Method

Base Tea

Bring water to a boil

Pour 8 cups water into a kettle or saucepan and bring to a rolling boil.

Steep tea

Place 4 black tea bags in a heatproof pitcher. Pour the boiling water over the tea bags, cover, and steep 5 to 7 minutes for a balanced strength (longer for stronger tea).

Remove tea bags

Remove and discard the tea bags, gently pressing against the side of the pitcher with a spoon to extract flavor (do not squeeze harshly or it may become bitter). Let the tea cool slightly at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.

Sweetener (optional)

For granulated sugar (hot method)

While tea is still warm (not boiling), add up to 1 cup granulated sugar and stir until completely dissolved. Adjust quantity to taste (start with 1/4–1/2 cup if unsure).

For simple syrup (cold-friendly)

If you prefer using simple syrup, make it by combining equal parts sugar and water (e.g., 1 cup sugar + 1 cup water), heating until sugar dissolves, then cooling. Add the desired amount of cooled simple syrup to the brewed tea and stir to combine.

No sweetener

If unsweetened tea is desired, skip adding sugar or syrup; you can sweeten individual glasses later to taste.

Strawberry Iced Tea Variation

Prepare strawberry purée

Place 1 cup hulled and quartered fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor. Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice if using. Pulse until smooth. Optional: strain through a fine mesh sieve for a clear tea, or keep pulp for texture.

Combine with tea

Stir the strawberry purée into the cooled sweetened or unsweetened tea. Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon. Chill the combined mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.

Raspberry Iced Tea Variation

Prepare raspberry purée

Place 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries in a blender or food processor. Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice if using. Pulse until smooth and optionally pass through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds.

Combine with tea

Stir the raspberry purée into the cooled sweetened or unsweetened tea. Adjust sweetness as needed. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

To Serve

Fill glasses

Fill glasses with ice (about 1/2 cup ice per 8-12 oz glass). Pour the chilled tea (regular, strawberry, or raspberry) over the ice, leaving a little room at top for garnish.

Garnish and finish

Garnish with lemon slices, a few fresh berries, and a sprig of mint if desired. Serve immediately. Leftover tea keeps covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Fresh Brewed Iced Tea Recipe