Homemade Arnold Palmer is a refreshing drink that combines the tartness of fresh lemon juice with the rich flavor of black iced tea. This classic beverage is named after the famous golfer Arnold Palmer, who enjoyed mixing these two drinks together. Perfect for hot days, this drink is both simple and delicious, making it a great choice for gatherings, picnics, or just to enjoy at home.

Why Make This Recipe
Making your own Arnold Palmer at home allows you to control the sweetness and freshness of the ingredients. It’s an easy way to quench your thirst and impress your friends and family at the same time. Plus, with just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delightful drink in no time.
How to Make Homemade Arnold Palmer
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh lemon juice (about 10 lemons)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 cups unsweetened brewed black iced tea
- Ice
Directions:
- In a large pitcher, mix the 2 cups of fresh lemon juice and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Pour the 4 cups of unsweetened brewed black iced tea into the pitcher and stir well.
- Pour the mixture over ice and serve.
How to Serve Homemade Arnold Palmer
Pour the Homemade Arnold Palmer into tall glasses filled with ice. You can garnish each glass with a lemon slice or a sprig of mint for a touch of elegance. This drink is best enjoyed cold, so serve it right after making it!
How to Store Homemade Arnold Palmer
You can store any unused Homemade Arnold Palmer in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in a sealed pitcher or container. Before serving again, stir it up as the ingredients may separate.
Tips to Make Homemade Arnold Palmer
- Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice will not taste as bright.
- Adjust the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet drink, use less sugar or try a sugar substitute.
- For extra flavor, experiment with adding mint leaves while mixing or while serving.
Variation
You can make a spiked version of the Arnold Palmer by adding vodka or iced tea-flavored liquor for an adult twist. Additionally, try using different types of tea, such as green tea or herbal tea, to change the flavor profile!
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, fresh lemon juice will provide a fresher and more vibrant flavor.
2. How do I know when the sugar is dissolved?
The sugar is dissolved when you no longer see any granules at the bottom of the pitcher and the mixture appears clear.
3. Is it possible to make this drink sugar-free?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute or sweetener of your choice to create a sugar-free version of the Arnold Palmer. Just ensure that it dissolves well in the lemon juice!

Homemade Arnold Palmer
Ingredients
For the drink
- 2 cups fresh lemon juice (about 10 lemons) Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar Adjust to taste; can use sugar substitute.
- 4 cups unsweetened brewed black iced tea Brewed and cooled.
- Ice For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pitcher, mix the 2 cups of fresh lemon juice and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Pour the 4 cups of unsweetened brewed black iced tea into the pitcher and stir well.
- Pour the mixture over ice and serve.


