Sweet Tea

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, soothing embrace of a perfectly brewed sweet tea recipe. Imagine sipping a glass on a warm afternoon, the sun tickling your skin while the refreshing blend of sugar and tea dances on your palate. It’s a drink that whispers tales of summer picnics, backyard barbecues, and lazy Sunday afternoons. refreshing carrot and raisin salad The aroma wafts through the air, inviting you to take that first glorious sip, and suddenly you’re transported to a world where worries dissolve like sugar in hot water. For more inspiration, check out this herbed tuna salad recipe.

Growing up in the South, sweet tea was more than just a beverage; it was an essential part of life. I remember my grandmother’s porch swing creaking gently as she poured her famous sweet tea into Mason jars, each drop promising refreshment and comfort. Whether we were celebrating birthdays or simply enjoying a day together, her sweet tea was always the star of the show. It’s perfect for family gatherings or when you want to impress friends with your culinary prowess.

I still remember my friends’ faces lighting up when I served this at my last barbecue—sweet tea truly brings people together.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Water: Use filtered water for the cleanest taste; avoid tap water if it’s heavily chlorinated.
• Black Tea Bags: Choose strong black tea bags for rich flavor; I prefer Lipton or Tetley for authenticity.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is traditional; feel free to adjust sweetness based on your preference.
• Lemon Slices: Fresh lemon slices add a zesty kick and brighten up the flavor beautifully.
• Ice Cubes: Use plenty of ice cubes to chill your drink quickly without diluting it too much.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare your kitchen; we’re about to embark on a sweet adventure!

Boil the Water: Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. It should give off steam and bubble vigorously before proceeding.

Add Tea Bags: Once boiling, remove from heat and add 4-6 black tea bags based on your strength preference. Allow them to steep for about 5 minutes until fragrant.

Sweeten It Up: Carefully remove the tea bags and stir in one cup of granulated sugar while the mixture is still warm. hearty autumn grain salad This helps dissolve the sugar easily—no graininess allowed!

Cool It Down: Pour the sweetened tea into a pitcher and add another 4 cups of cold water. Stir well and let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Serve with Style: Fill tall glasses with ice cubes and pour in the chilled sweet tea. Garnish each glass with fresh lemon slices for that extra zing!

Enjoying this classic sweet tea recipe will turn any moment into something special. Whether you sip alone or share it with friends, every gulp promises blissful refreshment! spiced granola to enjoy with sweet tea.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Brew your tea first, then dissolve sugar in hot water for an even sweetness. Add ice as needed, creating a refreshing balance.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding fresh mint or lemon slices to enhance flavor. Experiment with different tea blends for a personalized twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store sweet tea in the fridge in an airtight container. Serve cold and enjoy within a week for best taste.

I once made sweet tea for my family reunion, and they declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” I still hold that compliment close to my heart! For more inspiration, check out this blueberry cream cheese bread recipe.

FAQ

What type of tea is best for sweet tea?

Black tea is traditional, but green or herbal teas can also work well.

Can I use artificial sweeteners in my sweet tea recipe?

cozy baked oatmeal recipe.

Yes, you can substitute sugar with your favorite artificial sweetener, adjusting to taste.

How long does homemade sweet tea last?

Homemade sweet tea stays fresh for about 5 to 7 days when properly stored in the refrigerator.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Sweet Tea

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• Author: Gordon Calloway
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Sweet tea is a beloved Southern classic that embodies the essence of summer. This refreshing drink combines robust black tea with just the right amount of sugar, creating a perfectly balanced beverage that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a sunny afternoon or at a festive gathering, each sip offers a nostalgic taste of home.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups water
• 4–6 black tea bags (Lipton or Tetley recommended)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups cold water
• Fresh lemon slices (for garnish)
• Ice cubes (as needed)

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Instructions

1. Boil 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan until it reaches a rolling boil.
2. Remove from heat and add 4-6 black tea bags. Steep for 5 minutes.
3. Remove tea bags and stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar while the mixture is still warm.
4. Pour the sweetened tea into a pitcher and add 4 cups of cold water. Stir well and let cool completely.
5. Serve over ice in tall glasses and garnish with fresh lemon slices.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Brew
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg