Strawberry Sweet Tea

Strawberry Sweet Tea is a refreshing Southern classic that combines the boldness of brewed black tea with the vibrant sweetness of homemade strawberry syrup. It’s perfect for hot days, backyard gatherings, or whenever you need a cool, fruity drink.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor
  • Easy to make with just a few ingredients
  • Can be prepared ahead of time
  • Customizable sweetness and fruitiness
  • A beautiful, vibrant drink for any occasion

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Black tea bags
  • Water
  • Fresh strawberries
  • Granulated sugar
  • Lemon juice (optional)
  • Baking soda (optional, for bitterness reduction)

Directions

  1. In a saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and a bit of water. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until strawberries break down. Strain the mixture to make strawberry syrup.
  2. Brew tea by steeping black tea bags in boiling water for about 10–15 minutes.
  3. Discard tea bags and combine tea with the strawberry syrup in a large pitcher.
  4. Stir in lemon juice and a pinch of baking soda if desired.
  5. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Serve over ice with fresh strawberry slices or lemon wedges for garnish.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 6–12 depending on glass size
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Chill time: 30–45 minutes

Variations

  • Use green or herbal tea instead of black tea
  • Replace sugar with honey or agave syrup
  • Add mint leaves for extra freshness
  • Mix with lemonade for a strawberry Arnold Palmer
  • Turn it into a cocktail with a splash of vodka or rum

storage/reheating

  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days
  • Keep in a sealed pitcher to maintain freshness
  • Do not reheat; this tea is meant to be served cold
  • Freeze in ice cube trays for longer storage or to chill drinks without watering them down

FAQs

What tea should I use for sweet tea?

Black tea, such as Lipton or Luzianne, works best for authentic sweet tea flavor.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work just as well for making the syrup.

Why add baking soda?

A small pinch of baking soda reduces bitterness and helps create a smoother tea.

How can I make it less sweet?

Use less sugar in the syrup, or dilute the tea with more water or ice.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for making a day ahead and keeping in the fridge until serving.

Can I use green tea instead of black tea?

Absolutely, though it will have a lighter flavor and color.

What’s the best way to serve it at a party?

Serve in a large pitcher with fruit garnishes and lots of ice.

How do I keep it from getting cloudy?

Use fresh tea, avoid over-boiling, and refrigerate quickly after making.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes, you can use stevia, monk fruit, or other alternatives to suit your diet.

Is it okay to skip straining the syrup?

Yes, if you don’t mind a bit of fruit pulp in your tea.

Conclusion

Strawberry Sweet Tea is a vibrant, flavorful drink that brings a burst of fruity refreshment to your day. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply relaxing on the porch, this tea delivers all the charm of classic Southern hospitality with a delicious strawberry twist.

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Strawberry Sweet Tea

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Refreshing iced tea sweetened with strawberry syrup for a summery twist on classic Southern-style sweet tea.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling)
  • Yield: 6 servings (about 8 oz each) 1x
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Stovetop brew & chill
  • Cuisine: American/Southern
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups water
  • 4 black tea bags
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 2 cups cold water
  • Ice cubes
  • Optional garnish: fresh strawberry slices, mint sprigs

Instructions

  1. Bring 4 cups water to a near-boil in a saucepan.
  2. Remove from heat, add tea bags, and steep for 5 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, in another small saucepan, simmer strawberries with granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves and berries break down, about 5–7 minutes.
  4. Strain the strawberry syrup through a fine mesh sieve, pressing to extract juice; discard solids.
  5. Remove tea bags and stir in strawberry syrup while tea is still warm.
  6. Add 2 cups cold water, stir, and let tea cool to room temperature.
  7. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 1 hour.
  8. Serve over ice, garnished with strawberry slices or mint if desired.

Notes

  • Use more or less sugar depending on desired sweetness.
  • Substitute honey or agave for sugar for a natural sweetener.
  • Try flavored tea (like hibiscus or berry blend) to enhance fruitiness.
  • Make a big batch and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For a fizzy version, top off with sparkling water.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240 mL)
  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Sugar: 25 g
  • Sodium: 10 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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