Sip Summer Joy: Ina Garten’s Bourbon Arnold Palmers Recipe

Sipping on a refreshing cocktail that blends sweet tea and zesty lemon can transport you to a summer afternoon, and Ina Garten bourbon Arnold palmers take this classic drink to new heights.

Her twist infuses the beloved beverage with a smooth bourbon kick that adds depth and complexity.

The combination of bright citrus and rich whiskey creates a harmonious balance that will delight your taste buds.

Garten’s approach to mixing drinks is always elegant and approachable, making this recipe a crowd-pleaser.

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients and balancing flavors with precision.

This cocktail promises to be the star of any gathering, offering a sophisticated spin on a timeless refreshment.

Grab your cocktail shaker and get ready to impress with this delightful summer sipper.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Calories: 240 kcal

Servings: 4

What Goes Into Ina Garten’s Bourbon Arnold Palmers

• Black Tea Bags: Robust foundation that brings deep, rich flavor and classic tea essence, choose high-quality black tea for optimal taste and aromatic experience.
• Water: Pure, filtered water ensures clean brewing and enhances the tea's natural characteristics.

• Simple Syrup, Lemon Juice: Balanced sweetness and tangy brightness that elevate the drink's complexity, use fresh lemon juice for vibrant citrus notes.

• Bourbon: Smooth, warming alcohol that adds sophisticated depth and Kentucky charm, select a quality medium-bodied bourbon for best results.

• Ice: Chills and dilutes the drink perfectly, use large clear ice cubes for slower melting and pristine presentation.
• Lemon Slices: Fresh garnish that adds visual appeal and subtle citrus aroma, choose ripe, firm lemons with bright yellow skin.

Glassware & Tools for Mixing Up Ina’s Bourbon Sips

• Large Glass Measuring Cup: Perfect for brewing strong tea precisely.
• Tea Bags: Key for creating the tea base of the cocktail.
• Glass Pitcher: Essential for mixing all ingredients smoothly.
• Kettle or Pot: Needed to boil water for tea steeping.
• Ice Cubes Tray: Critical for chilling and serving the drink.
• Stirring Spoon: Great for blending ingredients thoroughly.
• Cutting Board: Used for slicing fresh lemon garnishes.
• Sharp Knife: Helps create perfect lemon slice garnishes.

How to Make Bourbon Arnold Palmers, the Ina Garten Way

• Tea Brewing Secrets

Grab some tea bags and a measuring cup. Pour boiling water over the bags and let them dance for 10 minutes. Wave goodbye to the soggy tea bags.

• Cocktail Magic

In a pitcher, create a flavor symphony by mixing zesty lemon juice, sweet simple syrup, smooth bourbon, and cool water. Swirl in the freshly brewed tea for an extra kick.

• Chill Zone

Let the mixture hang out in the refrigerator until it’s refreshingly cold. Patience is key for maximum deliciousness.

• Serving Spectacular

Grab your favorite glasses and fill them with ice cubes. Pour the chilled liquid gold over the ice. Crown your creation with bright lemon slices for a stunning finish.

Flavor Twists to Spice Up This Summer Cocktail

• Swap bourbon for another whiskey like rye or blend different tea varieties for unique flavor profiles.
• Mix the entire recipe up to 2 days in advance, storing in a sealed pitcher for convenient entertaining and stress-free hosting.
• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled for brighter, more vibrant citrus notes that elevate the entire drink's complexity.
• Replace bourbon with non-alcoholic bourbon-style extract or additional water for a refreshing mocktail version everyone can enjoy.
• Experiment with herb-infused ice cubes, like mint or rosemary, or add a candied lemon peel for an elegant and unexpected presentation.

Sipping Ideas for Serving Ina’s Spiked Palmers

• Elevate Your Summer Gathering: Serve these bourbon Arnold Palmers at backyard barbecues or poolside parties for a sophisticated twist on a classic drink.
• Create Cocktail Bar Experience: Set up a DIY drink station with extra lemon slices, bourbon options, and garnishes so guests can customize their beverages.
• Pair with Light Bites: Complement the cocktail with grilled shrimp skewers, fresh caprese salad, or crispy chicken sliders to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Craft Elegant Presentation: Use clear glass tumblers or mason jars with crushed ice to showcase the drink's beautiful golden-amber color and floating lemon slices.

Store or Prep Ahead: Tips for Ina’s Bourbon Tea Blend

• Refrigerate Wisely: Store your bourbon Arnold Palmer in an airtight container or pitcher, keeping it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Quick Batch Prep: Make a double or triple recipe to have a refreshing drink ready throughout the week, saving time and ensuring you always have a delicious beverage on hand.
• Freeze for Later: Pour leftover mixture into ice cube trays for future cocktail enhancements or to add a boozy twist to iced tea without diluting the flavor.
• Ingredient Separation Strategy: Keep bourbon separate from the tea mixture if preparing in advance, combining just before serving to maintain optimal taste and prevent alcohol breakdown.

Ultimate Ina Garten Bourbon Arnold Palmers Recipe

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4.7 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s bourbon arnold palmers blend classic cocktail ingredients with southern charm. Refreshing lemonade meets smooth bourbon in this elegant summer sipper perfect for relaxing afternoons and social gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup (240 ml) bourbon (Maker’s Mark)
• 2 cups (475 ml) water (boiling)
• ½ cup (120 ml) lemon juice (freshly squeezed, from 3 lemons)
• ½ cup (100 g) simple syrup
• 2 tea bags (Earl Grey or English Breakfast)
• ½ lemon (halved through stem, cut into ¼-inch (6 mm) thick half-rounds)

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Instructions

1. Tea Infusion: Submerge tea bags in a measuring container and pour boiling water over them. Steep for 10 minutes to extract robust flavor, then remove and discard used tea bags.
2. Mixing Cocktail: Combine brewed tea in a large pitcher with fresh lemon juice, homemade simple syrup, bourbon whiskey, and additional water. Stir thoroughly until ingredients are perfectly blended.
3. Chilling Process: Refrigerate the mixture for 30-60 minutes, allowing flavors to harmonize and beverage to reach optimal serving temperature.
4. Serving Technique: Fill glasses halfway with ice cubes, then carefully pour the chilled tea mixture, ensuring an even and elegant distribution.
5. Final Presentation: Garnish each glass with a delicate lemon slice, creating a visually appealing and refreshing bourbon arnold palmer ready to delight guests.

Notes

• Brew Tea Perfectly: Steep tea bags for exactly 10 minutes to extract robust, full-bodied flavor without bitterness.
• Bourbon Selection Matters: Choose a smooth, high-quality bourbon that complements the tea’s natural sweetness and enhances overall drink complexity.
• Chill for Maximum Taste: Refrigerate the mixture for 30-60 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and create a harmonious, refreshing beverage.
• Garnish with Precision: Use fresh lemon slices as a final touch to add visual appeal and a bright, citrusy aroma that elevates the drink’s sensory experience.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Drinks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 240
• Sugar: 24 g
• Sodium: 5 mg
• Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg