Healthy Homemade Iced Tea

A refreshing and naturally sweetened homemade iced tea, perfect for a hot day. Uses black tea bags and fresh lemon.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings: 8 cups

Course: Beverage, Drink

Cuisine: American

Calories: 35

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Tea Concentrate

8 black tea bags Use high-quality bags for best flavor
4 cups boiling water
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup Adjust to taste, or omit for no added sugar

Finishing

4 cups cold water
1 large lemon Juiced
1 cup ice cubes For serving

Method

Instructions

Place the 8 black tea bags into a heat-safe pitcher or large bowl.
Pour the 4 cups of boiling water over the tea bags. Steep for 5 to 7 minutes, depending on desired strength. Do not over-steep, or the tea may become bitter.
Remove and discard the tea bags. While the tea is still hot, stir in the honey or maple syrup until fully dissolved.
Add the 4 cups of cold water and the fresh lemon juice to the pitcher. Stir well to combine.
Refrigerate the tea concentrate for at least 30 minutes to chill completely.
To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the chilled iced tea over the ice. Garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired.

Notes

For an herbal variation, substitute chamomile or peppermint tea bags. To make a quick batch, skip refrigeration and add extra cold water and ice immediately after mixing.