Xanthan Gum Free Sparkling Lemonade Berry Iced Tea
This drink is the kind of thing you'd pay too much for at a trendy café, and it's genuinely easy to pull off at home. Fresh strawberries get muddled right in the pitcher, releasing their juice into a deep amber black tea base that's already been brightened with real lemon juice, lemon zest, and a touch of maple syrup. The result is layered, fruity, and just tart enough to feel refreshing rather than sweet. A hit of chilled sparkling water goes in at the very end, so every glass stays lively and effervescent. For anyone navigating thickener-free living, this recipe is naturally in the clear — every single ingredient is whole and straightforward, with zero additives or stabilizers anywhere in sight. It's the kind of drink that looks stunning with a lemon slice and a sprig of mint tucked in, but honestly tastes just as good straight from the glass.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the tea base
- 4 black tea bags
- 3 cups boiling water
For the lemon syrup
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ¼ cup water
For the berry layer
- 16 medium strawberries, hulled and halved (about 200 g)
For assembling
- 2 cups sparkling water, chilled
- 2 cups ice cubes
For serving
- 4 lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
- 4 fresh mint sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Place the tea bags in a heatproof pitcher or large measuring cup. Pour the 3 cups of boiling water over them and steep for 4–5 minutes, until the tea is deep amber and full-flavored. Remove the bags without squeezing, then let the tea cool to room temperature, about 20–25 minutes.
- 2
While the tea steeps, combine the maple syrup, lemon juice, lemon zest, and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the maple syrup is fully dissolved, about 2 minutes — the mixture should be smooth and slightly steaming but not boiling. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
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