Lemon Iced Tea Recipe

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Last Updated on June 22, 2024 by Toya

This lemon iced tea recipe is a refreshing and tangy beverage perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a cooling drink. This drink is the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors that is simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients.

If you’ve been on the lookout for a refreshing lemon iced tea recipe, then continue reading to see how to make it.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups water
  • 4 black tea bags (or green tea bags, if preferred)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
  • Lemon slices, for garnish
  • Ice cubes
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

How to make lemon iced tea

  1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized pot.
  2. Once the water is boiling, remove it from heat and add the tea bags. Let the tea steep for about 4-7 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea. Remove the tea bags and discard them.
  3. While the tea is still warm, add the sugar and stir until it is completely dissolved.
  4. Next, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Make sure to adjust the amount of lemon juice and sugar according to your taste preference.
  5. Allow the iced tea to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to a pitcher and refrigerate until chilled.
  6. To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled lemon tea over the ice. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves if desired.

Possible Variations

  1. Herbal Lemon Iced Tea:
    Substitute black tea bags with your favorite herbal tea, such as chamomile, peppermint, or hibiscus. This adds a unique flavor and can be caffeine-free.
  2. Honey Lemon Iced Tea:
    Replace the granulated sugar with honey for a natural sweetener. Start with 1/3 cup of honey and adjust according to your taste.
  3. Spiced Lemon Iced Tea:
    Add a few slices of fresh ginger and a cinnamon stick to the boiling water before steeping the tea bags. Remove the ginger and cinnamon before adding the lemon juice.
  4. Fruit-Infused Lemon Iced Tea:
    Add a handful of fresh berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries) to the tea while it’s cooling. The fruit will infuse the tea with additional flavor and a touch of natural sweetness.
  5. Mint Lemon Iced Tea:
    Add a handful of fresh mint leaves while steeping the tea bags. Remove the mint leaves before adding the lemon juice for a refreshing minty flavor.

Useful tips and tricks

  • Adjust the sweetness and lemoniness to your preference. You can always add more sugar or lemon juice if needed.
  • For a stronger tea flavor, use more tea bags or steep for a longer time.
  • Make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before serving as the lemon juice might settle at the bottom.

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