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Classic Sweet Tea

This home-brewed Southern Sweet Tea is smooth, refreshing, and simple. This classic southern drink is quick and easy to make at home.

Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
15 mins
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 2 cups water
  • ⅛ tsp baking soda
  • ¾ cup white sugar
  • 3 large family size tea bags
  • 4 cups water cold
  • 1 cup ice
Optional
  • Lemon wedges
  • mint leaves

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Pour 2 cups of water into a medium size saucepan over medium heat. 
  2. Stir in the sugar and baking soda. Continue to stir occasionally while the water heats. The sugar will disappear and the water will turn clear. Once the water reaches boiling point (small bubbles forming) remove from heat
  3. Dunk the tea bags a few times in the water, then leave the teabags in the water with the strings hanging over the side. After minimum of 10 minutes remove the bags. (can allow to steep overnight if desired)
  4. Pour the tea mixture into a large pitcher. Add in the remaining  4 cups of cold water and 1 cup of ice. The tea can be served immediately or placed in the refrigerator to chill even further. Can be stored for up to 1 week in the refrigerator. 

Notes

  • Tea Bags: Use the tea bags that make iced tea. Typically Lipton or Luzianne. If you don't have family size bags on hand use 3 regular size for each family size bag. 3 Family size bags would equal 9 regular size bags.
  • Baking Soda: just a pinch takes away any bitterness. 
  • Steeping time: the minimum time needed is 10 minutes. It can steep overnight. 

Nutrition Information

Serving 1cup Calories 90kcal (5%) Carbohydrates 25g (8%) Sodium 9mg (0%) Sugar 25g (50%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6cups

Amount Per Serving

Calories

% Daily Value*

Serving 1cup
Calories 90kcal 5%
Carbohydrates 25g 8%
Sodium 9mg 0%
Sugar 25g 50%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.