An American icon in a glass, Arnold Palmer tea is more than just a cool drink. Millions of people adore this beverage because it strikes the ideal mix between sour lemonade and strong iced tea. It’s a sentimental representation of summer, golf courses, and carefree appeal in addition to being a thirst quencher. You’re in for a treat if you’ve ever wondered how to prepare the ideal Arnold Palmer tea recipe at home. This thorough instruction will teach you how to make this classic drink using a simple yet delectable recipe that everyone can learn.
Table of Contents
What Is Arnold Palmer Tea?
Named for the renowned golfer Arnold Palmer, who often asked for this special blend, Arnold Palmer Tea is a beverage composed of equal parts iced tea and lemonade.
It creates a pleasant and revitalizing flavor profile by combining the tangy sweetness of lemonade with the tannic depth of black tea. Although 50/50 is the typical mixture, modifications might include different teas, sweeteners, and lemonade styles.
Arnold Palmer Tea Recipe At-a-Glance
Element | Description |
Main Ingredients | Iced tea (black) & Lemonade |
Ratio | Traditionally 50/50 |
Variants | Sweet, Unsweet, Sparkling, Herbal |
Calories (avg.) | 90-120 per 12 oz glass (sweetened version) |
Best Time to Serve | Summer, Brunches, Picnics, Golf Outings |
The History: What Gives It the Name Arnold Palmer Tea?

As endearing as Arnold Palmer himself is, the tale of his tea. Legendary golfer Arnold Palmer popularized the beverage by frequently asking for a combination of half tea and half lemonade. Palmer claims that he first drank this mixture at home before ordering it in public to pique fans’ interest. The appellation “that Arnold Palmer cocktail,” which a woman overheard him ordering, stuck.
Since then, the Arnold Palmer tea has become a standard beverage on menus at restaurants and in golf clubhouses. Even pre-packaged versions are available from companies like Arizona Beverages, but nothing compares to the homemade taste.

Arnold Palmer Tea Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Pitcher
- 1 Citrus juicer
- 1 Measuring Cups
- 1 Stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 4 cups Water
- 4 Black tea bags
- 1 cup Lemon juice
- 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Simple syrup or honey
Instructions
- Bring four cups of water to a boil in order to steep the tea. Take off the heat, add four black tea bags, and steep for five to seven minutes. Wait until it reaches room temperature.
- Make the Lemonade: Put 1 cup of fresh lemon juice and sugar or honey in a basin or small pitcher and stir until the desired sweetness is reached. Mix until it dissolves.
- Mix: Put equal parts tea and lemonade in a big pitcher. Mix thoroughly.
- Chill: To ensure it is completely cooled, place it in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.
- To serve, pour over ice, add mint leaves and lemon slices as garnish, and dig in!
Notes
- To suit your preferences, change the ratio of tea to lemonade (e.g., 60/40 or 70/30).
- As a caffeine substitute, use herbal or green tea.
- A bubbly version can be made by adding sparkling water.
- For optimal flavor, keep in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Arnold Palmer Tea Recipe: Low-Calorie or Unsweetened Type

Searching for a healthier, lighter take on this traditional beverage? No issue!
Just omit the sugar and add a twist by using green tea or herbal tea. Use stevia or monk fruit sweeteners in place of sugar-based lemonade, or even dilute fresh lemon juice with sparkling water. For people with diabetes or those on a low-carb diet, this version is perfect.
Modifications: Create Your Own!
1. Glistening Palmer, Arnold
- With a bubbly ending, substitute club soda or sparkling water with regular water.
2. Arnold Palmer’s Green Tea
- For more antioxidants and a softer taste, use green tea instead of black.
3. Version of Herbal Bliss
- For a variation without caffeine, use chamomile or hibiscus tea.
4. Adult Version: Boozy Arnold Palmer
- To make a cocktail, add 1.5 ounces of vodka or bourbon.
5. Cold Slushie by Arnold Palmer
- For a fun, icy twist, blend the ingredients with ice.
The Arnold Palmer is contested worldwide.
Variations of the Arnold Palmer have acquired distinctive cultural characteristics in many regions of the world:
- Matcha lemonade tea provides a colorful twist in Japan.
- In the UK, lemon cordial and Earl Grey are regional variations.
- In India, drinking lemon soda with masala tea creates a tangy, spicy taste.
- In the Caribbean, limeade and herbal bush teas make for a refreshing island drink.
Advantages of the Arnold Palmer Tea Recipe for Health

