Strawberry Sweet Tea – A Refreshing Southern Favorite with a Fruity Twist

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a glass of cold sweet tea on a warm day — unless you level it up with fresh strawberries. Strawberry Sweet Tea combines the classic comfort of Southern-style tea with the juicy brightness of homemade strawberry syrup. It’s sweet, tangy, fruity, and totally thirst-quenching.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a picnic, or just want something fun to sip on the porch, this tea is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it looks stunning in a glass with lemon slices and strawberry garnishes — making it as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Simple Syrup:

• 3 cups strawberries, washed, stems removed, and sliced
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup sugar

For the Sweet Tea:

• 3 cups boiling water
• 3 family-sized Lipton original tea bags
• 1 cup sugar
• 8 cups cold water
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• 6–8 whole strawberries, washed and cut at the base for garnish
• Ice for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Syrup

1. In a medium saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, water, and sugar.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10–12 minutes until the strawberries break down and the syrup thickens.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the fruit to extract as much syrup as possible. Discard solids.
4. Let the syrup cool completely.

Step 2: Brew the Tea

1. Bring 3 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add the tea bags and steep for 10 minutes.
3. Remove tea bags, stir in 1 cup of sugar while the tea is hot, and let it dissolve completely.

Step 3: Mix and Chill

1. In a large pitcher, combine the brewed sweet tea, strawberry syrup, lemon juice, and cold water.
2. Stir well and chill for at least an hour.

Step 4: Serve

Pour over ice in a tall glass. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a strawberry on the rim.

Tips & Variations

• Want a lighter version? Reduce the sugar or use honey instead.
• Try it sparkling by swapping some water with club soda before serving.
• Add fresh basil or mint for a refreshing herbal twist.

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• Southern iced tea recipe
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• how to make strawberry simple syrup
• refreshing summer drinks

Would you like me to go ahead with the Peach Sweet Tea section next?