Apple Iced Tea
Craving a cool and refreshing drink that’s a little fruity, a little earthy, and totally satisfying? This apple iced tea might just become your new go-to favorite.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Heatproof pitcher or large mason jar
- Fine Mesh Strainer (Optional)
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Ice cube tray (or store-bought ice)
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 2 black tea bags
- 1 ½ cups 100% apple juice unsweetened
- 1 –2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup optional, to taste
- ½ apple thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Ice cubes for serving
- Optional: a few fresh mint leaves or a cinnamon stick for added flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Water
- Pour 4 cups of water into a medium saucepan.
- Place it on the stove over medium-high heat and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Pro Tip: Don’t let it boil too aggressively — just a steady simmer is perfect for steeping tea without making it bitter.
Step 2: Steep the Tea
- Once the water starts simmering, turn off the heat.
- Add the 2 black tea bags to the hot water.
- Cover the saucepan with a lid or plate and let it steep for 5–7 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea.
- Pro Tip: Steeping too long can make the tea taste bitter. Five minutes gives a nice balanced flavor.
Step 3: Add Sweetener (Optional)
- Remove the tea bags and discard them.
- While the tea is still warm, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup, if using.
- Mix until fully dissolved.
- Pro Tip: Sweeten while warm so it blends smoothly—cold tea won’t dissolve honey as well.
Step 4: Add the Apple Juice
- Let the tea cool slightly for 5–10 minutes.
- Pour in 1 ½ cups of unsweetened apple juice and stir gently.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Step 5: Chill the Tea
- Transfer the tea to a heatproof pitcher or large mason jar.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours, or until fully chilled.
- Pro Tip: If you're short on time, cool it over an ice bath before refrigerating to speed up the process.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Fill your glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour the chilled apple iced tea over the ice.
- Add a few thin apple slices and, if desired, a sprig of fresh mint or a cinnamon stick.
- Pro Tip: Add apple slices right before serving so they stay crisp and fresh-looking.
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: 50–70 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 13–17g
- Sugars: 10–15g
- Caffeine: ~30–40mg (if using black tea)
- Fat/Protein: 0g