There’s nothing quite like a refreshing glass of iced tea on a warm day. Whether you’re looking for a quick single serving or a pitcher to share with family and friends, there’s a brewing method that’s perfect for every occasion.
While our iced tea recipe card has been a customer favorite for years, did you know that different brewing methods can create different flavor profiles? Hot brewing produces a bright, full-bodied cup, while cold brewing extracts different flavor compounds, resulting in a smoother, naturally sweeter tea with lower caffeine.
Try all four methods and discover your favorite!
1. The Quick Method
Need iced tea now? This method is perfect when you don’t want to wait.
- Place 2 teaspoons of loose-leaf tea in an infuser.
- Add 8 ounces of water at the recommended temperature for your tea.
- Steep for the recommended time.
- Pour directly over a glass full of ice.
Makes one serving.
2. The Patient Method
If you have a little extra time, this classic method creates a perfectly balanced glass of iced tea.
- Place 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf tea in an infuser.
- Add 8 ounces of water at the recommended temperature for your tea.
- Steep for the recommended time.
- Chill in the refrigerator, then serve over ice.
Makes one serving.
3. The Cold Infusion Method
Cold brewing couldn’t be easier! This method produces a smooth, mellow cup that’s naturally sweet and refreshing. Since tea steeps slowly in cold water, different flavor compounds are extracted than with hot brewing, and the resulting tea is generally lower in caffeine.
- Fill a Size 4 T-sac with approximately 1 ounce of loose-leaf tea.
- Place the T-sac in a one-gallon pitcher and fill with cold, filtered water.
- Refrigerate while the tea infuses:
- Black teas: 6–8 hours
- Green and white teas: 2–4 hours
- Remove the T-sac and serve over ice.
Makes one gallon.
4. The Party Method
Hosting friends or family? Brew a concentrate, then let the ice do the rest.
- Fill a Size 4 T-sac with 1 ounce of loose-leaf tea.
- Place the T-sac in a one-gallon pitcher.
- Add ½ gallon of water at the recommended temperature for your tea.
- Steep for the recommended time.
- Remove the T-sac, then fill the pitcher with ice to make one gallon of perfectly chilled iced tea.
Makes one gallon.
A Note About Herbal Infusions
These recipes are designed for true teas—black, green, white, and oolong. If you’re brewing an herbal infusion, use approximately three times the amount of herbs for full flavor.
We also recommend preparing herbal infusions with hot water rather than using the cold infusion method. Unlike true teas, many herbs are not processed at temperatures high enough to eliminate naturally occurring bacteria that may be present after harvest.
Which Method Will You Choose?
There’s no wrong way to enjoy iced tea! If you love a bold, classic flavor, one of the hot brewing methods may become your go-to. If you prefer a smoother, naturally sweeter cup, give cold infusion a try.
The fun part is experimenting. Brew the same tea using different methods and taste the difference for yourself. You might discover a new favorite way to enjoy your favorite tea this summer.
Download a 6″x4″ Iced Tea Recipes card for all four methods.
Looking for delicious iced options? Stock up on tea blends that are great hot or iced!
