This Easy Cherry Iced Tea is perfect for hot summer days. Just brew some tea, mix in cherry juice, and chill it! It’s sweet, refreshing, and oh-so-simple to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Tea: Brewed black tea is the base of this recipe. You can use any kind of black tea like English Breakfast or Earl Grey for different flavors. If you prefer, green or herbal teas can also add a unique twist!
Cherry Juice: Tart cherry juice is my favorite for its balanced flavor. If you can’t find it, regular cherry juice works too. You can also use mixed berry juices for a fun variation.
Sugar or Honey: Sweetness is optional. You can use less or none at all if you like it less sweet. Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives if you want something different.
Water: Cold water is typically used, but for some fizz, sparkling water is a treat! You can even use flavored sparkling water for an extra layer of taste.
How Do You Brew Tea Perfectly?
Brewed tea is fundamental to making great iced tea. Here’s how to get the perfect brew:
- Use fresh, filtered water for the best taste.
- Keep your steeping time to around 5 minutes; too long can make it bitter.
- Cool your tea completely before mixing in cherry juice to keep it refreshing.
Straining is key! Strain your tea if you’re using loose leaves to prevent any sediment in your iced tea. Happy brewing!
Easy Cherry Iced Tea Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups brewed black tea (cooled)
- 1 cup cherry juice (preferably tart cherry juice)
- 2 tbsp sugar or honey (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cold water or sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cherries, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cherry iced tea takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a bit of time for the tea to cool. If you can chill the tea in advance, it will be ready to serve quickly when you’re ready to enjoy it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brew the Tea:
Start by brewing 4 cups of black tea. You can use tea bags or loose leaf tea—whichever you prefer. Let the tea steep for 5 minutes, then remove the tea bags or strain out the loose leaves. Once brewed, allow the tea to cool to room temperature or pop it in the fridge until it’s nice and chilled.
2. Mix in the Cherry Juice:
In a large pitcher, pour in the cooled tea and add the cherry juice. If you’d like your iced tea sweeter, feel free to add sugar or honey at this stage. Stir well until everything is nicely combined and the sweetener is fully dissolved.
3. Add Water for Fizz:
To lighten the flavor, add 1 cup of cold water or switch it up and use sparkling water for a refreshing fizz. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
4. Serve Over Ice:
Grab some glasses and fill them with ice cubes. Pour the delicious cherry iced tea over the ice, filling each glass to your liking.
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
For a lovely presentation, garnish your iced tea with fresh cherries and lemon slices if desired. This makes every sip even more delightful!
6. Ready to Refresh:
Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing, fruity cherry iced tea—perfect for any warm summer day!
This beautiful reddish iced tea is not just pleasing to the eye, but it’s also soothing and incredibly refreshing. The bright lemon slice adds a zesty note that perfectly complements the sweet cherry flavor, making it a summer favorite!
FAQ for Easy Cherry Iced Tea Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Tea?
Absolutely! While black tea is traditional, you can also use green tea or herbal tea for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that steeping times may vary slightly depending on the type of tea you choose.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
You can easily adjust the sweetness to your liking! If you prefer it less sweet, start with a smaller amount of sugar or honey and gradually add more after tasting. Sugar alternatives like agave syrup or stevia work well too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur.
Can I Make This in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the tea and cherry juice mixture up to a day ahead of time. Just refrigerate it and add ice and garnishes when you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste!
