Iced Tea Recipe

Make Iced Tea Recipe in just 1h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Time1h 30m

Serves6

Last updated Jul 14, 2026

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Ingredients

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1
Bring water to a boil
Pour 6 cups of fresh cold water into a kettle or saucepan and bring to a rolling boil.
2
Steep tea
Remove the water from heat. Add 6 black tea bags (or equivalent loose-leaf in an infuser). Cover and steep for 5 minutes for a balanced strength (4 minutes for lighter, 7 minutes for stronger).
3
Remove tea bags
After steeping, remove the tea bags (do not squeeze aggressively to avoid bitterness). If using loose leaf, lift out the infuser or strain the tea into a heatproof container.
4
Cool to room temperature
Let the brewed tea cool to room temperature on the counter for 20–30 minutes, or place the container in an ice bath to accelerate cooling.

5
Make simple syrup (if using granulated sugar)
If you chose granulated sugar: combine 1/4 cup hot water with 1 cup sugar in a heatproof measuring cup or bowl and stir until completely dissolved, creating a concentrated simple syrup. Alternatively use 1 cup pre-made simple syrup.
6
Incorporate sweetener
While the brewed tea is still slightly warm (or at room temperature), stir in the simple syrup (or dissolved sugar). Start with 1/2 cup and taste, adding up to 1 cup total depending on desired sweetness. Stir until evenly combined.

7
Add citrus and chill
Stir in 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice to the sweetened (or unsweetened) tea if using. Transfer the tea to a pitcher and refrigerate until cold, at least 1 hour (or add ice to serve immediately, keeping in mind ice will dilute).
8
Prepare glasses
Fill serving glasses with ice cubes (about 1 cup per glass). Add a few mint leaves and a lemon slice to each glass for garnish if desired.
9
Serve
Pour chilled tea over the ice in each glass. Taste and adjust with additional simple syrup or lemon juice as needed. Serve immediately.
10
Storage
Cover and refrigerate leftover iced tea for up to 3–4 days. If tea becomes too strong after refrigeration, dilute with cold water to taste.

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