Southern Sweet Tea
A quintessential Southern treat, this sweet tea is crisp, refreshing, and perfectly sweetened with just the right balance of sugar and tea.
Total: 10 minPrep: 5 minCook: 5 min1 gallonDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (256+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 8 cups water, divided
- 1 family-sized tea bag (or 4 regular tea bags)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Steps
- 1 Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- 2 Remove from heat and steep the tea bag(s) for 5 minutes.
- 3 Remove the tea bag(s) and stir in the sugar until dissolved.
- 4 Add the remaining 6 cups of water and stir well.
- 5 Let cool to room temperature before serving over ice.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Large pitcher
Variations
- Add mint leaves for a refreshing twist.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a different sweetness.
Substitutions
- If you're out of granulated sugar, use an equal amount of honey or agave syrup.
Pairings
- Perfect with a side of pecan pie or peach cobbler.
- Enjoy alongside a hearty Southern brunch.
Nutrition
Calories:
85 kcal
Fat:
0g fat
Carbs:
22g carbohydrates
Protein:
0g protein
Fiber:
0g fiber
Sugar:
22g sugar
Sodium:
5mg sodium
Tips
- For an extra touch, garnish with lemon wedges.
- Brew longer for a stronger tea flavor if desired.
Storage
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled.
Freezing: Does not freeze well due to sugar content.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a slice of lemon for a zesty kick.
- Pair with a classic Southern meal like fried chicken or collard greens.
FAQ
Can I use regular tea bags instead of a family-sized one?
Absolutely, just use 4 regular tea bags for the same strength.