sophisticated mocktails, this is the one to try.

Comparing the Two Methods: Which One is Right for You?

Both versions of the Non-Alcoholic Long Island Iced Tea have their strengths, and the best one for you depends on what you’re looking for in a mocktail.

When to Choose the Tea-Based Version

• You want a quick and easy mocktail.
• You don’t have access to zero-proof spirits or bitters.
• You’re making a big batch for a party and need a simple crowd-pleaser.

When to Choose the Zero-Proof Version

• You want a more authentic-tasting non-alcoholic Long Island.
• You enjoy layered, complex flavors in your mocktails.
• You have access to zero-proof spirits and non-alcoholic bitters.

Personally, I love using the zero-proof version when I’m making a special drink for myself or for friends who appreciate a cocktail-style experience. But when I just want something refreshing and easy, the tea-based version does the trick.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Both versions can be made ahead, but they taste best fresh.

• Tea-Based Version – Can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Zero-Proof Version – Best made fresh, but you can mix the base ahead and add the cola right before serving.

Where can I buy zero-proof spirits and bitters?

• Online retailers like Amazon, The Zero Proof, and Better Rhodes.
• Specialty liquor stores that carry non-alcoholic spirits.
• Some grocery stores now have sections for non-alcoholic options.

Can I make this sugar-free?

Yes!

• Use sugar-free cola instead of regular.
• Swap simple syrup for a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit syrup.

What’s the best tea to use?

• Black tea – Best for a bold, slightly smoky base.
• Oolong tea – A smoother, slightly floral option that still has depth.
• Earl Grey – Adds a subtle citrusy, bergamot note for extra complexity.

Do I have to use all four zero-proof spirits?

Not necessarily! You can pick two or three and still get a similar effect.

• If you want a simpler option, I recommend using:
  Zero-proof rum for depth.
  Zero-proof gin for botanicals.
  Orange extract + bitters to replace triple sec.

Now that we’ve covered everything, let’s wrap it up with final thoughts on which version is best for you and how to serve it for the best experience.

Final Thoughts: Which Version is Right for You?

Making a non-alcoholic Long Island Iced Tea that actually tastes like the real thing requires more than just tea and cola—it’s all about layering flavors to mimic the depth, warmth, and complexity of the original.

If you’re looking for something quick and easy, the tea-based version is a great choice. It’s simple, refreshing, and works well for casual sipping or big-batch mocktails at parties.

But if you want a mocktail that truly captures the essence of a Long Island Iced Tea, I highly recommend the zero-proof version. The combination of non-alcoholic spirits, bitters, and extracts creates a drink that’s bold, layered, and dangerously close to the original cocktail. It’s the version I personally prefer when I want a more refined, cocktail-like experience without the alcohol.

No matter which method you choose, the key is in the balance of flavors—sweet, tart, and just the right amount of fizz.

How to Serve It for the Best Experience

• Use the right glass: A highball glass keeps it authentic.
• Add a sugared rim: Dip the rim in lemon juice, then sugar for a touch of sweetness.
• Chill everything beforehand: A properly chilled mocktail tastes smoother and more balanced.
• Use clear ice cubes: Larger ice cubes melt slower, preventing dilution.

Try It and Share Your Thoughts!

Which version are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments! And if you enjoyed this guide, pin this post so you can make the best non-alcoholic Long Island Iced Tea whenever you like.