8 Chilled Iced Tea Recipes for Hot Summer Days

When the summer sun is blazing, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a chilled glass of iced tea. Whether you’re relaxing in the backyard or hosting a garden party, these recipes are perfect for savoring the season. From the sweet Peach Mint to the floral Lavender Earl Grey, each sip offers a delicious escape from the heat. Craving something with a tropical flair? Let’s discover these delightful iced tea recipes together.

Classic Lemon Iced Tea

There’s nothing quite as invigorating as a tall glass of Classic Lemon Iced Tea on a warm day. This timeless beverage combines the robust flavor of black tea with the zesty brightness of fresh lemons, creating a perfect harmony that’s both energizing and soothing.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just looking to enjoy a relaxing afternoon, this recipe will help you craft a delightful drink that’s sure to please everyone.

To achieve the perfect Classic Lemon Iced Tea, it’s important to balance the strength of the tea with the tang of the lemon and the sweetness of sugar. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for family meals or small get-togethers. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a homemade iced tea that’s as delicious as it’s invigorating.

Ingredients (Serving Size: 4-6 People):

• 6 cups of water
• 4 black tea bags
• 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• Lemon slices for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Boil the Water: Start by bringing 6 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Once boiling, remove the pan from heat.
2. Steep the Tea: Add the 4 black tea bags to the hot water. Allow the tea to steep for 5-7 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea. After steeping, remove the tea bags and let the tea cool to room temperature.
3. Prepare the Lemon Juice: While the tea is cooling, juice the lemons to yield about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Strain the juice to remove any seeds or pulp if desired.
4. Sweeten the Tea: In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea and sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
5. Add Lemon Juice: Pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice into the sweetened tea. Stir well to guarantee everything is evenly mixed.
6. Chill the Tea: Refrigerate the lemon iced tea for at least 1-2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
7. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled lemon iced tea over the ice. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon before serving.

Extra Tips:

For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh mint or a splash of sparkling water just before serving to give your iced tea an invigorating twist.

If you prefer a less sweet tea, adjust the amount of sugar to your liking or try using a natural sweetener like honey.

Remember to store any leftover tea in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours for the best taste.

Peach Mint Iced Tea

Peach Mint Iced Tea is a revitalizing and flavorful twist on the classic iced tea, perfect for hot summer days or any occasion where you want a cool and invigorating beverage. The combination of juicy peaches and fresh mint leaves creates a delightful taste that’s both sweet and aromatic. This recipe is simple to make and requires just a few ingredients, yet it delivers a drink that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it at picnics, barbecues, or just as a mid-day pick-me-up.

The key to a great Peach Mint Iced Tea is using ripe, juicy peaches and fresh, fragrant mint leaves. These ingredients, combined with a strong brew of black tea, form the base of this delicious drink. By allowing the flavors to meld together, you’ll achieve a perfectly balanced iced tea that’s both sweet and slightly tangy, with a hint of minty freshness. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for gatherings or simply to have a batch ready in your fridge.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 4 cups of water
• 4 black tea bags
• 2 large ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup of honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup of fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
• Ice cubes
• Peach slices and mint sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil the Water: Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Once boiling, remove from heat.
2. Steep the Tea: Add the black tea bags to the hot water. Let them steep for about 5 minutes, allowing the tea to become strong and flavorful. Remove the tea bags after steeping.
3. Prepare the Peach Mixture: In a blender, combine the sliced peaches with honey or sugar and blend until smooth. Alternatively, you can mash the peaches with a fork for a chunkier texture.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea and the peach mixture. Stir well to verify the peach puree is fully incorporated into the tea.
5. Add Mint: Add the fresh mint leaves to the pitcher, gently crushing them with a spoon to release their oils. This will infuse the tea with minty freshness.
6. Chill the Tea: Refrigerate the tea for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the tea to chill.
7. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled Peach Mint Iced Tea over the ice. Garnish with extra peach slices and mint sprigs if desired.
8. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the revitalizing taste of homemade Peach Mint Iced Tea.

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, choose peaches that are ripe and fragrant. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use frozen peaches as a substitute.

Adjust the sweetness to your preference; if you prefer a sweeter tea, simply add more honey or sugar. For a stronger mint flavor, you can steep the mint leaves in the hot tea along with the tea bags.

