There’s a certain magic in a drink that perfectly balances sweet and tart. When that drink combines two beloved classics iced tea and lemonade it’s bound to become a sensation. Enter the Sunjoy, a beverage that has captured the taste buds of many, rising from a fan-favorite “secret menu” item to a star player on fast-food menus.
The Story Behind the Sunjoy Drink
While the combination of iced tea and lemonade isn’t new, golf legend Arnold Palmer famously ordered his own version and for decades the Sunjoy has carved out its own identity. Before it had an official name, Chick-fil-A customers would often ask for a mix of the chain’s freshly-brewed iced tea and lemonade. This popular off-menu request was a well-known secret among regulars.
Sunjoy Variations: Get Creative
One of the best things about the Sunjoy drink is its versatility. While the classic combination is delightful on its own, a few simple tweaks can create a whole new flavor experience. Chick-fil-A itself often introduces seasonal variations like White Peach and Cherry Berry.
Here are some popular ways to customize your Sunjoy at home:
- Diet Sunjoy: For a lower-calorie option, use unsweetened iced tea and a diet or sugar-free lemonade.
- Sparkling Sunjoy: Top off your drink with a splash of sparkling water or club soda for a fizzy kick.
- Flavored Lemonade Sunjoy: Swap regular lemonade for strawberry, raspberry, or mango lemonade to add a fruity twist.
- Herbal Sunjoy: Muddle fresh herbs like mint or basil at the bottom of your glass before adding the Sunjoy for an aromatic, garden-fresh flavor.
- Spiced Sunjoy: During cooler months, infuse your tea with a cinnamon stick or a slice of ginger to create a warm and cozy version.
- Fruit-Infused Sunjoy: Add fresh berries, peach slices, or extra citrus wedges to your pitcher to let the flavors meld.
- Boozy Sunjoy: Turn it into a refreshing adult beverage by adding a shot of vodka, gin, or light rum.
- Frozen Sunjoy Slush: Blend your Sunjoy with a generous amount of ice for a frosty treat on a hot day.
- Iced Coffee Sunjoy: For a bold, caffeinated twist, try mixing lemonade with cold brew or iced coffee instead of tea. It’s unconventional but surprisingly delicious!
How to Make Your Own Sunjoy Drink
Why wait for your next fast-food run? You can easily create a refreshing pitcher of Sunjoy at home. The key is to use quality ingredients and find the perfect balance of tea and lemonade for your taste.
Yields: 1 gallon
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Sweet Tea:
- 8 cups water, divided
- 2 family-size black tea bags (or 8-10 regular tea bags)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- For the Lemonade:
- 8 cups of your favorite lemonade (store-bought or homemade)
- For Serving:
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and fresh mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brew the Tea: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. Remove from the heat and add the tea bags. Let them steep for about 5-7 minutes, depending on your desired strength.
- Sweeten the Tea: Remove the tea bags without squeezing them (squeezing can release bitter tannins). While the tea is still hot, stir in the sugar until it is completely dissolved.
- Cool it Down: Pour the hot, sweet tea into a gallon-sized pitcher. Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water to cool it down.
- Combine: Add the 8 cups of lemonade to the pitcher with the sweet tea.
- Chill: Stir well to combine everything. Refrigerate the pitcher for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and chill thoroughly.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour the Sunjoy, and garnish with a fresh lemon slice or a sprig of mint.
Health and Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Medium Serving |
| Calories | 160-240 |
| Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 5mg |
| Carbohydrates | 44g – 60g |
| Sugars | 42g – 58g |
| Protein | 0g |
For a healthier alternative, you can make a Diet Sunjoy by combining unsweetened iced tea and diet lemonade, which significantly reduces the calorie and sugar content to nearly zero. Making it at home gives you full control over the amount of sugar, allowing you to create a version that fits your dietary needs.
Sunjoy vs. Other Beverages
How does the Sunjoy stack up against other popular mixed drinks? Its closest relative is Arnold Palmer. The main difference is that a classic Arnold Palmer is typically made with unsweetened iced tea, while a Sunjoy uses sweet tea, making it a sweeter, more Southern-style drink.
Compared to sodas, a Sunjoy often contains similar sugar levels but can feel more refreshing due to the real tea and lemon juice. Unlike many commercially bottled iced teas, which can contain preservatives, a freshly made Sunjoy offers a brighter, more natural flavor.
Craft Your Perfect Glass of Sunshine
The Sunjoy drink is more than just a menu item; it’s a perfect example of how simple, quality ingredients can be combined to create something truly special. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing beverage that’s easy to love and even easier to make.
