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classic cold brew iced black tea served over ice with lemon twist

Classic Cold Brew Iced Black Tea

Ultra-smooth cold brew iced black tea with gentle honey sweetness and a subtle lemon aroma. Clean, mellow, and naturally low in bitterness — a refined cold-brew take on classic iced tea.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cold Brew Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Drinks
Calories: 35
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

BLACK TEA BASE
  • 1.65 L water
  • 5 item black tea bags Ceylon or light breakfast tea
FLAVORING
  • 2-3 tbsp mild honey to taste
  • 1 strip lemon peel yellow part only; no white pith
TO SERVE
  • item ice
  • item lemon slice or twist

Method
 

  1. Place the tea bags (or loose leaves in a filter) into a large pitcher. Add the cold water, cover, and refrigerate for 6–12 hours, depending on desired strength. Do not stir or agitate during brewing.
  2. Remove the tea bags or strain out the leaves. Stir in 2 tablespoons of honey until fully dissolved. Taste and add up to 1 additional tablespoon only if needed.
  3. Add the strip of lemon peel to the cold-brewed tea. Let infuse in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes only, just until a gentle citrus aroma develops. Remove the peel promptly.
  4. Fill glasses with ice, pour over the cold brew iced tea, and garnish with a lemon slice or twist if desired.

Notes

  • Cold brewing extracts fewer tannins, resulting in a smoother, rounder flavor than hot-brewed iced tea.
  • Use light black tea; heavy or smoky teas lose clarity when cold brewed.
  • Lemon is aromatic only — never add lemon juice to cold brew black tea.
  • Keeps well refrigerated for up to 48 hours.