18 Best Southern Sweet Tea Recipe Unlock Flavor Sensations!

Published on: Mar 6, 2024

Southern sweet tea is a staple in the South, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Its refreshing taste and sweet flavor make it the perfect beverage for hot summer days, backyard barbecues, and family gatherings. While there are many variations of sweet tea, we believe that our recipe is the best one out there. Our tried and tested method of making sweet tea will yield a delicious and authentic result that will transport you to a front porch swing in the heart of the South.

Jump to Recipe

1 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Water, Tea Bags, Sugar, Lemons, Fresh Mint

Celebrate National Hammock Day with Our Southern Sweet Tea Recipe + a ...

If you're looking for the perfect summer drink to cool you down on a hot day, look no further than Southern sweet tea. This iconic refreshment is a staple in the South, and for good reason. Made with a combination of black tea, sugar, and sometimes a secret ingredient, this drink is both delicious and refreshing.

2 of 40

Juanita's Sweet Tea - Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Boiling Water, Tea Bag, Granulated Sugar, Cold Water

Traditional Southern Iced Sweet Tea | Orchids + Sweet Tea

Love and Confections: Simple Southern Sweet Tea + A Virtual Baby Shower

Southern Sweet Tea | The Kitchen is My Playground

One of the best things about Southern sweet tea is that everyone has their own recipe, passed down through generations. Juanita's sweet tea is a classic example of this, and it's the perfect balance of sweetness and tea flavor. It's a must-try for any sweet tea lover.

3 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Granita

Main Ingredients: Water, Sugar, Tea Bags, Heavy Cream, Lemon Zest

Sweet Tea Granita with Lemon Syrup Recipe | Sweet Cayenne

Southern Iced Sweet Tea Recipe - Lana’s Cooking

If you want to take your Southern sweet tea to the next level, try making it into a granita. This frozen treat is made by freezing sweet tea and scraping it into flakes, resulting in a deliciously refreshing dessert. It's the perfect ending to a summer barbecue.

4 of 40

Perfect Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Black Tea, Water, Sugar, Peach, Lemon, Mint

Perfect Southern Sweet Tea Recipe | Southern sweet tea, Sweet tea ...

three jars filled with iced tea sitting on top of a table

Some might say that making the perfect Southern sweet tea is an art form, and they wouldn't be wrong. The key is to find the perfect balance of tea, sugar, and any other ingredients you choose to add. With a little trial and error, you'll be able to make the perfect cup every time.

5 of 40

Juanita's Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Boiling Water, Tea Bag, Granulated Sugar, Cold Water

Southern Sweet Tea | The Best Blog Recipes

Spiked Southern Peach Sweet Tea • The Southern Thing | Sweet tea, Tea ...

Juanita's version of Southern sweet tea is a little different than the traditional recipe. She adds a splash of lemon juice to give it a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the tea. It's a refreshing twist on a classic drink.

6 of 40

Shrinking Southern Sweet Tea ‘Shine

Main Ingredients: Tea Bags, Green Tea Bags, Boiling Water, Stevia

Shrinking Southern Sweet Tea 'Shine | THM: Sipper | Recipe | Trim ...

Shrinking Southern Sweet Tea 'Shine | THM: Sipper

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of moonshine to your Southern sweet tea. This twist on the traditional recipe packs a punch and is a favorite among adults. Just be sure to drink responsibly!

7 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea With a Secret Ingredient

Main Ingredients: Baking Soda, Water, Tea Bags, Sugar

Traditional Southern Iced Sweet Tea | Simple Healthy Recipes, Complex ...

Served Up With Love: Southern Sweet Iced Tea

sweet tea in mason jars | Sweet tea recipes, Tea recipes, Iced tea recipes

Perfect Southern Sweet Tea – andtheRestumwashistory

As mentioned before, everyone has their own secret ingredient when it comes to making Southern sweet tea. Whether it's a pinch of baking soda or a splash of fruit juice, this secret ingredient adds a unique flavor to the tea that will keep your guests coming back for more.

