Adult Arnold Palmer Recipe

Brew a strong black tea

Bring 4 cups of water to a near-boil (about 200°F / 93°C). Remove from heat and steep 4 black tea bags (or 4 teaspoons loose-leaf) for 5 minutes for a robust flavor. Do not oversteep to avoid excessive bitterness.

Remove tea bags (or strain leaves) and stir in 2 tablespoons granulated sugar while the tea is still hot so it dissolves fully. Stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Let the brewed tea cool at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, then refrigerate until chilled (about 20–30 minutes) or use an ice bath to speed cooling.

Make simple lemonade

In a pitcher, combine 1 cup fresh lemon juice and 1 cup granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar begins to dissolve. Add 1 cup water and continue stirring until sugar is completely dissolved. Taste and adjust: if too sweet, add a few tablespoons more lemon juice; if too tart, add a little water or sugar.

Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes or keep it on ice while assembling the drink.

Combine and adjust

In a large pitcher or mixing glass, add 2 cups chilled iced tea and 1 cup chilled lemonade (a 2:1 tea-to-lemonade ratio). If making an alcoholic Adult Arnold Palmer, add 3 tablespoons bourbon or vodka and stir to combine. If desired, add up to 1 cup cold water or club soda to dilute or lengthen the drink to taste and to balance strength/sweetness.

Fill serving glasses with ice (about 1/2 cup ice per glass). Pour the tea-lemonade mixture into each glass, leaving space at the top. Garnish each glass with a lemon slice and a sprig of fresh mint if using.

Serve immediately. Stir before drinking if using club soda to incorporate carbonation.