The Best Homemade Sweet Tea Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This sweet tea recipe is a classic favorite, perfect for hot days or anytime you need an invigorating drink. It’s simple to make and tastes just like the Southern-style tea you love.

• Easy to prepare—just a few ingredients and steps, so anyone can make it.
• Perfectly balanced—not too sweet, not too strong, with a smooth, delicious flavor.
• Great for sharing—make a big batch for family and friends to enjoy together.

Recipe

Sweet tea is a classic Southern beverage known for its invigorating taste and perfect balance of sweetness. This simple recipe delivers a smooth, flavorful drink that’s ideal for hot summer days or any time you crave a cool, sweet sip.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups water
• 4 black tea bags (or 1 family-sized tea bag)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 4 cups cold water (for dilution)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and add the tea bags. Let steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on desired strength.
3. Remove the tea bags and stir in the sugar until fully dissolved.
4. Pour the sweetened tea concentrate into a pitcher and add 4 cups of cold water.
5. Refrigerate until chilled, or serve immediately over ice.
6. Garnish with lemon slices if desired.

Notes:

• Adjust sugar to taste—some prefer a lighter sweetness, while others enjoy a stronger syrup-like tea.
• For a stronger tea flavor, steep longer or use an extra tea bag.

Equipment:

• Medium saucepan
• Pitcher
• Measuring cups
• Spoon

Time:

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cooking time: 5 minutes
• Chilling time: 1 hour (optional)

Cuisine: Southern (American)

Serving: 8 cups

Nutrition

Homemade Sweet Tea is a classic beverage loved for its invigorating taste and simplicity. Below is the nutritional information for a standard serving of this sweet treat.

What To Serve With It

I love serving my homemade sweet tea with savory snacks like cheese straws or crackers, as they balance the sweetness perfectly. For a lighter option, fresh fruit like watermelon or strawberries adds a revitalizing touch. Pairing these choices makes the tea feel like a complete treat!

Savory Snack Pairings

Because sweet tea is such a revitalizing drink, it’s only natural to pair it with something savory to balance out the flavors. I love serving it with crispy fried chicken—the crunch and saltiness contrast perfectly with the tea’s sweetness. A plate of buttery biscuits or flaky cheese straws also works wonders, adding richness without overpowering the drink. For lighter options, try salted pretzels or a charcuterie board with cured meats and sharp cheddar. Even simple salted peanuts or popcorn can do the trick. These pairings keep things interesting, letting the tea shine while satisfying those savory cravings.

Refreshing Fruit Options

Alongside savory snacks, sweet tea pairs beautifully with fresh fruits, adding a bright, juicy contrast to its smooth sweetness. I love serving chilled watermelon slices—their crisp, watery bite balances the tea’s richness. Peaches, sliced thin, bring a floral sweetness that feels like summer in every sip. For a tangy twist, try pineapple chunks or berries, which pop with flavor against the tea’s mellow notes. Even citrus, like oranges or grapefruit, works surprisingly well, cutting through the sweetness just enough. Don’t forget a sprig of mint for a fresh finish. It’s simple, but it makes every sip feel special.

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younes

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