Sweet tea is a classic Southern beverage that offers a refreshing and sweet taste perfect for hot summer days. This recipe is simple to make and requires just a few basic ingredients. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, a glass of sweet tea is sure to delight.
The ingredients for this sweet tea recipe are quite common and should be easily found in most households. However, if you don't have black tea bags on hand, you will need to pick some up at the supermarket. Black tea is the key ingredient that gives this drink its rich flavor.

Ingredients for Sweet Tea Recipe
Water: Used to brew the tea and dilute the mixture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to the tea.
Black tea: Provides the base flavor for the sweet tea.
Cold water: Helps to cool down the tea and balance the temperature.
Pro Tip for Making Sweet Tea
When steeping the tea bags, ensure you do not exceed the recommended 5-7 minutes. Over-steeping can result in a bitter taste, which can affect the overall flavor of your sweet tea. Additionally, when dissolving the sugar in the hot tea, make sure to stir continuously until fully dissolved to avoid any grainy texture. For an extra refreshing twist, consider adding a few slices of lemon or a handful of fresh mint leaves to the pitcher before refrigerating.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
water - Substitute with coconut water: Coconut water adds a subtle sweetness and unique flavor profile.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and adds a floral note to the tea.
sugar - Substitute with agave syrup: Agave syrup is a lower glycemic index sweetener and dissolves easily in liquids.
black tea - Substitute with green tea: Green tea offers a lighter, more delicate flavor and is rich in antioxidants.
black tea - Substitute with herbal tea: Herbal tea can provide a variety of flavors, such as chamomile or mint, for a caffeine-free option.
cold water - Substitute with iced herbal tea: Using iced herbal tea instead of cold water can enhance the flavor complexity of the sweet tea.
Alternative Recipes Similar to Sweet Tea
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Tea
- Allow the sweet tea to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can dilute the flavor.
- Transfer the sweet tea into an airtight container or a pitcher with a lid. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the refrigerator.
- Store the sweet tea in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to one week, but for the best flavor, consume it within 3-4 days.
- If you plan to freeze the sweet tea, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes.
- Label the containers with the date so you can keep track of how long it has been stored.
- When ready to use, thaw the sweet tea in the refrigerator overnight. Stir well before serving to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
- For a quick chill, you can also pour the sweet tea into ice cube trays and freeze. Use these sweet tea ice cubes to cool your drink without diluting it.
- Avoid storing sweet tea in direct sunlight or warm areas, as this can cause the tea to spoil more quickly.
- If you notice any off smells or flavors, discard the sweet tea immediately to avoid any risk of consuming spoiled tea.
How to Reheat Leftover Sweet Tea
- Pour the sweet tea into a microwave-safe mug or cup. Heat in the microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overheating.
- Transfer the sweet tea to a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to let it boil.
- If you prefer a more even reheating, use a double boiler. Place the sweet tea in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir gently until warmed through.
- For a quick fix, use an electric kettle with a temperature control setting. Pour the sweet tea into the kettle and set it to a low heat setting, around 160°F (70°C). Monitor closely to prevent overheating.
- If you have a sous-vide machine, seal the sweet tea in a vacuum bag and immerse it in a water bath set to 160°F (70°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures even heating without altering the flavor.
Essential Tools for Making Sweet Tea
Saucepan: Used to bring the water to a boil.
Stove: Provides the heat source for boiling the water.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of water and sugar.
Tea bags: Contains the black tea leaves needed for steeping.
Pitcher: Used to mix and store the sweet tea.
Spoon: Helps in stirring the sugar until it dissolves.
Refrigerator: Chills the tea before serving.
Ice cubes: Keeps the tea cold when serving.
Serving glasses: Used to serve the sweet tea over ice.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Sweet Tea
Boil water in advance: Boil water ahead of time and store it in a thermos to save time when making sweet tea.
Use a microwave: Heat water in the microwave for a quicker boil instead of using a saucepan.
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out your sugar and tea bags beforehand to streamline the process.
Make a concentrate: Steep the tea bags in less water to create a concentrate, then dilute with cold water directly in the pitcher.
Use a pitcher with a lid: A pitcher with a lid allows you to shake the tea mixture instead of stirring, saving time and ensuring the sugar dissolves completely.

Sweet Tea Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups sugar
- 6 bags black tea
- 4 cups cold water
Instructions
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Remove from heat and add tea bags. Let steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove tea bags and stir in sugar until dissolved.
- Pour tea into a pitcher and add 4 cups of cold water. Stir well.
- Refrigerate until chilled. Serve over ice.
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