How long does homemade apple iced tea last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in a sealed container, this iced tea stays fresh for 3-4 days. The natural acids from the lemon juice help preserve it, but for best flavor, consume within 2 days.

Can I use tea bags instead of loose tea leaves?

Yes, you can substitute 2-3 tea bags for loose leaves. Follow the same steeping time and temperature guidelines, and remove the bags after 3 minutes to prevent over-extraction.

Is it necessary to use filtered water?

While not absolutely necessary, filtered water produces better-tasting tea by removing chlorine and other chemicals that can interfere with flavor. If you only have tap water, let it sit uncovered for 30 minutes before heating to allow chlorine to evaporate.

Can I make this recipe without apple juice?

Yes, though the flavor will be more subtle. Increase the number of apple slices to 2 apples and let the mixture steep longer to extract more apple flavor from the fruit itself.

What's the best way to crush mint leaves?

Gently rub the leaves between your palms or fingers to bruise them and release their oils. Avoid chopping or tearing them too aggressively, which can create a bitter taste.

Can I prepare this tea hot and serve it warm?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully as a hot beverage. Simply skip the ice and serve immediately after adding the apple juice and lemon juice to the warm tea base.

Apple Iced Tea Recipe: Easy Homemade Refreshing Drink (Ready in 30 Min)

Name: Apple Iced Tea Recipe - Homemade Apple Iced Tea
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American-Inspired
Ingredients: 2-3 teaspoons loose black or green tea leaves (or 2-3 tea bags); 300ml filtered water; 250ml high-quality apple juice; 1 fresh apple, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); 4-6 fresh mint leaves; 1 lemon, sliced into wedges; Ice cubes

Apple Iced Tea Recipe – Homemade Apple Iced Tea

Print Recipe

A refreshing homemade apple iced tea recipe made with fresh apples, brewed tea, lemon, and mint. It’s light, naturally sweetened, and perfect for warm afternoons or entertaining guests with a healthier twist on flavored iced tea.

Author: Alexandra Roa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Beverage
Method: Steeped and Chilled
Cuisine: American-Inspired

Ingredients

Scale

2–3 teaspoons loose black or green tea leaves (or 2–3 tea bags)
300ml filtered water
250ml high-quality apple juice
1 fresh apple, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
4–6 fresh mint leaves
1 lemon, sliced into wedges
Ice cubes

Instructions

Heat 300ml of filtered water in a saucepan until small bubbles form. Remove from heat and add tea leaves or bags. Steep for 3 minutes, then strain and let cool for 20 minutes.
Stir in lemon juice and honey (if using) while tea is still slightly warm. Chill the mixture or add ice to cool it down.
In a serving pitcher, add apple slices, lemon wedges, and gently crushed mint leaves.
Pour in 250ml of apple juice followed by ice cubes.
Top with the cooled tea mixture and stir gently to combine all ingredients.
Garnish with extra apple slices and mint sprigs. Serve immediately or let sit for 15-20 minutes for deeper flavor.

Notes

Use Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith apples for best flavor. If using green tea, reduce steeping to 2 minutes. For extra clarity, strain tea twice. For variations, try adding spices, switching to green tea, or making it a spiked evening drink with a splash of bourbon or rum.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass
Calories: 70
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: iced tea, apple iced tea, summer drink, refreshing, homemade tea, mint, lemon, apple juice

Find it online: https://alexandrarecipes.com/apple-iced-tea-recipe/