Arnold Palmer Recipe

Steep tea

Bring 480 ml water to a rolling boil. Pour 240 ml (half) of the boiling water over 2 black tea bags (or about 2 tsp loose-leaf) in a heatproof pitcher or teapot. Let steep for 4–5 minutes for a full-flavored black tea. Do not over-steep to avoid bitterness.

Sweeten while hot

Remove the tea bags (or strain leaves) and stir in 2 tablespoons granulated sugar while the tea is still hot so it dissolves completely. If you prefer a less-sweet drink, use 1 tablespoon. Add one lemon slice to the hot tea to gently infuse citrus if desired. Allow tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled (about 30–45 minutes) or use an ice bath to cool faster.

Make lemonade

In a separate pitcher, combine 120 ml fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 medium lemons), 240 ml cold water, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or 30 ml simple syrup). Stir until the sugar dissolves. Taste and adjust: add more water if too tart or more sugar/simple syrup if too tart. Chill or keep cold.

Prepare ice

Add 2 cups of ice to the serving pitcher or individual glasses shortly before combining so the drink stays cold but doesn't get overly diluted.

Combine

For a classic Arnold Palmer, pour equal parts chilled tea and chilled lemonade. Using the quantities above (makes about 1 liter total before ice), combine about 360–400 ml chilled tea with 360–400 ml chilled lemonade in a large pitcher or assemble directly in glasses. Adjust ratio to taste (common ratios are 1:1 or 2 parts tea to 1 part lemonade for a less sweet result).

Garnish & finish

Stir gently, then serve over ice. Garnish each glass with a lemon wheel and a mint sprig if desired. If you added sugar earlier and the mixture is too strong, add a splash of cold water to adjust sweetness. Serve immediately.

Leftovers: keep chilled in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir before serving as separation may occur.