Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 4–6 black tea bags (depending on strength preference)
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1/4 cup cherry juice (optional, for extra cherry flavor)
- 4 cups ice
- Mint sprigs (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat.
- Step 2: Add the pitted cherries and tea bags to the sugar syrup. Let steep for 15-20 minutes, or until the tea has reached your desired strength. The longer it steeps, the stronger the tea will be.
- Step 3: Remove the tea bags and cherries from the syrup. If using, stir in the cherry juice.
- Step 4: Stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon as needed.
- Step 5: Pour the cooled tea into a pitcher. Add ice and garnish with mint sprigs, if desired.
- Step 6: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftover iced tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a delightfully warm treat, gently reheat leftover iced tea in a saucepan on low heat, avoiding a boil to preserve the delicate flavors.
- Serve your Cherry Iced Tea in elegant glasses with a few fresh cherries and a lemon wedge for a visually appealing and refreshing experience.
- To intensify the cherry flavor, lightly muddle a few extra cherries before adding them to the sugar syrup in step 2.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American