In a small saucepan set over medium heat, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of sugar and stir until dissolved. Remove from heat and pour into an airtight jar to cool.
In a ½ gallon pitcher, pour 7 to 8 cups of water over 2 to 3 family-size cold brew tea bags. Allow to infuse for 5 to 15 minutes, depending on desired strength.
Discard the tea bags and pour the sweet tea into glasses. Allow each person to sweeten their own tea with the simple syrup.
Stir and add ice. Garnish with lemon slices, orange slices, raspberries, or mint leaves if desired.