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Arnold Palmer is perhaps one of the greatest combinations of beverages out there. There’s simplicity in this refreshing, easy drink made with just one part crisp lemonade and one part sweet tea. Since the drink gained popularity in the 1960s after the American golfer Arnold Palmer was known to order this specialty drink, it’s now become a staple summertime beverage. In this recipe, the classic is made even better with a splash of vodka. Here’s how to make the ultimate spiked Arnold Palmer:
Lemonade & tea:
While you can certainly make this drink with store-bought lemonade and iced tea, it shines with fresh ingredients. First, make the tea by brewing black tea and pouring the tea over ice. Then sweeten it with demerara sugar or cane sugar and chill for at least an hour. Make fresh lemonade with the juice from 4 lemons, water, and simple syrup. Fresh lemonade can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 5 to 7 days.
Simple syrup:
The benefit of using simple syrup in this recipe and other cocktails is that the sugar disperses better throughout the drink, rather than just adding granulated sugar. Bring equal parts water and sugar to a simmer and whisk the sugar until completely dissolved into the water until the mixture has a cloudy appearance. Simple syrup can be stored in the fridge for up to a few months. Simple syrup has countless uses, so use up the extra syrup for cold brew, non-alcholohic beverages, or a variety of cocktails.
Spike it!
Add a shot of neutral-flavored vodka to a chilled glass with fresh lemon juice, tea, and simple syrup. This cocktail is great batched out, so feel free to scale up the recipe and serve in a pitcher. For the layered effect, be sure to pour in the lemonade first and then slowly top the drink with chilled iced tea. Garnish with fresh mint and serve!
Made this drink? Let us know how it went in the comments below!