Southern Sweet Tea (Print Version)
An iconic Southern beverage brewed strong and sweetened just right — best served ice-cold on a hot day.
# Ingredients:
→ Tea Base
01 -
4 cups water
02 -
6 regular-size black tea bags (e.g., Lipton or Luzianne)
03 -
¾ to 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
→ To Finish
04 -
4 cups cold water
05 -
Ice, for serving
06 -
Lemon slices (optional)
07 -
Fresh mint sprigs (optional)
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
02 -
Remove from heat and add tea bags. Let steep for 10 minutes.
03 -
Remove tea bags without squeezing them. Stir in sugar until fully dissolved while tea is still warm.
04 -
Pour sweetened tea into a large pitcher. Add 4 cups of cold water and stir well.
05 -
Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled (at least 30 minutes).
06 -
Serve over plenty of ice. Garnish with lemon slices or mint if desired.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
For stronger tea, steep longer or add 1–2 extra tea bags.
02 -
Adjust sugar to personal preference — classic Southern tea is very sweet.
03 -
Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.