Beat the heat with these cooling and delicious iced tea recipes that make for perfect non-alcoholic beverages for any occasion. From classic iced tea to innovative flavor combinations, we've got you covered with an array of recipes sure to please your palate.
Classic Iced Tea
Start with the basics. Classic iced tea is a timeless favorite that never fails to impress. To make this refreshing beverage, you'll need:
- 6 cups water
- 4-6 tea bags (black tea or green tea)
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- Lemon slices or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan, remove from heat, and add the tea bags. Allow the tea to steep for 3-5 minutes, then remove the tea bags. Stir in the sugar until dissolved. Add the remaining 2 cups of water and refrigerate until chilled. Serve over ice with lemon slices or mint leaves for a classic touch.
Fruit-Infused Iced Tea
Take your iced tea to the next level with fruit-infused flavors. Try this recipe for a refreshing and visually appealing beverage:
- 6 cups water
- 4-6 tea bags (black tea or herbal tea)
- Assorted fruits (e.g., strawberries, peaches, or berries)
- Fresh herbs (e.g., basil or mint)
- 1/2 cup sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
Boil 4 cups of water and steep the tea bags for 5-7 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the fruit by slicing or mashing it for better infusion. In a large pitcher, combine the fruit, fresh herbs, and sweetener. Once the tea is ready, pour it over the fruit mixture and stir well. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until cold. Serve over ice with extra fruit slices or herb sprigs for a burst of flavor and color.
Matcha Mint Iced Tea
For a unique twist on iced tea, try this matcha mint variation that's both refreshing and energizing:
- 4 cups water
- 3-4 teaspoons matcha powder
- 1/4 cup honey or agave nectar
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
Boil 2 cups of water and whisk in the matcha powder until fully dissolved. Add the honey or agave nectar and mix well. In a separate container, muddle the mint leaves to release their flavors. Pour the hot matcha mixture over the muddled mint and add the remaining 2 cups of cold water. Refrigerate until chilled. Serve over ice with a sprig of fresh mint for an invigorating and unique beverage experience.
Iced Tea Lemonade
Combine two classic favorites into one delightful drink with this recipe for iced tea lemonade:
- 6 cups water
- 4-6 tea bags (black tea)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Lemon slices for garnish
Boil 4 cups of water and steep the tea bags for 3-5 minutes. Stir in the sugar until dissolved, then add the remaining 2 cups of water. Once the tea is cooled to room temperature, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Refrigerate until cold. Serve the iced tea lemonade over ice with extra lemon slices for a tangy and refreshing beverage.
Sparkling Iced Tea
Add some fizz to your iced tea with this simple and delightful recipe for sparkling iced tea:
- 6 cups water
- 4-6 tea bags (herbal tea or fruit tea)
- 1/2 cup sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
- Soda water or sparkling water
- Fruit slices or berries for garnish (optional)
Prepare the tea by boiling 4 cups of water and steeping the tea bags for 5-7 minutes. Stir in the sweetener, then add the remaining 2 cups of water. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until cold. To serve, pour the chilled tea over ice and top with soda water for a refreshing and effervescent twist. Garnish with fruit slices or berries for an extra pop of flavor.