Finally, feel free to experiment with other types of tea, such as green or herbal, for a different twist on this classic recipe.

Berry Hibiscus Iced Tea

Berry Hibiscus Iced Tea is a revitalizing and vibrant beverage that combines the tartness of hibiscus flowers with the natural sweetness of fresh berries. Perfect for a hot summer day or any time you need a cool, flavorful drink, this iced tea offers a beautiful balance of flavors and a striking red hue.

The hibiscus flowers provide a delightful floral note that pairs wonderfully with the mixed berries, creating a complex and delicious iced tea experience.

This recipe is designed for 4-6 servings, making it ideal for gatherings or simply to keep in the fridge for a revitalizing treat. It’s simple to prepare and can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer a sweeter tea or a more tart flavor profile. Serve it over ice with a sprig of mint or a slice of lemon for an extra touch of elegance.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups water
• 4 hibiscus tea bags
• 1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1/4 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Hibiscus Tea: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and add the hibiscus tea bags. Let them steep for about 10 minutes to extract all the floral flavors. After steeping, remove the tea bags and discard them.
2. Sweeten the Tea: While the tea is still warm, stir in the honey or sugar until completely dissolved. Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sweetener as desired.
3. Add the Berries: In a blender, combine the mixed berries and blend until smooth. If you prefer a smoother drink, strain the berry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds. Add the strained berry puree to the sweetened hibiscus tea.
4. Mix and Chill: Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Pour the mixture into a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the tea to chill thoroughly.
5. Serve: To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled Berry Hibiscus Iced Tea over the top. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an aromatic touch if desired.

Extra Tips:

For a more intense berry flavor, you can increase the amount of berries or use berry-flavored hibiscus tea bags if available. If fresh berries aren’t in season, frozen berries work perfectly fine and can give the tea a thicker consistency.

If you prefer a more citrusy note, add a few slices of lemon or lime to the pitcher before chilling. Adjust the sweetness according to your preference, keeping in mind that the flavors will mellow as the tea cools. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations of berries to find your perfect blend!

Tropical Pineapple Green Iced Tea

Welcome to the invigorating world of Tropical Pineapple Green Iced Tea, a delightful concoction that’s perfect for cooling down on a warm day. This exotic blend combines the earthy notes of green tea with the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh pineapple juice, creating a beverage that’s both energizing and soothing.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, this iced tea is sure to be a hit.

To prepare this delicious drink, you’ll need to start with high-quality green tea, which forms the base of the beverage. The addition of pineapple juice not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of tropical flair. To balance the sweetness, a hint of honey is used, while fresh mint leaves provide an aromatic finish.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups water
• 4 green tea bags
• 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• Ice cubes
• Pineapple slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brew the Green Tea: Begin by bringing 4 cups of water to a gentle boil in a medium saucepan. Remove from heat and add the green tea bags. Allow the tea to steep for about 5 minutes to guarantee a robust flavor.
2. Sweeten the Tea: Once the tea has steeped, remove the tea bags and stir in the honey. Confirm the honey dissolves completely into the warm tea for a uniform sweetness.
3. Chill the Tea: Transfer the sweetened green tea to a heat-resistant pitcher. Add the fresh pineapple juice and give it a good stir. Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and allow the tea to chill for at least 1 hour.
4. Prepare the Glasses: While the tea is chilling, lightly crush the mint leaves using a mortar and pestle to release their natural oils. Place a small amount of crushed mint leaves at the bottom of each glass.
5. Serve the Tea: Once the tea is nicely chilled, fill each glass with ice cubes and pour the tea over the ice. Stir gently to combine the mint with the tea.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: If desired, garnish each glass with a fresh pineapple slice. Serve immediately and enjoy the invigorating taste of Tropical Pineapple Green Iced Tea.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use freshly squeezed pineapple juice, as it provides a more vibrant flavor compared to store-bought options. If you prefer a less sweet version, adjust the amount of honey according to your taste.

Additionally, experiment with different types of green tea to find the one that suits your palate. Remember to chill the tea thoroughly before serving for the most refreshing experience.

