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Refreshing Spiked Arnold Palmer Bourbon Cocktail

spiked arnold palmer bourbon cocktail - featured image
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A simple and refreshing summer cocktail that combines the smoky warmth of bourbon with the crispness of black tea and fresh lemon juice. Perfect for backyard BBQs and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz bourbon whiskey (e.g., Buffalo Trace or Woodford Reserve)
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about one medium lemon)
  • 6 oz brewed black tea (Earl Grey or English Breakfast, strong)
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, homemade or store-bought)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon wedges or slices for garnish
  • Fresh mint (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil about 8 oz (240 ml) of water and pour over 1-2 black tea bags in a heatproof cup or pitcher. Steep for 5-7 minutes for a strong flavor. Remove tea bags and let tea cool to room temperature (about 15 minutes) or chill in fridge for 10 minutes.
  2. Make simple syrup if not using store-bought: combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan, heat gently while stirring until sugar dissolves, then cool.
  3. Roll the lemon on the counter, cut and squeeze to get about 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice. Strain seeds if needed.
  4. In a mixing glass or pitcher, combine 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon, 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup, and 6 oz (180 ml) cooled black tea. Stir well for about 15 seconds until fully blended.
  5. Fill a highball glass or mason jar with ice cubes (about 1 cup or 240 ml). Pour the mixed cocktail over the ice.
  6. Garnish with a lemon wedge or slice and a sprig of fresh mint if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use good-quality bourbon like Buffalo Trace or Woodford Reserve for smoothness. Adjust simple syrup to taste for sweetness. Brew tea for 5-7 minutes to avoid bitterness. Cool tea before mixing to prevent ice melting too fast. For a milder drink, reduce bourbon to 1.5 oz and add sparkling water. Non-alcoholic version: omit bourbon and add sparkling water or ginger ale.

Nutrition

Keywords: Arnold Palmer, bourbon cocktail, summer drink, iced tea cocktail, refreshing cocktail, bourbon, lemon, simple syrup

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/refreshing-spiked-arnold-palmer-bourbon-cocktail-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-summer/