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Sweet Tea Vodka Arnold Palmer Recipe

sweet tea vodka arnold palmer - featured image

A refreshing and easy-to-make summer cocktail combining sweet tea, fresh lemon juice, and vodka for a crisp, crowd-pleasing pitcher perfect for warm-weather gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (950 ml) water (for brewing tea)
  • 4 black tea bags (Lipton or Twinings recommended)
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 4 cups (950 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 68 lemons)
  • 4 cups (950 ml) cold water (to dilute lemon juice)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) vodka (smooth brand like Titoโ€™s or Smirnoff)
  • Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh mint sprigs (optional, for garnish)
  • Ice cubes or large ice blocks (to keep pitcher chilled)

Instructions

  1. Brew the Sweet Tea: Bring 4 cups (950 ml) of water to a boil. Remove from heat and steep 4 black tea bags for 5-7 minutes depending on desired strength. Remove tea bags and stir in 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar while tea is warm until dissolved. Let cool to room temperature (about 20 minutes).
  2. Prepare the Arnold Palmer Mix: In a separate container, combine 4 cups (950 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice with 4 cups (950 ml) cold water. Add simple syrup if desired for extra sweetness and stir well. Taste and adjust sweetness.
  3. Mix the Pitcher: Pour the cooled sweet tea and Arnold Palmer lemon mixture into a large pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Add the Vodka: Pour in 2 cups (480 ml) vodka and stir to incorporate. Taste test to ensure alcohol level suits your preference.
  5. Chill and Garnish: Add plenty of ice cubes or large ice blocks to the pitcher. Float lemon slices and fresh mint sprigs on top. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not add vodka to hot tea to avoid warming the alcohol and altering flavor. Use fresh lemon juice for best brightness. Adjust sweetness carefully and chill before serving to prevent dilution. Garnish with lemon slices and mint for best presentation. Can be made ahead by brewing tea and refrigerating; mix lemon juice and vodka just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet tea vodka, Arnold Palmer, summer cocktail, refreshing drink, vodka cocktail, iced tea cocktail, easy pitcher recipe