Finally, adding a few slices of lemon or lime can introduce a zesty twist to the drink if desired.

Lavender Earl Grey Iced Tea

Lavender Earl Grey Iced Tea is a revitalizing and aromatic beverage that combines the floral notes of lavender with the rich, citrusy flavors of Earl Grey tea. This iced tea is perfect for hot summer days when you’re in the mood for something both soothing and invigorating.

The infusion of lavender not only adds a unique twist to the classic Earl Grey but also provides a calming effect, making it an ideal drink for relaxation.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it great for small gatherings or family get-togethers. The combination of dried lavender flowers and high-quality Earl Grey tea leaves creates a delightful harmony of flavors.

To enhance the sweetness, you can use honey or sugar based on your preference, giving the tea a subtle, sweet finish. Let’s plunge into the ingredients and steps needed to create this delightful beverage.

Ingredients:

• 6 Earl Grey tea bags
• 2 tablespoons dried lavender flowers
• 6 cups boiling water
• 1/4 cup honey or sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices (for garnish)
• Fresh lavender sprigs (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tea Base:
• Boil 6 cups of water in a kettle or pot. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, remove it from the heat.
• Add the Earl Grey tea bags and dried lavender flowers into a large heatproof pitcher. Pour the boiling water over the tea and lavender.
2. Steeping:
• Allow the tea to steep for about 5-7 minutes. This will guarantee that the flavors are well-infused.
• After steeping, remove the tea bags and strain out the lavender flowers using a fine mesh strainer.
3. Sweetening:
• While the tea is still warm, stir in the honey or sugar until fully dissolved. Adjust sweetness to your taste preference.
4. Cooling:
• Let the tea cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours.
5. Serving:
• Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled Lavender Earl Grey tea over the ice.
• Garnish with lemon slices and, if desired, a sprig of fresh lavender for an aromatic touch.

Extra Tips:

To make your Lavender Earl Grey Iced Tea even more special, consider experimenting with different sweeteners like agave syrup or stevia for a healthier option.

If you prefer a stronger lavender flavor, you can add an additional tablespoon of dried lavender during the steeping process. However, be cautious as too much lavender can overpower the delicate balance of flavors.

Additionally, for a more robust tea flavor, extend the steeping time, but be mindful of potential bitterness. Remember to store any leftover tea in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 days for the best taste.

Watermelon Basil Iced Tea

Watermelon Basil Iced Tea is a rejuvenating and delicious beverage that combines the sweet and juicy flavors of watermelon with the aromatic and slightly peppery taste of basil. Perfect for hot summer days or for serving at your next backyard gathering, this iced tea isn’t only easy to make but also visually appealing with its vibrant colors.

The natural sweetness of the watermelon balances perfectly with the earthy tones of the basil, making it a delightful drink for both kids and adults.

To create this delightful drink, you’ll first need to prepare a watermelon puree that will serve as the base of your iced tea. This puree will be blended with freshly brewed tea and a hint of lemon juice to add a bit of tanginess. The addition of fresh basil leaves infuses the drink with a subtle herbal note that complements the sweetness of the watermelon.

Serve this iced tea over ice, and garnish with extra basil leaves or watermelon slices for an eye-catching presentation that will impress your guests.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 4 cups of chopped watermelon (seeds removed)
• 4 cups of water
• 4 black tea bags or 4 tablespoons of loose black tea
• 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• Optional: Watermelon slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Watermelon Puree: In a blender, combine the chopped watermelon and blend until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl or pitcher to remove any pulp, and set aside the smooth juice.
2. Brew the Tea: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat and add the tea bags (or loose tea in a tea infuser). Let it steep for about 5 minutes or until the desired strength is reached. Remove the tea bags or infuser and allow the tea to cool to room temperature.
3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea, watermelon juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the fresh basil leaves and lemon juice, stirring gently to combine the flavors.
4. Chill the Tea: Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled Watermelon Basil Iced Tea over the ice. Garnish with additional basil leaves and watermelon slices, if desired.

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, use a ripe and sweet watermelon, as this will greatly enhance the taste of the iced tea. If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can adjust the amount of sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of tea, such as green or herbal, to create variations of this rejuvenating beverage. If you’re making this ahead of time for a party, consider freezing some watermelon puree in ice cube trays to use as ice—this will keep your drink cool without diluting the flavor.

