Cherry Ice Tea Recipe

Picture this: you’re lounging on a sunny afternoon, reaching for a glass of my delightful cherry-infused iced tea that promises to be the refreshing sip of summer you’ve been waiting for. This drink isn’t just your average brew—it’s a fusion of bold black tea and sweet cherries with a zing of lemon that will make your taste buds dance.

I adore making ice tea, and this Cherry Ice Tea is a delightful marriage of fresh cherries and strong black tea. The addition of lemon juice gives it a vibrant citrus flavor that nicely complements the fruit.

And a smidge of liquid sweetener ensures that the tartness of the cherries doesn’t overpower the other flavors. Antioxidants, anyone?

This drink is as good for you as it is refreshing.

Cherry Ice Tea Recipe Ingredients

• Black Tea Bags: Rich in antioxidants, providing a robust tea base.
• Cherries: Packed with vitamins, offering sweetness and a slight tartness.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness, balancing the tea’s natural tartness.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Boosts vitamin C, enhancing the drink’s refreshing tartness.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: Optional garnish, adding a cooling, refreshing aroma.

Cherry Ice Tea Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 cups water
• 4 black tea bags
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
• Sliced lemon for garnish (optional)

How to Make this Cherry Ice Tea Recipe

1. In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a full boil.

2. Remove from heat and add 4 bags of black tea. Allow to steep for 5-7 minutes, then take out the tea bags.

3. In another saucepan, combine the pitted and halved cherries with granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of water.

4. Bring the cherry mixture to heat over medium heat, stirring it now and then, until the sugar is dissolved and the cherries are broken down just enough to release their juice. You won’t really need to melt any cherries, and this should take no more than about 5-10 minutes.

5. Take the cherry mixture off the heat and allow it to cool a bit.

6. Strain the cherry mix through a very fine mesh sieve into the brewed tea. Discard any solid bits and be sure to get all the good cherry juice out of the cherries with a spoon or spatula.

7. Mix in the fresh lemon juice until combined.

8. Chill the cherry tea in the refrigerator until completely cold, which should take about 1-2 hours.

9. Once prepared to serve, pack the tumblers with ice so that the cubes touch the sides of the glass, then pour the cherry ice tea over the ice.

10. If desired, garnish with fresh mint leaves and sliced lemon. Serve at once.

Cherry Ice Tea Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Saucepan (2)
2. Fine mesh sieve
3. Mixing spoon or spatula
4. Measuring cups
5. Measuring spoons
6. Knife (for pitting and halving cherries)
7. Cutting board
8. Tumblers (or glasses for serving)
9. Refrigerator (for chilling)
10. Ice cube tray/maker

FAQ

• Can I use green tea instead of black tea?Yes, you can use green tea instead of black tea if you prefer a lighter flavor.
• Can I use sweeteners other than granulated sugar?You bet! You can use honey, agave syrup, or any suitable sugar substitute that meets your taste and dietary requirements.
• How long should I steep the tea bags?Brew the tea bags for 5-7 minutes for a hearty taste, but be careful not to overbrew them; otherwise, they can get bitter.
• Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh or frozen?You can use dried cherries, but first, soak them in hot water to rehydrate. They’ll give you a better flavor infusion that way.
• Is there a way to make this recipe without added sugar?Do not sweeten with sugar; count on the cherries’ natural sweetness, or use a sugar substitute for a version devoid of the sweet stuff.
• Can I make this cherry ice tea ahead of time?Absolutely; you can prepare the tea and cherry mixture the day before. Just store them apart and put them together when you’re about to serve.
• What’s the best way to pit cherries?The simplest way is to use a cherry pitter. If you don’t have that tool, cut the cherries in half and remove the pits with a knife.

Cherry Ice Tea Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You can substitute green tea bags for black tea bags when you want a lighter flavor.
If cherries are unavailable, consider substituting them with raspberries or strawberries.
Consider honey or agave syrup instead of granulated sugar as a natural sweetener.
Lime juice can be substituted in recipes for a different twist of citrus. Instead of using lemon juice, make fresh lime juice. Use it the same way you would lemon juice in this recipe.

Pro Tips

1. To enhance the cherry flavor, consider slightly mashing the cherries with a fork before cooking them with the sugar. This will help release more juice and flavor into the mixture.

2. Instead of discarding the strained cherry solids, consider blending them into a smooth puree and adding a spoonful to each glass for an added burst of flavor and texture.

3. For a deeper, more complex flavor, try using a combination of different black teas, such as Earl Grey or Darjeeling, when brewing the tea. Alternatively, add a pinch of cinnamon or a few cloves to the cherry mixture while heating for a warm spicy note.

4. Make an ice ring or large ice cubes with lemon slices or whole cherries frozen inside. This not only keeps your drink cold but also adds a decorative touch as it melts.

5. Adjust the sweetness to your preference after the cherry tea has cooled. Taste and add more sugar or a splash of honey if desired, stirring well to dissolve completely.