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“Peach iced tea with fresh peaches”

Name: Best Homemade Iced Tea

Summary: A crisp, refreshing iced tea recipe made with simple ingredients, customizable for sweetness and flavors, perfect for summer or any time of year.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 50
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:
  • 6 black tea bags or green tea for a lighter version
  • 8 cups fresh water
  • ½ cup sugar optional, adjust to taste
  • Lemon slices optional, for garnish
  • Fresh mint optional, for garnish
  • Ice cubes

Equipment

  • Equipment:
  • Medium pot
  • Large pitcher
  • Long spoon
  • Measuring cup
  • Tall serving glasses

Method
 

  1. Instructions:
  2. Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot.
  3. Remove from heat and add the tea bags.
  4. Steep for 5–7 minutes, depending on desired strength.
  5. Remove tea bags carefully without squeezing.
  6. Stir in sugar while the tea is still hot, if desired.
  7. Let tea cool to room temperature naturally.
  8. Transfer to a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  9. Serve over ice with lemon slices and mint, if desired.

Notes

Notes:
For a fruitier version, add peach puree, berries, or orange slices while chilling.
For a spiced version, steep a cinnamon stick or star anise with the tea bags.
Cold brewing is also an option — steep tea in cold water for 8–12 hours in the fridge for a smoother taste.