Beef Free Classic Sweet Iced Tea
Few drinks are as deeply satisfying as a tall glass of sweet iced tea on a warm afternoon, and this recipe delivers that classic Southern comfort in the most straightforward way possible. Black tea bags, sugar, and water are all you need to create something genuinely refreshing — no fancy equipment, no complicated steps, just a pitcher full of something cold and delicious. The trick of dissolving the sugar while the tea is still hot means every sip is perfectly balanced, with no gritty sweetness settling at the bottom. A squeeze of lemon or a sprig of fresh mint takes it from everyday to effortlessly elegant. This is the kind of drink that disappears fast at gatherings, so you may want to make a double batch right from the start.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 8 cups water, divided
- 6 black tea bags (such as lipton or luzianne)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
For serving
- ice, for serving
- lemon slices, for serving (optional)
- fresh mint sprigs, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Bring 4 cups of the water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Remove from the heat, add the tea bags, and steep for 5 minutes. Remove and discard the tea bags without squeezing them.
- 2
While the tea is still hot, add the sugar and stir until completely dissolved, about 1 minute.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!