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Ingredients
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Tea Base
Sweetener (optional)
Citrus & Flavoring (optional)
Finishing & Serving
Method
Tea Base
Steep the tea
Remove from heat. Add 6 black tea bags (or the loose-leaf equivalent in an infuser). Cover and steep for 5 to 7 minutes for full-bodied flavor; steep 3 to 4 minutes for a lighter brew. Do not over-steep longer than 8 minutes to avoid bitter tannins.
Remove tea bags
Remove tea bags or strain out the loose tea. Gently press tea bags against the side of the pot with a spoon to extract extra flavor, then discard.
Sweetener (optional)
Sweeten hot (recommended for even dissolving)
While the tea is still hot, add your chosen sweetener. If using granulated sugar, stir in 3 tablespoons until fully dissolved. If using honey, stir in 3 tablespoons until incorporated. Alternatively, add 1 cup of prepared simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water) to the finished cold tea for easier mixing and to control sweetness.
How to make simple syrup (if using)
Combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and cool. Store any unused syrup refrigerated.
Citrus & Flavoring (optional)
Add flavor: If you want citrus or herbal notes, add slices of 1 lemon and up to 4 orange slices to the brewed tea while it is still warm to gently infuse. Add 4 to 8 mint sprigs into the brew or bruise the leaves slightly and add to the pitcher once cooled for a fresh aroma.
Finishing & Serving
Cool the concentrate: Allow the sweetened/flavored hot tea to cool to room temperature (about 30–45 minutes) or place the pot in an ice bath to speed cooling.
Dilute and chill: Transfer the cooled tea to a large pitcher. Add 6 cups of cold water to dilute to desired strength (adjust more or less depending on taste). Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, at least 2 hours.
Serve: Fill glasses with ice (about 3/4 cup ice per 12-oz glass). Pour chilled iced tea over the ice. Garnish with lemon slices, orange slices, and/or mint sprigs as desired. Taste and add additional simple syrup or sweetener to taste if needed.
Storage: Keep iced tea refrigerated in a covered pitcher for up to 3 days. If cloudy after refrigeration, stir gently before serving.