Go Back
Southern Homemade Sweet Tea

Southern Homemade Sweet Tea

The ultimate refreshment for hot days, Southern Homemade Sweet Tea is a sweet and invigorating drink that will cool you down in no time. With its simple yet delicious combination of tea, sugar, and water, it’s perfect for any occasion. There’s nothing like a tall glass to quench your thirst and brighten your day!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Beverages
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup sugar granulated, super-fine, organic, coconut or brown
  • 7 to 8 cups water
  • 2 to 3 bags family-size cold brew tea bags

Equipment

  • Frying Pan
  • Large Pot
  • Chef's Knife
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Discard the tea bags and pour the sweet tea into glasses. Allow each person to sweeten their own tea with the simple syrup.
  4. Stir and add ice. Garnish with lemon slices, orange slices, raspberries, or mint leaves if desired.

Notes

  • Tip 1: To make a gallon of iced tea, double the recipe using the same ratios (use 4-5 family-sized tea bags).
  • Tip 2: Brew time can affect flavor; longer steeping yields a richer taste.
  • Tip 3: Garnishing with fresh mint and citrus adds a refreshing twist.
  • Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding fruits or herbs during brewing.
  • Tip 5: Store in a sealed pitcher in the fridge for up to a week for best taste.