Spiked Arnold Palmer Cocktail Recipe

The Spiked Arnold Palmer cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Arnold Palmer, a non-alcoholic beverage named after the legendary golfer. The original drink is a simple mix of iced tea and lemonade, which was a favorite of Arnold Palmer himself. The spiked version adds a touch of alcohol, making it a popular choice for summer parties and gatherings. This refreshing cocktail is enjoyed by both golf enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

The Spiked Arnold Palmer has a balanced taste, combining the sweet and tangy flavors of lemonade with the earthy, slightly bitter notes of iced tea. The added alcohol gives it a subtle kick, making it a refreshing and invigorating drink. It's light, crisp, and perfect for sipping on a warm day.

• The original Arnold Palmer drink was named after the famous golfer, who was known to enjoy the iced tea and lemonade combination.
• The spiked version of the Arnold Palmer is sometimes called a 'John Daly' after another professional golfer who is known for his love of alcohol.
• The Spiked Arnold Palmer is a versatile cocktail that can be made with various types of alcohol, such as vodka, bourbon, or even tequila.

1. Fill a highball or Collins glass with ice.
2. Pour 4 oz of iced tea into the glass.
3. Add 4 oz of lemonade to the glass.
4. Pour 2 oz of vodka over the mixture.
5. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
6. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of mint.

• Use fresh lemonade for a more vibrant and refreshing taste.
• Chill the glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold for longer.
• Use quality vodka to ensure a smooth and enjoyable drink.

Appetizers

• Grilled Shrimp: The cocktail's citrus notes complement the charred flavor of grilled shrimp.
• Chicken Wings: Especially ones with a tangy glaze, matching the bright flavors of the Arnold Palmer.

Main Courses

• BBQ Ribs: The sweet and sour mix can cut through the richness of barbecued meats.
• Grilled Chicken Salad: The fresh taste aligns with the light, crisp notes of the cocktail.

Desserts

• Lemon Tart: Enhances the lemon in the drink.
• Peach Cobbler: Provides a sweet contrast to the tartness of the lemonade and tea.

• Iced Tea: Can be replaced with green tea or black tea.
• Vodka: Can be substituted with bourbon or tequila for a different flavor profile.
• Lemonade: Can be replaced with limeade for a tangier taste.

Honey Arnold Palmer

Replace the lemonade with honey-sweetened lemon juice for a silky and more nuanced sweetness. As you sip, the honey's smooth caress balances the tea's tannins.

Ingredients: 4 oz iced tea, 2 oz honey syrup, 2 oz vodka, Ice, Lemon wheel, Mint sprig Recipe: Mix 1 part honey with 1 part hot water to create honey syrup. Let it cool. Follow the original recipe, but use 2 oz of honey syrup mixed with 2 oz water and the juice of half a lemon instead of lemonade.

Green Tea Arnold Palmer

Swapping traditional black iced tea for green tea introduces a lighter, more floral quality and might require a bit of a palate adjustment, but it's a refreshing change.

Ingredients: 4 oz green tea, 4 oz lemonade, 2 oz vodka, Ice, Lemon wheel, Mint sprig Recipe: Brew green tea and cool it down. Then simply follow the original recipe.

Bourbon Arnold Palmer

Substitute vodka with bourbon for a John Daly—essentially, an Arnold Palmer that's seen some things and has stories to tell. The bourbon adds a woody, vanilla flavor that infuses the drink with warmth and a slight edge.

Ingredients: 4 oz iced tea, 4 oz lemonade, 2 oz bourbon, Ice, Lemon wheel, Mint sprig Recipe: Replace vodka with bourbon and follow the original recipe.