Description
A classic Southern sweet tea recipe that balances strong black tea with a simple syrup base for a crisp, refreshing drink. It is quick to make, cost-effective, and perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 cups water (filtered)
- 8 to 10 standard black tea bags
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water (for simple syrup)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pitcher or pot, then remove from heat.
- Add tea bags to the hot water and steep for 15 to 20 minutes. Do not squeeze the bags.
- While tea steeps, combine 2 cups sugar and 1 cup water in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir constantly until sugar is completely dissolved to create a simple syrup (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove tea bags from the concentrated tea.
- Pour the warm simple syrup into the pitcher with the strong tea and stir well.
- Add a large jar of ice cubes to chill and dilute the tea to the desired strength.
- Stir again once ice has melted slightly, taste, and adjust with cold water if needed.
- Serve over fresh ice with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Do not boil the tea bags as this extracts bitter tannins. Remove water from heat before adding tea. Use filtered water if tap water has a strong chlorine taste. The ice will dilute the sweetness, so taste before adding ice to adjust sugar levels. Store in refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 12
- Carbohydrates: 12
Keywords: Southern sweet tea, homemade sweet tea, simple syrup, summer drinks, iced tea recipe, cheap party drinks