High Fructose Corn Syrup Free Classic Sweet Iced Tea
Sweet iced tea is one of those deeply satisfying drinks that belongs at every backyard gathering, Sunday dinner, and lazy afternoon on the porch. The problem with most bottled or canned versions is that they're loaded with high fructose corn syrup, which sneaks in even when you're not expecting it. This homemade version keeps things beautifully simple — just water, black tea bags, and plain granulated sugar, so you know exactly what's going into your glass. Dissolving the sugar directly into the hot tea concentrate is the key move here, ensuring every sip is evenly sweet rather than grainy or flat. The cold water added afterward brings it all together into a smooth, refreshing pitcher that's ready to chill until you need it. A squeeze of lemon or a sprig of fresh mint on top takes it from everyday to genuinely special, without adding a single questionable ingredient.
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!