As the temperature rises and the sun beats down, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing glass of iced tea to quench your thirst. But why settle for the same old sweetened tea when you can try something new and exciting? This summer, take your tea game to the next level with our collection of 20 cold tea recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From fruity flavors to floral notes, these refreshing brews offer a world of possibilities for hot summer days. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or adventurous, we’ve got you covered with a range of teas, from green and black to herbal and white. So grab a glass, add some ice, and get ready to cool off with our top 20 cold tea recipes for summer!
Iced Peach Green Tea
Beat the heat with this sweet and revitalizing iced tea infused with juicy peaches and the subtle nuances of green tea. Perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf green tea
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Brew the green tea according to package instructions.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea and diced peaches.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add honey to taste (if desired).
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the iced peach green tea over the ice.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready when you are.
Lemon Mint Black Tea
Brighten up your day with this invigorating and refreshing tea blend, perfect for a hot summer afternoon or anytime you need a pick-me-up. This unique combination of lemon, mint, and black tea will transport you to a calming oasis.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Brew the black tea according to package instructions and let it cool.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea, lemon juice, and fresh mint leaves. Stir well to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Just before serving, add honey to taste if desired.
5. Serve the tea over ice cubes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including brewing time)
Strawberry Hibiscus Iced Tea
This sweet and tangy tea is perfect for warm weather, with the flavors of ripe strawberries and hibiscus flowers combining to create a refreshing and revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the sliced strawberries and dried hibiscus flowers to the pot. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the tea has reached your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a large pitcher or jug to remove the solids.
4. Add honey to taste, if desired.
5. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: 1 quart (4 cups)
Cold Brew Jasmine Tea
Beat the heat with a refreshing glass of cold brew jasmine tea. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for warm weather, as it’s caffeine-free and packs a soothing flavor punch.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (4 cups) water
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf jasmine green tea
– Optional: ice cubes, lemon slices, and/or honey for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large glass or ceramic container, combine the water and loose-leaf tea.
2. Steep the tea for at least 8 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor will be.
3. Strain the tea into a separate pitcher or individual glasses using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Discard the solids.
4. Serve the cold brew tea chilled, with optional ice cubes, lemon slices, and/or honey to taste.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (steeping time)
Raspberry Earl Grey Iced Tea
Combine the bright flavors of raspberries and Earl Grey tea for a refreshing summer drink. This recipe is perfect for hot days or as a unique twist on traditional iced tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 Earl Grey tea bags
– 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Brew the Earl Grey tea according to package instructions. Let it cool.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add the fresh or frozen raspberries to the pitcher. Muddle the berries with a spoon to release their flavor and color.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the tea over ice cubes. Garnish with additional raspberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Orange Spice Chai Iced Tea
Perfect for warm weather, this Orange Spice Chai Iced Tea combines the comforting flavors of chai with the brightness of citrus and spices. Brew strong black tea with a blend of warming spices, then sweeten it up with honey and orange juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup ice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– Slices of orange for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the tea leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, ginger, and cardamom. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Strain the tea into a large pitcher filled with ice.
4. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
5. Add the orange juice and stir well.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with orange slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blueberry Lavender Iced Tea
This unique blend of flavors combines the sweetness of blueberries with the subtle floral notes of lavender, creating a refreshing and rejuvenating iced tea perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and add the tea leaves. Let it steep for 5 minutes, then strain the tea into a large pitcher.
2. In a separate bowl, muddle the blueberries with a spoon or spatula until they release their juice and pulp.
3. Add the lavender buds to the tea and let it steep for an additional 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the tea again to remove the lavender buds.
5. Add the blueberry mixture to the tea and stir well.
6. Sweeten with honey, if desired.
7. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Oolong Tea
This soothing tea combines the sweet flavors of pineapple and coconut with the smooth, complex notes of oolong tea, creating a perfect blend for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf oolong tea
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Fresh pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the water to a boil, then remove from heat.
2. Add the oolong tea leaves and let steep for 3-5 minutes, or until desired strength is reached.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together pineapple juice and coconut milk.
4. Strain the tea into a large mug or teapot. Discard the tea leaves.
5. Pour in the pineapple-coconut mixture. Stir gently to combine.
6. Add honey if desired for sweetness.
7. Garnish with fresh pineapple wedges and toasted coconut flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-5 minutes
Ginger Honey Iced Green Tea
Brighten up your day with this soothing and flavorful tea infused with the warmth of ginger and the sweetness of honey. Perfect for a hot summer afternoon or a relaxing evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf green tea
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup boiling water
– Ice cubes
– Lemon slice or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large glass, combine the green tea and sliced ginger.
2. Pour in the boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a separate glass filled with ice cubes.
4. Add the honey and stir until dissolved.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
6. Garnish with a lemon slice or mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Watermelon Basil White Tea
Escape the heat with this unique blend of watermelon, basil, and white tea. The sweetness of the watermelon pairs perfectly with the subtle flavor of basil, while the white tea adds a soothing and calming touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup watermelon chunks
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 white tea bag (or 2 teaspoons loose-leaf white tea)
– 2 cups boiling water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the boiling water to a simmer.
2. Add the white tea bag (or loose-leaf tea) and let it steep for 3-5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, puree the watermelon chunks in a blender or food processor until smooth.
