By pairing expertly crafted blends of loose leaf tea with homemade, naturally-flavored simple syrups you can create sophisticated summertime ice tea lemonades to have on-hand for all your summer soirees, beach parties, or just a quiet evening on the porch. This recipe will guide you through three unique fruit-centered combinations that will have your taste bud begging and pleading for more.
The One True Pairing
The classic Arnold Palmer beverage was named after American pro golfer Arnold Palmer who was known to often request and drink the beverage combination of half iced tea, half lemonade. There’s no proof that he was the original inventor of iced tea lemonade, but I’d say his consistency is proof that the beverage is an excellent thirst quencher, especially after a long day on the course!
I find Iced tea to already be quite refreshing on its own, but by adding a zingy twist of citrus and sugar, it can truly brighten up the day and add a pep to your step. But why stop there? Sure, there’s nothing quite like the classic, but some days you just want to be a little “extra” with your beverage, am I right?
Sweeten the Deal
Simple syrup can be found on the shelves of nearly any grocery store, but it's such an easy thing to make. Why not make your own?
The base for simple syrup simply is equal parts water and sugar, which means it can be made in any quantity and without unwanted preservatives. All you need to do is flavor it with whatever pleases you.
Follow the base recipe below to try these three fruit-filled ways to punch up your iced tea lemonade this summer. If you’re not a fan of these particular flavors, my suggestion to you is to find a fruity tea that pleases your taste buds and then create your own flavored syrup that complements its flavor.
For all you boozy drink lovers out there, try adding a shot of your favorite sweet tea vodka to any of these recipes for an alcoholic kick. Please always remember to drink responsibly.
Iced Tea Lemonade Recipe:
Iced Tea Lemonade Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed tea, cooled*
- 2-3 tablespoons naturally flavored simple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Ice
- Sugar for garnish (optional)
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh fruit (blackberry, mango, or peach)*
Directions for Simple Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine together 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar along with ¼ cup chopped fresh fruit (blackberry, mango, or peach). Over medium heat, bring to a simmer and stir until sugar is dissolved and the liquid looks clear. Smash the fruit up a bit with your mixing spoon and let simmer for a few minutes, stirring often. Remove from heat and let sit for 15 minutes. Strain into a sealable container, discarding the fruit. Cool and store in the fridge.
Directions for Iced Tea Lemonade:
If you’d like a sugared rim for your iced tea lemonade use a lemon slice or lemon juice to wet the lip of your cup, then dip it into some sugar. You can skip that step if desired. Fill your glass mostly with ice. Pour in the cooled brewed tea, flavored simple syrup, and lemon juice. If you want to make this a cocktail add sweet tea vodka to your liking. Gently stir to combine, then garnish with optional items.
Blackberry Mojito: Combine Blackberry Mojito black tea with blackberry simple syrup and a garnish of lime and blackberry.
Smooth Sailing Mango: Combine “Smooth Sailing” Mango black tea with mango simple syrup and a garnish of chili mango slices.
Georgia Peach: Combine Sweet Georgia Peach black tea with peach simple syrup, and a garnish of peach ring candy.
With so many mouth-watering flavors in summer, there are endless combinations that can be used to create even more sophisticated summertime ice tea lemonade recipes just like these ones. I hope this article helps you create your own unique combinations. Happy summer to all!
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