Classic Sweet Tea

Classic Sweet Tea

We love this sweet tea recipe because it's got strong tea flavor without being bitter, and it's sweet but not cloying.

Ingredients

  • regular-size tea bags
    12
  • baking soda
    ⅛ tsp
  • distilled or bottled water
    1 qt.
  • ice cubes
    1 qt.
  • simple syrup
    1 ¼ c

Directions

  1. 1

    Gather ingredients:

  2. 2

    Prepare tea bags: Place tea bags and baking soda in a large heatproof measuring cup.

  3. 3

    Boil and steep tea: Bring water just to a rolling boil in a saucepan or kettle, and immediately pour over tea bags, making sure bags are submerged. Cover and steep 7 minutes. Remove tea bags without squeezing; discard tea bags.

  4. 4

    Add ice and Simple Syrup: Add ice, and stir until ice melts. Stir in Simple Syrup.

  5. 5

    Serve: Serve over ice.

Classic Sweet Tea

Classic Sweet Tea

50 min

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About this Recipe

Craving that quintessential Southern refreshment? This Classic Sweet Tea recipe delivers a perfectly balanced beverage with a robust tea flavor that's never bitter, and a sweetness that's just right.

This beloved sweet tea recipe shines because it masterfully achieves strong tea flavor without any unwanted bitterness. The inclusion of a touch of baking soda is a clever trick often used to mellow tea's natural tannins, contributing to a smoother, less astringent sip. Paired with simple syrup, it ensures consistent sweetness throughout, avoiding the grainy texture or cloying taste sometimes found in less refined recipes.

With every glass, you can expect a truly invigorating and balanced experience. This sweet tea offers a pronounced, deep tea character that speaks of quality brewing, perfectly complemented by a clean, pleasant sweetness that dances on the palate without overwhelming it. It's the kind of crisp, refreshing drink that soothes on a warm day, making it an instant classic for any occasion.

While this recipe provides a classic foundation, you can easily tailor it to your preference. Adjust the amount of simple syrup to achieve your ideal level of sweetness—feel free to use slightly less or more. For a different twist, experiment with various black tea blends beyond standard regular-size tea bags, or even a mix of black and decaffeinated teas.

This delightful sweet tea is the perfect accompaniment to backyard barbecues, a quiet afternoon on the porch, or any gathering where a refreshing, homemade beverage is appreciated. Serve it chilled over plenty of ice.

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