Chai Spiced Iced Tea

Chai Spiced Iced Tea is a delightful twist on the traditional iced tea, infused with the warm, aromatic spices commonly found in chai. This revitalizing beverage is perfect for both hot summer days and cozy autumn afternoons. The combination of black tea and chai spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves creates a complex flavor profile that’s both invigorating and comforting.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to enjoy a special treat at home, this recipe will guide you through crafting the perfect Chai Spiced Iced Tea.

To make a batch that serves 4-6 people, you’ll start by brewing a strong black tea, which forms the base of this drink. The spices are then added to infuse the tea with their rich flavors. Once the tea is steeped to perfection, it’s cooled down, sweetened, and served over ice. This method guarantees that each sip is bursting with the vibrant flavors of chai, balanced with the revitalizing qualities of iced tea.

Below are the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create this delicious beverage.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 6 cups water
• 4 black tea bags
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• 4 cardamom pods, slightly crushed
• 2 star anise
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
• 1/4 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large saucepan, bring 6 cups of water to a gentle boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and add the black tea bags, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, star anise, and ginger slices.
2. Steep the Tea: Allow the tea and spices to steep for about 10-15 minutes, depending on how strong you want the chai flavors to be. The longer it steeps, the more intense the flavors will become.
3. Sweeten and Flavor: Remove the tea bags and strain the spices out of the mixture. Stir in honey or sugar while the tea is still warm, adjusting the sweetness to your preference. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Cool the Tea: Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour.
5. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes, then pour the chilled chai spiced tea over the ice. Garnish with lemon slices if desired, and serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

For a more robust flavor, consider lightly toasting the spices in a dry pan before adding them to the boiling water. This will release their essential oils and enhance the overall aroma and taste of the iced tea.

You can also experiment with different sweeteners like agave syrup or coconut sugar for a unique twist. If you prefer a creamier version, add a splash of milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk.

Enjoy your Chai Spiced Iced Tea as a revitalizing complement to any meal or as a standalone treat on a sunny afternoon.

Cucumber Lime White Iced Tea

Cucumber Lime White Iced Tea is a revitalizing and invigorating beverage perfect for warm days or any time you need a cooling drink. This iced tea combines the mild and delicate flavors of white tea with the crispness of cucumber and the tangy zest of lime. The result is a revitalizing drink that not only quenches your thirst but also delights your taste buds with its subtle yet sophisticated blend of flavors.

Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy a glass in the comfort of your home for a moment of relaxation. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or small parties. The preparation involves brewing white tea and infusing it with fresh cucumber and lime to create a harmonious blend that’s both invigorating and healthful.

The use of natural ingredients guarantees that the drink remains light and revitalizing, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful but low-calorie beverage.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups water
• 4 white tea bags
• 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
• 2 limes, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Boil the Water: In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a gentle boil. Once boiling, remove the pot from heat.
2. Brew the Tea: Add the 4 white tea bags to the hot water and let them steep for about 5-7 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea. Remove the tea bags and allow the tea to cool to room temperature.
3. Prepare the Cucumber and Lime: While the tea is cooling, thinly slice the cucumber and limes. Confirm the slices are even for consistent flavor infusion.
4. Sweeten the Tea: If you prefer a sweeter iced tea, stir in 1/4 cup of honey or agave syrup into the brewed tea while it’s still warm, making sure it dissolves completely.
5. Combine Ingredients: Once the tea has cooled, add the cucumber and lime slices into the pot. Stir gently to combine and allow the mixture to infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
6. Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the infused tea over the ice. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
7. Enjoy: Serve immediately while cold, and enjoy the invigorating taste of cucumber lime white iced tea.

Extra Tips: For a stronger cucumber or lime flavor, allow the tea to infuse overnight in the refrigerator. This will enhance the flavors, making the drink even more invigorating.

You can also experiment by adding other fruits like strawberries or herbs like basil for variation. If you prefer a more robust tea flavor, increase the steeping time of the tea bags, but be cautious as over-steeping can lead to bitterness. Adjust the sweetness to your preference, or omit it altogether for a purely invigorating drink.