Refreshing Strawberry Iced Tea

This strawberry iced tea is a bright and refreshing drink perfect for cooling off on warm days. It combines the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries with bold black tea and a splash of tart lemon juice for a balanced flavor that feels both indulgent and fresh.

I made this on a whim one summer afternoon and it quickly became a staple at weekend gatherings in our backyard.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries sliced: choose ripe berries for the best flavor and color
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: essential for sweetening and drawing out the strawberry juices
• 2 cups water: base for the strawberry syrup helping to soften the fruit
• 1 cup strawberry syrup: homemade syrup that carries the strawberry flavor throughout the drink
• ½ cup granulated sugar: added to the tea to balance the natural acidity
• ½ cup fresh lemon juice: adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness
• 5 bags black tea: use a robust black tea for strong flavor that stands up to the fruit
• 6 cups water divided: part for brewing tea and part for diluting the final drink
• Ice cubes: chill and dilute slightly for refreshing serve
• Fresh mint: optional garnish adds aroma and freshness
• Sliced strawberries: optional garnish for a pretty presentation

Instructions

Build The Strawberry Syrup:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced strawberries with the ¾ cup sugar and 2 cups water. Stir occasionally while cooking for about 30 minutes until the strawberries break down and become soft. This slow cooking allows the sugar to dissolve fully and the strawberries to release their natural flavor. Remove the pan from heat and strain the mixture through a fine sieve or cheesecloth into a container. Press gently to extract as much syrup as possible then discard the solids. Let the syrup cool completely before using.

Brew The Black Tea:

In another small saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil over medium heat. Once boiling, remove from heat immediately and add the tea bags. Allow the tea to steep for 5 minutes for a strong brew, then remove and discard the tea bags. While still warm, stir in ½ cup sugar until fully dissolved.

Combine Ingredients:

Pour the cooled strawberry syrup into a large pitcher. Add the brewed sweetened tea and the remaining 4 cups of water to the pitcher. Stir to combine all the flavors. Add the fresh lemon juice and give a final gentle stir to balance the sweetness and acidity.

Serve:

Fill tall glasses generously with ice cubes and pour the strawberry iced tea over. Garnish each glass with fresh mint sprigs and sliced strawberries for a festive touch.

I remember making this with my kids on a sunny afternoon and how they loved watching the syrup bubble and bubble in the pot.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover iced tea in a sealed pitcher or jug in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the strawberry syrup in a separate airtight container to use for other drinks or desserts. Separate storage helps maintain the fresh flavor without the syrup settling or fermenting.

Ingredient Swaps

Try green tea bags for a lighter, more floral version. Use honey instead of granulated sugar for natural sweetness but add it to warm tea to dissolve easily. Lime juice works well instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus twist.

Serving Ideas

Serve with fresh berries or a slice of lemon on the rim for added flair. This iced tea pairs wonderfully with light salads, grilled chicken, or summer desserts like sorbet. Add a splash of sparkling water to turn it into a fizzy strawberry lemonade.

The key to this recipe’s success is patience during the syrup simmer and respecting the steeping time of the tea bags.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What is the best type of tea to use?

Black tea bags are recommended for a strong, full-bodied base that complements the sweetness of strawberries well.

→ How do I make the strawberry syrup?

Simmer sliced fresh strawberries with sugar and water over medium heat until soft and thickened, then strain to extract a flavorful syrup.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Yes, sugar amounts can be modified according to your preference or the natural sweetness of your strawberries.

→ What is a good garnish for presentation?

Fresh mint leaves and sliced strawberries add an appealing look and enhance flavor when served.

→ How long should the tea steep?

Allow the black tea bags to steep in hot water for about 5 minutes for optimal strength without bitterness.

→ Can this drink be made ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the strawberry syrup and tea in advance; combine and chill before serving over ice for best results.