Easy Homemade Arnold Palmer
Learn how to make refreshing homemade Arnold Palmer with fresh lemon juice and brewed tea. Easy recipe with healthier sweetener options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Boil 2 cups of water in a kettle over high heat until steam rises vigorously, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- 2
Pour the hot water into a heatproof pitcher and add the tea bags, allowing them to steep undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the liquid darkens to a rich amber color.
- 3
Remove and discard the tea bags, then transfer the brewed tea to a large mixing bowl.
- 4
Squeeze fresh lemons by hand or with a citrus juicer to yield 2 cups of juice, straining out pulp and seeds as you go.
- 5
Add the fresh lemon juice to the cooled tea along with the remaining 2 cups of cold water.
- 6
Stir in the honey or maple syrup until completely dissolved, tasting and adjusting sweetness as desired.
- 7
Mix in the lemon zest and sea salt, stirring gently to distribute evenly throughout the pitcher.
- 8
Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving, or pour immediately over ice if you prefer it cold right away.
- 9
Pour the Arnold Palmer into tall glasses filled with fresh ice cubes, filling each glass three-quarters full.
- 10
Top with a splash of water or additional cold tea if you'd like to dilute it slightly, then stir well to combine.
- 11
Garnish with a lemon wheel, fresh mint sprig, or both for a polished presentation.
Variations & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitute | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| white granulated sugar or simple syrup | raw honey or pure maple syrup | Natural sweeteners contain trace minerals and have a lower glycemic index, providing steadier blood sugar response without the refined sugar spike |
| bottled lemon juice | freshly squeezed lemon juice | Fresh juice contains more vitamin C, active enzymes, and natural compounds that support digestion and blood sugar regulation while avoiding preservatives |
| standard black tea | green tea or white tea | Green and white teas contain higher levels of polyphenols and antioxidants with gentler caffeine content, offering better anti-inflammatory benefits and less blood sugar impact |
| tap water or bottled water | filtered water or coconut water (for half the liquid) | Filtered water removes potential contaminants while coconut water adds natural electrolytes and minerals that support hydration and gut health |
| no herbal additions | 2-3 fresh basil leaves or a pinch of ginger powder | Herbs and spices like basil and ginger provide natural compounds that aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and support stable blood sugar levels |
Recommended Equipment
Tools that make this recipe easier
Nutrition Information
Per serving (serves 4)
| Calories | 95 |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 35mg |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 22g |
| Protein | 0g |
This recipe was extracted from the original video source using AI. Nutritional information is estimated and may vary. Not a substitute for professional dietary advice. As an Amazon Associate, AlmostChefs earns from qualifying purchases. Product links are affiliate links — they cost you nothing extra but help support the site. Read full disclaimer
