Have you ever wondered about the origins of the refreshing Arnold Palmer drink you enjoy on hot days? This classic beverage, a mix of lemonade and iced tea, was popularized by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer. After a long day designing a golf course, he ordered this unique blend in Palm Springs, California, and it quickly became a favorite.

The Arnold Palmer is a simple yet satisfying combination that blends the sweet, smooth taste of iced tea with the zesty, tangy flavor of lemonade. This drink's appeal lies in its perfect balance of flavors, making it a great choice for cooling down. With its American roots and connection to golf, the Arnold Palmer has become a beloved staple across the world.
Making an Arnold Palmer is straightforward, whether you're serving it at a party or enjoying it alone. All you need is iced tea, lemonade, and a touch of ice to create this delicious treat. It's an ideal refreshment for any occasion and offers a slice of American tradition in every sip.
Table of Contents
The Origin and History

The Arnold Palmer drink, a mixture of lemonade and iced tea, is closely tied to the life and career of the legendary professional golfer, Arnold Palmer. This section explores both the man behind the drink and how the beverage came to be.
Arnold Palmer: The Golfer and the Legend
Arnold Palmer, often called "The King," was more than just a professional golfer; he was an American icon. Born in 1929, Palmer won numerous major championships and had a monumental impact on the PGA Tour. His charisma and skill on the golf course earned him widespread acclaim and a loyal fan base.
Palmer's career wasn't limited to playing golf; he also made significant contributions to the sport itself, making it more accessible and popular. Thanks to his remarkable achievements and down-to-earth personality, Arnold Palmer became a household name, even among those who weren’t avid golf fans.
The Birth of the Drink
The Arnold Palmer drink dates back to the 1960s. As the story goes, Palmer was at a restaurant after a round of golf in Palm Springs and asked for a mixture of iced tea and lemonade. A nearby customer, intrigued by the combination, decided to order the same. Thus, the Arnold Palmer drink was born.
This seemingly simple origin story is supported by Palmer himself, making it a well-accepted piece of golf and American culinary history. The drink gained popularity quickly and became a staple in many American homes and restaurants. Its refreshing taste and association with a golfing legend made it an enduring favorite.
Crafting the Classic Drink
To make a perfect Arnold Palmer, you need the right ingredients and a simple but precise method. You'll also learn about some fun variations to mix it up.
Essential Ingredients
For a classic Arnold Palmer, you need lemonade and iced tea.
You'll use:
- Tea Bags: Typically, black tea is preferred.
- Lemons: Fresh lemon juice makes the lemonade tangy and bright.
- Sugar (Granulated or Simple Syrup): To sweeten both the tea and the lemonade.
- Water: For brewing tea and making lemonade.
- Ice cubes: These keep the drink refreshingly cold.
Using quality ingredients ensures the best flavor. Herbal tea or sweetened iced tea are good alternatives if you want a twist on the classic taste.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Brew the tea: Boil water and steep your black tea bags for 3–5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and sweeten with sugar or simple syrup while the tea is hot. Let it cool.
Make the lemonade: Combine fresh lemon juice, water, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Mix the drink: Fill a glass with ice cubes. Pour equal parts of the cooled iced tea and lemonade over the ice. Stir gently to combine.
You can adjust the ratio of tea to lemonade based on your preference. Some like it more lemony, while others prefer more tea flavor.
Variations and Mixes
For a spiked Arnold Palmer, add a shot of bourbon, vodka, or gin.
Try these fun mixes:
- Limeade Arnold Palmer: Replace lemonade with limeade for a zesty twist.
- John Daly: Named after another golfer, mix iced tea, lemonade, and vodka.
- Herbal Teas: Use peach or mint tea instead of black tea for a unique flavor.
Garnish your drink with a lemon wedge or mint sprig for an extra touch of elegance. You can also try using lime slices for a bit more zest!
Cultural Impact and Presence

Arnold Palmer's influence reaches far beyond the golf course. He has left an indelible mark on both sports and the food and beverage industry, making him a household name.
In Sports and Media
Arnold Palmer, often referred to as "The King," revolutionized golf. His charisma and skills helped popularize the sport. He won numerous tournaments, including seven major championships, and his presence elevated the PGA Tour to new heights.
ESPN frequently highlights his career milestones, ensuring that his legacy endures. Interviews with Palmer captured his wisdom and charm, increasing his popularity.
He was not just a golfer; he was a gentleman who transcended sports. His personality made him relatable, making more people interested in golf. His influence is evident in modern sports culture, where athletes are admired for their off-field personas as well.
In Food and Beverage Industry
The Arnold Palmer drink is a combination of iced tea and lemonade, becoming a staple in the American beverage scene. This refreshing concoction is a favorite at restaurants, parties, and especially during hot summer months.
Restaurants and cafes often offer the drink, capitalizing on its popularity. The drink's creation, attributed to a random moment when Palmer ordered it, shows his simple yet impactful creativity.
This beverage even inspired variations like spiked versions and canned products. The Arnold Palmer is more than just a drink; it's a symbol of American culture and hospitality.
You might see it featured in modern cocktail menus and enjoyed during casual gatherings or formal events, showcasing its versatile appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions

Learn about the unique blend of iced tea and lemonade known as the Arnold Palmer. This section covers the classic recipe, its origins, the correct ratios, and variations that include alcohol.
What are the ingredients of a classic Arnold Palmer drink?
A classic Arnold Palmer is made with two simple ingredients: lemonade and iced tea. You can use either sweetened or unsweetened iced tea, depending on your preference. For the lemonade, freshly squeezed is often preferred, but store-bought works well too.
Why is the combination of lemonade and iced tea known as an Arnold Palmer?
The drink is named after the famous golfer Arnold Palmer. It is said that he often ordered a mixture of lemonade and iced tea after a long day on the golf course. One day, a customer overheard him order it and asked for the same, leading to its popular name.
What is the proper lemonade-to-iced tea ratio for an Arnold Palmer?
The classic ratio for an Arnold Palmer is 50% lemonade and 50% iced tea. This equal mix is what gives the drink its balanced flavor. Some prefer a slightly different blend, like 60% tea and 40% lemonade, to adjust the sweetness and tartness.
How does the sweetness of an Arnold Palmer compare to regular sweetened iced tea?
An Arnold Palmer tends to be less sweet than regular sweetened iced tea. Since it combines both lemonade and iced tea, the tartness of the lemonade balances out the overall sweetness. You can adjust the sweetness by using sweetened or unsweetened tea or by varying the amount of sugar in the lemonade.
What is the name of the alcoholic version of an Arnold Palmer?
The alcoholic version of an Arnold Palmer is commonly known as a John Daly, named after another famous golfer. This version typically adds a shot of bourbon or vodka to the classic lemonade and iced tea mix, giving it an extra kick.
How do you make a non-alcoholic Arnold Palmer?
To make a non-alcoholic Arnold Palmer, mix equal parts lemonade and iced tea in a glass filled with ice. Stir well, and serve chilled. It’s a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that’s perfect for any time of the year.
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