This is one of those cocktails that just feels like summer in a glass. The Spiked Arnold Palmer blends the bright tang of lemonade with the mellow smoothness of iced tea-and then gives it a little grown-up kick with vodka. It’s cool, refreshing, and ridiculously easy to make. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I picked up along the way: use fresh lemonade and chilled tea for the best flavor and less dilution.
Spiked Arnold Palmer
What You’ll Need
– Prep Time: 5 minutes
– Servings: 1 drink
– Glass: Highball or mason jar
– Make-Ahead: You can mix the tea and lemonade ahead of time and refrigerate. Add vodka and ice just before serving.
Ingredients
– 4 oz (120 ml) chilled lemonade (freshly squeezed, if possible)
– 4 oz (120 ml) chilled iced black tea (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– Ice
– Lemon slice or fresh mint, for garnish (optional)
Method
- Fill your glass with ice-all the way to the top. This keeps the drink nice and cold without watering it down too fast.
- Pour in the vodka (2 oz / 60 ml) over the ice.
- Add the lemonade (4 oz / 120 ml).
- Top with iced tea (4 oz / 120 ml).
- Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together. You want the flavors to blend without losing that layered look.
- Garnish with a lemon slice or a sprig of mint, if you like.
Tips & Tricks
– Use freshly squeezed lemonade for a bright, citrusy pop. Bottled versions can work too-just pick one with minimal added sugar.
– Chill your tea ahead of time so the ice doesn’t melt too quickly. Room-temperature tea will water down your drink fast.
– Don’t over-stir-just a couple of turns with a spoon is enough.
– If you like it sweeter, a touch of honey or agave nectar does the trick without overpowering the drink.
– Make it lighter by using half the vodka or swapping it for a flavored sparkling water.
Flavor Variations
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch, but it’s also fun to change it up now and then. Here are a few spins on the classic:
John Daly
– Swap regular vodka for sweet tea vodka
– Use lemonade as usual
– Serve over ice with a lemon wedge
Tropical Arnold Palmer
– Add a splash (1 oz / 30 ml) of pineapple juice
– Replace vodka with light rum for a beachy feel
– Garnish with a pineapple slice
Minty Arnold Palmer
– Muddle a few fresh mint leaves in the bottom of the glass
– Build the drink as usual
– Add a mint sprig on top for a cool finish
Ingredient Swaps
– Vodka: Try bourbon for a richer, more complex flavor
– Lemonade: Pink lemonade adds a fun twist
– Tea: Peach or raspberry tea brings a fruity note
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
Grilled Meats
The sweet-tart balance cuts through smoky barbecue flavors-great with ribs, burgers, or grilled chicken.
Summer Salads
Think citrusy greens with vinaigrette, or watermelon and feta salad. Light, crisp, and refreshing.
Spicy Dishes
The coolness of the drink helps mellow out heat from spicy wings, tacos, or Thai noodles.
Storage
You can mix the lemonade and tea ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Don’t add the vodka or ice until you’re ready to serve-this keeps the flavors fresh and the drink from getting watered down.
FAQs
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Definitely! Just keep the lemonade-to-tea ratio 1:1 and scale up the vodka as needed. Mix in a pitcher and chill. Add ice to glasses, not the pitcher, to avoid dilution.
What’s the best tea to use?
Black tea is traditional and gives a nice bold flavor. But feel free to try green tea or fruit-infused teas for something different.
Can I use a flavored vodka?
Yes! Lemon, peach, or tea-flavored vodkas work especially well.
How do I cut down on sugar?
Use unsweetened iced tea and fresh lemonade sweetened with a little honey or stevia. That way, you control the sweetness.
What’s a good garnish?
A thin lemon wheel or a sprig of mint adds color and a little extra aroma with every sip.
Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Of course. Just skip the vodka and enjoy a classic Arnold Palmer-it’s just as refreshing and perfect for all ages.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just relaxing on the porch, the Spiked Arnold Palmer is one of those drinks that fits right in. It’s simple, satisfying, and easy to make your own. Try a few variations, pair it with your favorite summer bites, and enjoy the sunshine-glass in hand.
