Refreshing Iced Tea Recipe

A perfectly balanced, easy-to-make pitcher of classic iced tea, ready to be customized with fresh citrus or mint.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Servings: 8 glasses

Course: Beverage, Summer Drink

Cuisine: American

Calories: 758

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Tea Concentrate

8 bags Black Tea Bags Use standard size, high-quality tea.
4 cups Boiling Water
1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Adjust to taste
1 cup Cold Water

For Serving

6 cups Cold Water Or enough to fill pitcher
1 large Lemon Sliced, for garnish
1/2 cup Ice Cubes For immediate serving

Method

Instructions

In a heat-safe pitcher or large measuring cup, combine the 8 tea bags with 4 cups of boiling water.
Steep the tea bags undisturbed for precisely 5 minutes. Do not over-steep, as this can lead to bitterness.
Remove the tea bags completely. While the tea is still hot, stir in the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until it is fully dissolved.
Stir in the remaining 1 cup of cold water to begin the cooling process and concentrate the flavor.
Pour the tea concentrate into your final serving pitcher. Add the remaining 6 cups of cold water and stir well to combine.
Chill the iced tea in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor. Serve over ice with a slice of fresh lemon.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, steep a few sprigs of fresh mint along with the tea bags. If you prefer unsweetened tea, omit the sugar and adjust the final water content accordingly.