Blackberry Basil Arnold Palmer Pitcher
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There’s nothing more iconic than an Arnold Palmer on a hot day — half black tea, half lemonade, and totally refreshing. But this version? It’s got a little something extra: juicy blackberries and fresh basil infused right into the pitcher. It’s bright, fruity, herbaceous, and so easy to make ahead for warm-weather hangs.
What I really love about this recipe is its flexibility — it’s a stunning non-alcoholic batch drink on its own, but if you’re feeling it, each guest can add their favorite spirit right into their glass. It’s the perfect DIY cocktail-meets-mocktail situation for any summer gathering.
The mix of tart lemonade and strong black tea is classic, but adding muddled blackberries and basil gives it depth, color, and just the right amount of flair. It’s not overly sweet, and the basil brings a garden-fresh edge that makes it feel a little elevated.
The make-ahead factor is a bonus — and the “add-your-own” shot method makes it customizable for any crowd, whether you’re serving friends who love bourbon, vodka, or keeping it booze-free.
Blackberry Basil Arnold Palmer Pitcher
Ingredients
- 3 cups homemade or store-bought lemonade recipe below
- 3 cups strong black tea cooled
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- ½ cup loosely packed basil leaves
- Optional: bourbon vodka, tequila, or gin for serving
- Ice and extra lemon wheels or blackberries for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, combine lemonade and black tea.
- Add blackberries and basil. Use a wooden spoon to gently muddle them in the pitcher.
- Stir everything together and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- To serve: Fill each glass with ice. Add 1–1.5 oz of your spirit of choice if desired.
- Top with the Arnold Palmer mix, garnish with basil or a blackberry, and enjoy.
Homemade Lemonade Recipe
This lemonade is tart, simple, and perfect for pitchers.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice (about 5–6 lemons)
- ¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups cold water
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of the water with sugar until dissolved. Let cool.
- In a pitcher, combine the simple syrup with lemon juice and remaining 3 cups of water.
- Stir well, taste, and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Refrigerate until chilled.
Ingredient Notes
- Black tea – Brew it strong so it holds up when chilled and diluted slightly by ice.
- Blackberries – Add sweetness and a hint of berry jam flavor. Frozen work too!
- Basil – Muddle gently to release the oils without making it bitter.
- Lemonade – Homemade is ideal, but high-quality bottled lemonade works in a pinch.
Tips & Variations
- Spirit pairings – Try bourbon for depth, gin for freshness, or vodka for a clean finish.
- Use different berries – Raspberries or strawberries would also be delicious.
- Add sparkle – Top each glass with a splash of soda water for fizz.
- Make ice cubes with berries and basil – So pretty and keeps it cold without watering it down.
When to Serve It
This pitcher is summer perfection. Serve it at:
- BBQs and backyard hangs
- Brunches and bridal showers
- Picnics or porch hangs
- Any time you want a pretty, low-effort drink that everyone loves
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