Packed with Antioxidants
Antioxidants included in black tea, especially polyphenols, aid in the battle against inflammation and oxidative stress.
Boosting the Immune System
Vitamin C is essential for healthy skin and a strong immune system, and lemon juice provides a good amount of it.
Minimal Calorie Content (If Unsweetened)
A low-calorie, hydrating alternative that satisfies your cravings without raising your blood sugar levels is an unsweetened Arnold Palmer.
Support for Hydration
The combination of tea and lemonade keeps your body cool and hydrated while offering a delicious substitute for sugary sodas.
Facilitates Digestion
Lemonade’s citrus component may alleviate bloating and encourage digestive juices.
Cuts Down on Caffeine Consumption
Green or herbal teas can lower the caffeine content, making them appropriate for nighttime refreshment.
Advice for Creating the Ideal Palmer, Arnold

- Use Fresh Ingredients: Premium tea and freshly squeezed lemons have a significant impact.
- Chill Well: For optimal flavor, let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
- Avoid Overbrewing: Tea that is steeped for too long may become bitter.
- Modify the sweetness gradually: Adjust the sweetness or lemonade based on your personal preferences after tasting it.
- Use your creativity as a garnish by adding lemon wedges, mint leaves, or even a pinch of cayenne for a little spiciness.
Tea by Arnold Palmer for Events & Parties
Organizing a wedding, summer barbecue, or brunch? Tea made by Arnold Palmer is a fantastic signature beverage. Large quantities can be made in advance, and you can even set up a do-it-yourself drink station where people can mix their own concoctions. Serve it in mason jars with paper straws and lemon slices for a sophisticated presentation.
Tips for Party Presentations:
- For visual appeal, include berries or edible flowers.
- Present the tea and lemonade in drink dispensers with separate taps.
- Print the name of the honored visitor on personalized “Arnold Palmer” drink tags.
Comparing Brands Purchased at Stores

Although homemade teas are the greatest for flavor and personalization, store-bought Arnold Palmer teas include:
- Arizona Arnold Palmer: well-liked all around the country; sweet and zesty.
- Snapple Half & Half: More lemony and a tad sweeter.
- Gold Peak Lemon Tea: A more straightforward combination that resembles conventional iced tea.
Verify the ingredients and sugar content on the label. Preservatives and high-fructose corn syrup are present in certain bottled varieties.
Last Sip: The Best Refreshment Is The Arnold Palmer Tea Recipe
Drinking a big glass of Arnold Palmer Tea Recipe has a very familiar and reassuring feel to it. This drink is always a hit, whether you’re entertaining, lounging on your porch, or just need a cool boost. Like Arnold Palmer himself, it unites people, bridges generations, and satisfies thirst.
It’s time to make your own and spread the love now that you know the secrets. Cheers to a glass full of summertime happiness, history, and flavor!
Additional intelligent wellness beverages can be found on Eat Like.
FAQs
What ingredients go into making an Arnold Palmer tea?
Named for golfer Arnold Palmer, an Arnold Palmer tea is a 50/50 blend of iced tea and lemonade.
Is it possible to prepare Arnold Palmer tea without adding sugar?
Yes, you can use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit, or you may make an unsweetened version.
What is the caloric content of an Arnold Palmer Tea Recipe?
A typical 12/ounce sweetened version has between 90 and 120 calories, although unsweetened variants have much fewer.
How should the Arnold Palmer Tea Recipe be kept?
Keep in the refrigerator for up to three days in a sealed pitcher.