This Easy Cherry Iced Tea is a refreshing summer drink you’ll love. With sweet cherry flavor mixed into iced tea, it’s the perfect way to cool down!
I enjoy sipping this on hot days while lounging outside. It’s so easy to make, just brew tea, add cherries, and chill. Cheers to refreshing drinks! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Tea: I prefer using black tea for its strong flavor, but you can try green tea or herbal tea for a different taste. If you’re caffeine-sensitive, herbal teas like chamomile or hibiscus work great too!
Cherry Juice/Syrup: While cherry juice gives a pure cherry flavor, use a cherry syrup for extra sweetness. If cherries are hard to find, you can substitute with other fruit juices like raspberry or cranberry for a twist.
Sugar/Sweetener: Adjusting sugar is a personal choice. You can use honey, agave syrup, or any artificial sweetener if looking for a healthier option. Start with less; you can always add more if needed!
Fresh or Frozen Cherries: If you can’t find fresh cherries, frozen ones are a perfect alternative and often cheaper. Just make sure they are unsweetened. They also add a lovely chill to the drink!
How Do I Make the Perfect Iced Tea without Bitter Flavor?
Steeping tea for too long can make it bitter, so timing is key! Follow these quick tips:
- Use boiling water, but remove it from heat before adding the tea bags.
- Steep the tea for about 5-7 minutes, adjusting based on your taste preferences.
- Remove the tea bags once done to prevent bitterness.
Let the tea cool down completely before mixing with cherry juice. This helps to preserve its flavor without becoming overly steeped!
Easy Cherry Iced Tea Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups water
- 4 black tea bags (or your preferred tea)
- 1 cup cherry juice or cherry syrup
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar or sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- Ice cubes
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cherry iced tea recipe will take about 15 minutes of active preparation time. You’ll also need to chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving for the best taste. So, in total, prepare to spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can enjoy this delightful drink on a hot summer day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Water:
Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil in a pot or kettle. This is the base for your iced tea!
2. Steep the Tea:
Once the water is boiling, remove it from heat. Add the tea bags and let them steep for about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer a stronger tea, feel free to steep a little longer!
3. Sweeten the Tea:
After steeping, take out the tea bags and stir in sugar or your chosen sweetener while the tea is still warm. This helps it dissolve completely so your iced tea is nice and sweet!
4. Cool It Down:
Let the tea sit at room temperature until it cools down completely. You want it cool before combining it with the cherry juice.
5. Mix in the Cherries:
In a large pitcher, mix together the cooled tea, cherry juice or syrup, and the pitted cherries. Stir well to combine all those delicious flavors!
6. Chill the Drink:
Place the pitcher in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve over Ice:
When you’re ready to enjoy, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the cherry iced tea over the top. It’s all about that refreshing chill!
8. Garnish (Optional):
If you want to make it look extra special, add some lemon slices or garnish with additional cherries on top!
9. Enjoy!
Sip away and enjoy this refreshing cherry iced tea chilled on a warm summer day! Trust me, it’s a real treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Green Tea Instead of Black Tea?
Absolutely! Green tea adds a different flavor profile and works wonderfully with cherry juice. Just be sure to steep it for a shorter time (about 3-5 minutes) to avoid bitterness.
What If I Don’t Have Cherry Juice or Syrup?
No worries! You can substitute with other fruit juices like raspberry, cranberry, or even pomegranate. Each will give a unique taste, so feel free to experiment!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Iced Tea?
Leftover cherry iced tea can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a stir before serving, as the flavors may settle!
Can I Make This Iced Tea Without Sugar?
Absolutely! You can omit the sugar or use a sugar substitute like honey, agave syrup, or stevia for a healthier option. Adjust according to your taste preference!
