Indulging in a glass of Cold Brew Cranberry Citrus Iced Tea is like sipping on a refreshing summer breeze. Imagine the tartness of cranberries mingling with the zesty brightness of citrus, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. delicious cranberry coffee cake As you take that first sip, the coolness washes over you, and you can’t help but feel like you’re lounging by a poolside, soaking up the sun.
This iced tea is perfect for those warm afternoons when you’re looking to impress your friends or simply treat yourself. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a lazy Sunday brunch, this delightful drink will elevate any occasion to new heights. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be counting down the days until summer rolls around again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cold Brew Cranberry Citrus Iced Tea is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days
- The unique flavor profile offers a delightful balance of tart and sweet
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and a hit at gatherings
- Enjoy it as is or customize with your favorite herbs and fruits for added flair
I still remember the first time I served this iced tea at my friend’s summer picnic; everyone was raving about it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cold Brew Tea Bags: Choose high-quality tea bags for the best flavor; I prefer loose-leaf tea for its robust taste.
- Cranberry Juice: Opt for 100% cranberry juice to avoid added sugars while enjoying that tart flavor.
- Citrus Fruits: Fresh lemons and oranges not only add zest but also brighten up the drink’s appearance.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: The mint enhances aroma and freshness; use whole sprigs for maximum impact.
- Ice Cubes: Make sure to use plenty of ice; no one likes a lukewarm iced tea!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Cold Brew Tea: Begin by steeping cold brew tea bags in cold water overnight in your refrigerator; this helps develop that smooth flavor we love.
Mix Cranberry Juice and Water: In a large pitcher, combine equal parts cranberry juice and cold water; stir well to mix them into a harmonious blend.
Add Fresh Citrus Slices: Slice fresh lemons and oranges into thin rounds; drop them into your pitcher for that vibrant pop of color and zesty flavor infusion.
Incorporate Fresh Mint Leaves: Gently bruise mint leaves before adding them to the pitcher; this releases their essential oils, enhancing the overall aroma of your iced tea.
Serve Over Ice: Fill glasses with ice cubes until overflowing; pour your cranberry citrus iced tea over the ice and watch it glisten beautifully.
Garnish and Enjoy!: Add a sprig of mint or an extra slice of citrus on top as garnish; this elevates both presentation and flavor for an impressive touch.
Now that you’ve crafted this refreshing beverage, sit back, relax, and savor every sip! There’s nothing quite like enjoying homemade Cold Brew Cranberry Citrus Iced Tea on a sunny day. tangy cranberry chutney.
You Must Know
- This refreshing Cold Brew Cranberry Citrus Iced Tea is more than just a drink; it’s a burst of flavor
- The perfect balance of tart cranberry and zesty citrus will impress your friends and keep you cool all summer long
- Enjoy it at picnics, barbecues, or as a delightful afternoon pick-me-up
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make this Cold Brew Cranberry Citrus Iced Tea perfectly, start by steeping the tea in cold water overnight. perfect pairing for iced tea Then, mix in cranberry juice and freshly squeezed citrus for the best flavor balance.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this recipe! You can swap out the citrus for your favorite fruits or add fresh mint for an extra zing. A splash of flavored sparkling water could also elevate the drink.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply pour over ice when ready to enjoy again; no reheating is needed!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a stronger flavor, use more tea bags or steep longer
- Avoid using overly sweet juices; a balance enhances taste
- Experiment with different fruit combinations for unique variations that excite your palate!
I remember hosting a summer barbecue and serving this iced tea. My guests were raving about how refreshing it was, and they kept asking for the recipe! It truly made my day.
FAQ
Can I use regular tea instead of cold brew?
Yes, but cold brew provides a smoother flavor without bitterness.
How long does it take to make Cold Brew Cranberry Citrus Iced Tea?
For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Pad Thai recipe.
The cold brew process takes about 12 hours, so plan ahead for delicious results.
Can I sweeten my iced tea?
Absolutely! Add honey or agave syrup to taste after mixing in juices.
Cold Brew Cranberry Citrus Iced Tea
- Total Time: 12 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 8 servings 1x
Description
Cold Brew Cranberry Citrus Iced Tea is the ultimate refreshing beverage for summer. With a perfect blend of tart cranberry and zesty citrus, this iced tea offers a delightful taste that captures the essence of sun-soaked days. Easy to make and visually stunning, it’s ideal for picnics, barbecues, or simply enjoying on your porch. Impress your guests with this vibrant drink that will have them asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 Cold Brew Tea Bags
- 2 cups 100% Cranberry Juice
- 2 cups Cold Water
- 1 Lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 Orange, thinly sliced
- Fresh Mint Leaves (to taste)
- Ice Cubes (as needed)
Instructions
- Steep the cold brew tea bags in cold water overnight in the refrigerator.
- In a large pitcher, combine cranberry juice and cold water; stir well.
- Add lemon and orange slices to the pitcher.
- Gently bruise fresh mint leaves before adding them to the mix.
- Fill glasses with ice and pour the cranberry citrus iced tea over the ice.
- Garnish with additional mint or citrus slices before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 hours (for cold brew)
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Cold Brewing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240ml)
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
