This deliciously simple fruit tea recipe is the perfect refreshing drink for hot summer days! A blend of fruit juices, unsweetened tea and ginger ale, it’s an easy recipe that is a healthier option than soda. Make a big batch for summer parties and family gathering, and I promise you it will be a crowd please for kids and grown-ups alike!
I have loved iced tea since I was a kid and my mom and grandma would brew a big jug of it on the porch every few days. I didn’t even need to add much sugar to my glass, the slightly bitter but smooth sun tea was enough to satisfy on its own. Things haven’t changed much in my love for tea, but it is fun to switch things up and try something new. This recipe uses simple ingredients and doesn’t even require you to brew your own tea at home. I really think you’ll love upgrading your iced tea game with this southern fruit tea recipe.
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Why this recipe works
- Quick and easy to make, especially if using store bought tea
- Minimal added sugar and makes a great alternative to sugar laden sodas and fruit punches.
- Customizable to suit your specific flavors. Just follow the same ratios and switch up the fresh fruit and fruit juices you use.
Ingredients
4 cups unsweetened iced tea (either store bought or home-brewed)
1 cup each cranberry juice and orange juice
1 tablespoon fine sugar (more to taste if you want it more sweet)
2 cups ginger ale
fresh lemon juice from ½ a lemon
orange slices and lemon slices for garnish
How to make this perfect drink!
There isn’t much to making this tea, it’s so easy you can have a batch whipped up in less than 5 minutes.
In a large pitcher, add the iced tea, then the fruit juices. Stir in the sugar and lemon juice, and finish by adding in the ginger ale.
Garnish with your fresh fruit slices and add in ice cubes just before serving. A gallon pitcher works best as to allow for enough space for the tea, ice and fruit garnish.
To brew your own iced tea
If you’d like to brew your own tea at home to use in this fruit tea recipe, follow these simple steps.
To make a hot brew iced tea, in a large saucepan on medium heat, bring 8 cups water to a simmer. Remove from heat and add 6 tea bags*. Steep for about 4 minutes (or longer if you desire a stronger tea). Place in the fridge or allow to come to room temperature before making your fruit tea.
*If using loose leaf tea, use 3 tablespoons.
If you’d prefer a cold brew method, combine 8 cups cold water and 10 tea bags* in a pitcher. Cover and refrigerate 15 to 36 hours, until desired strength is reached.
*If using loose leaf tea, use 6 tablespoons.
Fruit tea recipe FAQ’s
Yes, this recipe is easuly customizable and swappable based off personal preferences and what you’ve got on hand. Pineapple juice and passion fruit juice would give this fruit tea recipe a nice blend of tropical flavors. And add dark rum for a spiked fruit tea! You can also easily swap the lemon juice for lime juice.
Add cinnamon stick or two to complement the warm flavors of cranberry and orange. If using a green tea base, mint leaves would also be lovely, and garnish with whatever favorite fruit you have on hand.
If using store bought, black tea is the usually the most common type sold. But you have more options if brewing your own. Use green tea bags, your favorite herbal tea, or give your fruit tea even more flavor by using passion fruit tea.
Adding in gin, rum or vodka would be a fun way to turn this into an adults only beverage. Refreshing, light and perfect for Summer parties. I would suggest you start by adding ½ cup of your favorite liquor, and adjust to taste & strength preference.
I know you’ll love this refreshing fruit tea all summer long! Serve alongside my grilled barbecue chicken thighs.
Tried this recipe? Please leave a comment and/or rating, letting me know how you enjoyed it! Connect with me on Instagram and Pinterest, and never miss a post by signing up for my weekly newsletter!
Refreshing Fruit Tea Recipe (Low Sugar)
Equipment
- 1 Glass pitcher
Ingredients
- 4 cups iced tea
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon fine sugar
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cups ginger ale
- orange slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pitcher, add the iced tea, then the fruit juices. Stir in the sugar and lemon juice, and finish by adding in the ginger ale.
- Garnish with your fresh fruit slices and add in ice cubes just before serving.
Henry says
Brewing your own iced tea at home can be a great way to enjoy a classic beverage with a personalized twist. If you want to make a refreshingly sweet iced tea, start by using either black or green tea leaves. Place the tea leaves into a metal basket strainer and place it into a glass pitcher or jar. Boil some water and pour it over the strainer – be sure not to over steep! Allow the leaves to soak for about 10 minutes before removing and discarding them. Meanwhile, add sugar or honey to taste and stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice for added flavor. When the mixture is done steeping, fill up the rest of the pitcher with cold water. Finally, grab some glasses from your cupboard and fill them up with ice cubes – pour in your freshly brewed iced tea and enjoy! To mix things up, instead of using lemon juice you can also use other fruit juices such as orange or grapefruit for an even more unique taste profile. For those who like their iced tea stronger, try adding more tea leaves when brewing and experiment with different types of sweeteners such as agave nectar or stevia extract. With just a few simple steps you can create tasty variations of delicious homemade iced teas that are sure to bring summery vibes all year round! https://www.yucoo.net/
Susie says
So delicious!!! Perfect for the 4th of July!