John Daly Drink Recipe (Spiked Arnold Palmer Cocktail)

I have been drinking this John Daly Drink for as long as I can remember! Growing up, I loved a classic Arnold Palmer drink, which is half lemonade and half iced tea. This John Daly cocktail is an adult (aka alcoholic) version of the Arnold Palmer. My recipe combines homemade lemonade, freshly brewed tea, and smooth vodka for the ultimate summer cocktail. You’ll sip on this drink all summer long—it’s the perfect beverage for the golf course or watching the tour at home!

We are huge golf fans in our home, and we love paying homage to the great American golfer John Daly (and Arnold Palmer) by sipping on this drink!  This is the perfect beverage for enjoying in your back yard on a hot summer day. The bitter black tea and the sweet lemon juice strike the perfect balance. If you’re a fan of lemony recipes, try my Limoncello Martini or Limoncello Spritz! Another great golf cocktail is my Transfusion drink!

Ingredients

• Black Tea Bags –  Black tea adds robust flavor and color to the iced tea base. It complements the tartness of the lemonade and the alcohol. Look for high-quality tea bags or loose-leaf tea. Steep the tea bags for the recommended time to avoid bitterness!
• Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice –  Lemon juice provides the bright, citrusy flavor that defines an Arnold Palmer. Choose ripe, heavy lemons for juicing. Rolling them on a counter before juicing helps release more juice. Strain the juice for a smoother consistency.
• Vodka – Vodka has a nice clean flavor while still providing an alcoholic kick! Use a quality vodka that is smooth and not overly harsh. Adjust the amount to suit your preference for alcohol content. This would be perfect with lemon-infused or sweet tea vodka! 
• Lemon Slice / Lemon Wheel –  Lemon slices add some brightness and color to the John Daly cocktail.  Slice thinly and remove the seeds before adding to the drink.
• Sprigs of Mint – Fresh mint leaves give the drink a subtle minty flavor and a vibrant pop of freshness. Gently slap the mint leaves before garnishing to release their aromatic oils. 

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: First, we must brew the tea! Boil 2 cups of water, then remove the pot from the heat and add the tea bags. Let the tea steep for 5-7 minutes. Then, remove the tea bags and let the tea cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Add the 1 ½ cups of cold water to the lemon and sugar mixture.

Step 4: Stir the lemon juice, sugar, and water well until combined.

Step 5: Add your cooled black tea to the large pitcher with the homemade lemonade. 
Then, add the vodka.  Start with ½ cup and adjust according to your taste.

Step 6: Chill your batch cocktail in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. Serve over ice, garnished with lemon slices and fresh mint.

Tips and Notes

• Balance the Sweetness – Taste your lemonade mixture before combining it with the tea. You can adjust the amount of sugar or lemon juice to fit your own preference!
• Steeping Tea Bags –  When you steep the black tea bags, follow the recommended time closely to avoid bitterness. If you prefer a stronger tea flavor, steep for a slightly longer duration rather than using more tea bags.
• Chilling Time – Allow the combined Arnold Palmer mixture to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures a refreshing, cold beverage.

Did you try this recipe? I’d love to see it! Tag @alliehagerty on Instagram and leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review below!