There’s nothing more refreshing than a glass of easy homemade iced tea on a hot day. Whether you’re craving classic Southern sweet tea or just want a simple, no-fuss recipe, this method will give you perfectly brewed, flavorful tea- without needing a tea maker! With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a deliciously sweet, thirst-quenching drink that’s perfect for sipping on the porch or serving with dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Tea Recipe
- No fancy equipment needed– Just a pot, spoon, measuring cup, and a pitcher!
- Simple ingredients– Tea bags, water, and sugar
- Customizable sweetness– Adjust sugar to your taste.
- Refreshing and smooth – No bitter aftertaste, just perfectly brewed tea
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 black tea bags (Lipton or Luzianne)
- 4 cups boiling water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 cups cold water
How to Make Sweet Iced Tea (No Tea Maker Needed!)
Step 1: Brew the Tea
Boil 4 cups of water in a pot or kettle. Remove from heat and add the tea bags. Let them steep for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Sweeten It Up
Remove the tea bags and stir the 1/2 cup of sugar into the tea while it is still warm. This ensures the sugar blends smoothly without any gritty texture.
Step 3: Cool It Down:
Pour the sweetened tea into a pitcher and add 4 cups of cold water to dilute it. Pop in fridge to chill.
Step 4: Serve Over Ice
Fill glasses with ice, pour the tea over, and garnish with a lemon slice or fresh mint to dress it up. Enjoy!
Tips for Easy Homemade Iced Tea
- Avoid bitterness: Don’t over-steep your tea bags
- Use filtered water for the smoothest flavor
- Want strong tea? Add more tea bags instead of steeping longer
- For a fun twist, try adding fresh fruit like peaches or strawberries for a fruity kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use honey instead of sugar? Yes, just swap the sugar for a 1/2 cup honey and stir it into warm tea until dissolved.
How long does sweet tea last? Stored in the fridge it will last 5 days. Stir before serving, as sugar may settle.
Can I use green tea? Green tea makes a lighter, slightly floral sweet tea. Just reduce the steeping time to 5 minutes.