4. Strain the tea into a large pitcher or jug. Discard the tea bag or strain out the loose leaves.
5. Add the pureed watermelon to the tea and stir well.
6. Chop the fresh basil leaves and add them to the tea. Stir gently.
7. Taste and adjust sweetness with honey or sugar if desired.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Passionfruit Mango Iced Tea
Refresh your senses with this unique and refreshing blend of tropical flavors. This sweet and tangy tea is perfect for hot summer days or as a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 1/2 cup fresh passionfruit puree
– 1/4 cup fresh mango puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the black tea according to package instructions.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the brewed tea, passionfruit puree, and mango puree. Stir until well combined.
3. Add honey to taste and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the tea over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Vanilla Chamomile Cold Brew
Soothe your senses with this calming cold brew recipe, infused with the sweet aroma of vanilla and the gentle charm of chamomile. Perfect for a warm evening or a mid-day pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine cooled coffee, water, and vanilla extract in a large pitcher.
2. Add dried chamomile flowers and stir gently to combine.
3. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate container.
5. Discard the solids and sweeten with honey or sugar, if desired.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a chamomile flower petal or a sprinkle of vanilla powder, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4 hours to overnight (refrigeration)
Cucumber Lime Mint Iced Tea
Refresh your senses with this light and refreshing tea infused with the cooling flavors of cucumber, lime, and mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 cups fresh mint leaves
– 2 cups sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine water and fresh mint leaves. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Strain the tea into another pitcher or container, discarding the mint leaves.
3. Add sliced cucumber and let it infuse for an additional 10-15 minutes.
4. Stir in freshly squeezed lime juice and honey (if using).
5. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
6. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Cherry Almond Black Tea
This unique blend of flavors combines the warmth of black tea with the sweetness of cherries and the crunch of almonds, creating a refreshing and soothing beverage perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the black tea according to package instructions.
2. In a large mug, combine the brewed tea and dried cherries.
3. Add the sliced almonds on top of the cherry mixture.
4. If desired, add one tablespoon of honey and stir until dissolved.
5. Enjoy your Cherry Almond Black Tea!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (brewing time)
Matcha Coconut Milk Iced Tea
A refreshing twist on traditional green tea, this matcha coconut milk iced tea is a perfect blend of Japanese and tropical flavors. Enjoy the creamy texture and subtle sweetness with every sip.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat or low-fat, depending on your preference)
– 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the matcha powder and water until well combined.
2. Add the coconut milk to the bowl and whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
4. Pour the tea mixture over ice cubes in a tall glass or jug.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (whisking time included)
Rosemary Grapefruit Iced Tea
This unique tea blend combines the citrusy zing of grapefruit with the earthy aroma of rosemary, creating a refreshing and revitalizing drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 cups grapefruit juice (fresh or bottled)
– 2 tablespoons dried rosemary leaves
– 2 teaspoons loose-leaf black tea or herbal tea of your choice
– Ice cubes
– Optional: honey or sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the grapefruit juice and stir to combine.
3. Add the dried rosemary leaves and let steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has cooled slightly.
4. Strain the tea into a large pitcher or individual glasses.
5. Add the loose-leaf tea and let it steep for an additional 2-3 minutes, or to your desired strength.
6. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving over ice.
7. Sweeten with honey or sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Apple Cinnamon Iced Tea
Escape the ordinary with this autumn-inspired twist on classic iced tea. This soothing brew combines the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon to create a perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 black tea bags (such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast)
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– Slices of fresh apple (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the quart of water to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and add tea bags, allowing them to steep for 5-7 minutes.
3. Add apple cider, sugar, and cinnamon stick pieces to the pot. Stir until sugar dissolves.
4. Let the mixture cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
5. Strain the tea into a pitcher or individual glasses. Discard solids.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh apple slices if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy brew.
Lychee Rose Iced Tea
This Lychee Rose Iced Tea is a sweet and floral take on traditional tea, perfect for warm weather. With the subtle flavors of lychee and rose, this refreshing brew is sure to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 black tea bags (such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast)
– 1 cup fresh lychees, peeled and pitted
– 1/4 cup dried rose petals
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and add tea bags. Let steep for 5-7 minutes, or until desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a large pitcher.
4. Add lychee pieces and rose petals to the tea. Let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
5. Strain the tea again before serving. Sweeten with honey or sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Tropical Guava Iced Tea
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing twist on classic iced tea. This sweet and tangy brew is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a taste of the islands.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 tea bags (black tea)
– 1 cup fresh guava puree (or 2 tablespoons guava jam)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– Slices of lime and sprigs of mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the tea bags and let steep for 5 minutes, or until desired strength is reached.
3. Remove the tea bags and add the guava puree (or jam). Stir well to combine.
4. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
5. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. Serve over ice with a squeeze of lime and a sprig of mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (steeping time included)
Enjoy your tropical escape in a glass!
Cold Brew Rooibos with Citrus
This recipe combines the smooth, caffeine-free goodness of rooibos tea with the bright, citrusy flavors of orange and lemon. Perfect for hot summer days or as a revitalizing pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rooibos tea leaves
– 4 cups cold water
– Juice of 1 orange (about 2 tablespoons)
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine rooibos tea leaves and cold water in a large pitcher.
2. Steep for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the tea into a separate container, discarding the solids.
4. Add orange and lemon juices. Stir well to combine.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness with honey or sugar if desired.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with citrus slices or mint leaves for added flair.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (steeping) + serving
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing cold tea recipes! From fruity and floral to spicy and sweet, there’s something for everyone. Try Iced Peach Green Tea with juicy peaches and hint of green tea, or Lemon Mint Black Tea with a zesty twist. Or why not go exotic with Pineapple Coconut Oolong Tea or Tropical Guava Iced Tea? Whatever your taste, these 20 cold tea recipes are sure to quench your thirst and keep you cool all summer long.
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