All about Iced Tea & How to Make Homemade Iced Tea

Is it getting hot where you are too? Then it’s the perfect time to pour yourself a glass of homemade iced tea and cool off! Iced tea has quickly become one of the most popular drinks for hot, sunny days, and it’s no wonder. It’s refreshing, light, and just the thing to quench your thirst when the heat kicks in. Known by names like iced tea, cold tea, or even tea on the rocks, this chilled drink has taken the world by storm. Let’s find out why.

So, where did iced tea even come from?

Fun fact: even though cold tea had already become a thing in the southern United States, iced tea didn’t really make headlines until the 19th century. It all started at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. Legend has it that a tea vendor, struggling to attract customers in the sweltering heat, added ice to his hot tea, and just like that, iced tea was born. Since then, it’s been a summer favorite across the globe.

Is there only one kind of iced tea?

Not at all! There are tons of variations depending on the type of tea, flavors added, and how it’s brewed. Some of the most popular kinds include:

Black iced tea: Made with black tea and the most classic version.
Green iced tea: Lighter and slightly more herbal, using green tea.
Fruit-infused iced tea: Flavored with lemon, peach, raspberry, mango, and more.
Southern sweet tea: A beloved classic in the American South, loaded with sugar and ice!

Why is iced tea so popular?

It’s that perfect combo of cool ice and smooth tea flavor that makes it feel both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, lots of people are turning to lighter, more natural drinks instead of sugary sodas. Iced tea is low in calories, plant-based, and can be customized with just about any flavor. It’s no surprise it’s now competing with some of the most popular fizzy drinks out there.

A few fun facts about iced tea:

In some countries, like the U.S., iced tea is actually more popular than hot tea.
Some recipes mix iced tea with fizzy drinks like soda or lemonade.
You can sweeten it with honey or natural syrups for a healthier twist.

How to Make Homemade Iced Tea

Ingredients for 2 glasses:

2 teaspoons black or green tea
2 cups boiling water
Ice (as much as you like)
Sugar or honey (optional, to taste)
Lemon slices or fresh mint leaves for flavor

Instructions:

Brew the tea first. If you’re using loose leaf tea or something more aromatic, let it steep for around 20 minutes.
Let the tea cool to room temperature. If you want it sweet, now’s the time to add sugar or honey (it dissolves better while warm).
Once cooled, pop it in the fridge until it’s nice and cold.
To serve, pour the tea over ice and garnish with lemon or mint.

Tips:

For a clear, crisp iced tea, strain it through a fine sieve once it’s cooled.
You can add fruits like orange slices, peaches, or berries for extra flavor.
Want a fizzy twist? Add a splash of soda water.

Final Thoughts

A big glass of iced tea on a summer afternoon, by the window, with a good book or some mellow music, that’s the kind of little joy that changes your mood. If you’ve never tried making it at home, this is your sign. Give this simple recipe a shot and treat yourself to a refreshing, feel-good drink today!