Spiked Arnold Palmer Recipe

If you’ve ever sipped on a cold iced tea mixed with lemonade on a hot afternoon, then you already know how refreshing that combo can be. Now imagine that same drink with a grown-up twist. Yep, that’s what this Spiked Arnold Palmer Recipe is all about.

So, what is a Spiked Arnold Palmer drink? It’s simply a mix of iced tea, lemonade, and a little vodka. That’s it—simple, cool, and very refreshing.

The name comes from the famous American golfer Arnold Palmer. He used to order this drink often—just tea and lemonade. Over time, people started calling it by his name.

Now, I’m adding a little twist with this Spiked Arnold Palmer Recipe. It’s perfect for a hot day or just chilling with friends. Let’s get started and make it together!

Why is a Spiked Arnold Palmer Called a John Daly?

You might’ve heard people call the spiked version a John Daly, and that’s not a mistake.

While Arnold Palmer made the original non-alcoholic version famous, John Daly, another pro golfer, is often linked to the stronger version. Since this drink has alcohol (usually vodka), folks started calling it the “John Daly” as a funny nod to his more wild and bold personality.

It’s like taking Arnold Palmer’s calm and classy tea drink and giving it a little edge. Some bars use “Spiked Arnold Palmer,” others call it “John Daly,” but at the end of the day, they both mean iced tea, lemonade, and booze. Simple as that.

Spiked Arnold Palmer Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this refreshing drink:

• Vodka (2 ounces): This is what makes it “spiked.” Use your favorite vodka for the best flavor.
• Lemonade (3 ounces): Freshly squeezed lemonade works best, but store-bought lemonade is fine too.
• Unsweetened Iced Tea (3 ounces): Brewed iced tea without sugar keeps the drink balanced and not overly sweet.
• Ice: Essential for keeping your drink chilled and refreshing.
• Lemon Slice and Mint Leaves (for garnish): These add a nice touch of color and flavor.

Helpful Swaps

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, here are some easy swaps:

1. Vodka: You can use gin or rum for a different flavor profile.
2. Lemonade: Try limeade or even sparkling lemonade for an extra fizz.
3. Unsweetened Iced Tea: Sweet tea can be used if you prefer a sweeter drink.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make this drink:

1. A tall glass
2. Measuring cups or jigger

How To Make Spiked Arnold Palmer

Step 1 | Fill Your Glass with Ice

Start with a tall glass. Fill it up with ice cubes, almost to the top. This helps keep your drink cold and refreshing.

Step 2 | Add the Lemonade

Next, pour in 3 ounces of lemonade. It’ll mix in with the ice and start forming that pretty golden base.

Step 3 | Pour In the Vodka

Measure out 2 ounces of vodka. Pour it right over the lemonade and ice. This is your spiked part, so you can adjust a little more or less depending on how strong you like it.

Step 4 | Top with Iced Tea

Now, add 3 ounces of unsweetened iced tea. Pour it gently over the lemonade. You’ll get that layered look if you pour slow enough.

Step 5 | Garnish and Serve

Cut a fresh lemon slice and toss it on top. Add a few mint leaves if you’ve got some. It smells great and looks fresh.

Pro Tips For Making This Recipe

These are a few little tips I’ve picked up after making this drink more times than I can count:

• Use chilled tea and lemonade – Keeps your drink cold without watering it down too fast.
• Try flavored vodka – Lemon or tea-flavored vodka works well.
• Fresh lemon juice makes a difference – If your lemonade tastes too sweet, a splash of lemon juice can help.
• Don’t skip the ice – It really changes the texture and makes the drink super refreshing.
• Make a pitcher – If you’ve got friends over, you can mix a big batch and serve.

Storage & Freezing Tips

If you want to make a bigger batch ahead of time, you sure can. Here’s how I store it:

I mix the tea, lemonade, and vodka in a large pitcher and keep it in the fridge. It stays good for up to 3 days. Just remember, don’t add ice or garnishes until you’re ready to serve—it can water things down and make it taste flat.

For freezing, you can pour the mixed drink (without ice or mint) into a popsicle mold or even ice cube trays. Freeze overnight. It turns into a grown-up frozen treat! Great for hot summer days.

Just don’t refreeze if it’s already been mixed with melted ice—it can get weird in taste.

Spiked Arnold Palmer Recipe FAQs

Here are some things people often ask about this Spiked Arnold Palmer Recipe, with all the details you need:

1. What’s the alcohol content like?

It depends on how much vodka you use, but typically one serving has about as much alcohol as a standard cocktail.

2. Can I Make It Without Alcohol?

For sure! Skip the vodka, and you’ve got a classic Arnold Palmer. I do this sometimes when I want something light and refreshing. It’s still got that lemonade-tea combo that’s so good—just no kick. Perfect for kids or a chill day!

3. What kind of tea is best for this recipe?

Plain black tea works best because it has a bold flavor. But you can also use green tea or herbal tea if you like. Just avoid anything too strong or flavored unless that’s what you’re going for.

4. What type of vodka works best in a Spiked Arnold Palmer?

A smooth, mid-range vodka like Tito’s, Smirnoff, or Absolut works great. No need for top-shelf, but avoid the super cheap stuff. Citrus-infused vodka also adds a nice twist. For something special, try infusing your own with lemon peels!

5. What food pairs well with a Spiked Arnold Palmer?

It’s perfect with BBQ and summer eats—think grilled chicken, burgers, pulled pork, or spicy shrimp. It also goes well with salads, fruit, or cheese boards. Its sweet, refreshing flavor balances rich or spicy foods beautifully.

This Spiked Arnold Palmer Recipe is my go-to for summer. It’s quick, refreshing, and impossible to mess up. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it all season long.

Did you make this recipe? Please leave a ⭐ rating and review!