Lemon Vanilla Iced Tea Recipe
A refreshing homemade iced tea made with lemon, vanilla, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for hot summer days!
Equipment
- Tea kettle or pot for boiling water
- Pitcher
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 4 black tea bags Ceylon or English Breakfast
- 4 cups water filtered
- 2 fresh lemons juice and zest
- 1 vanilla bean or 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup honey or sugar or maple syrup/agave for vegan
- Ice cubes about 2 cups for serving
- Mint leaves optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Brew the tea base: Boil 4 cups water and remove from heat. Add tea bags and steep for 5-7 minutes. Remove tea bags and squeeze gently to extract flavor.
- Add flavors while hot: While tea is still hot, add honey or sugar, stirring until dissolved. Then add lemon zest and vanilla (bean or extract). Let steep for 10 minutes.
- Cool it down: Let tea come to room temperature (about 30 minutes) then strain out zest and vanilla pod.
- Finish and chill: Add fresh lemon juice and transfer to a pitcher. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice, pour tea over ice, and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves. Optional: Add extra honey if desired.
Notes
For best flavor, make this a day ahead. The tea tastes better after the flavors meld.
For faster cooling, add 2 cups of ice immediately after steeping the tea.
Can be made with green tea for a milder flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 45kcalCarbohydrates: 12gSodium: 5mg
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