8 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Brined Turkey Breast

Main Ingredients: Boneless Turkey Breast, Water, Lipton Tea Bags, Brown

Sweet Tea Brined Turkey Breast Recipe | Sweet Tea Brine

Sweet Tea Brined Chicken | Sweet Tea Chicken Recipe

Orange-Honey Glazed Turkey Breast - Cooking For My Soul

Southern sweet tea isn't just for drinking. It can also be used as a brine for meat, like this delicious turkey breast recipe. The tea adds a subtle sweetness and tenderizes the meat, resulting in a flavorful and juicy dish.

9 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Popsicles with Mint

Main Ingredients: Tea Bags, Water, Sugar, Fresh Mint Leaves

Peach Iced Tea Popsicles - Delight Fuel

Southern Sweet Tea | Dixie Crystals | Recipe | Sweet tea recipes, Tea ...

Southern Sweet Tea with Lime & Mint Recipe

For a fun twist on the classic drink, try making sweet tea popsicles with a hint of mint. These frozen treats are perfect for a hot summer day and will cool you down in no time. Plus, the mint adds a refreshing touch to the sweetness of the tea.

10 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Pick-Me-Up Popsicles

Main Ingredients: Water, Granulated Sugar, Tea Bags

Southern Sweet Tea (Induction, Phase1) | Lowcarb-ology Low Carb Paleo ...

Pin by Aimee Gabrielson on Fun Drinks | Southern sweet tea, Lipton tea ...

Enjoying a delicious Southern Sweet Tea Slushy is the perfect way to ...

If you need a little pick-me-up in the afternoon, these sweet tea popsicles are the perfect solution. Made with a little bit of caffeine, they'll give you the boost you need to power through the rest of the day. And the best part? They still taste delicious!

11 of 40

The Secret to Perfect Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Cold Water, Granulated White Sugar, Tea Bags

How To Make Sweet Tea | Recipe | Sweet tea recipes, Southern sweet tea ...

Perfect Sweet Tea Recipe - No. 2 Pencil

While everyone has their own recipe for Southern sweet tea, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to ensure you make the best cup possible. Some say to steep the tea for a specific amount of time, while others swear by using only filtered water. Experiment and find what works best for you.

12 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Roasted Corn on the Cob |...

Main Ingredients: Black Tea, Granulated Sugar, Soy Sauce

Best southern sweet tea recipe | Sweet tea recipes, Southern sweet tea ...

️The PERFECT Sweet Tea...with A Secret Ingredient! ️ | Mcdonald's sweet ...

Who says sweet tea is just for drinking? This recipe for roasted corn on the cob uses a glaze made with sweet tea, resulting in a unique and flavorful side dish. It's perfect for a summer barbecue or a side for your Thanksgiving turkey.

13 of 40

How to Make Sweet Tea-Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Tea Bags, Water, Sugar, Baking Soda

How to Make Real Southern Sweet Tea - Southern Love | Sweet tea recipe ...

If you've never made Southern sweet tea before, it may seem intimidating. But fear not, it's actually quite simple. All you need is tea, sugar, water, and a little bit of patience. Once you've mastered the basic recipe, you can start experimenting with different flavors and ingredients.

14 of 40

Texas Tea - Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Filtered Water, Tea Bags, Mint, Pineapple Juice

Simple Southern Sweet Tea - The Menu Maid

The New Southern Style Sweet Tea Recipe

While sweet tea is a staple in the South, it's also popular in other regions, like Texas. Known as "Texas tea," this version of Southern sweet tea often includes a splash of orange juice for a citrusy kick. It's a delicious twist on the classic drink.

15 of 40

Strawberry Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Strawberries, Water, Sugar, Tea Bags, Cold Water

Southern Style Strawberry Sweet Tea | Strawberry Tea Recipe

Strawberry Southern Sweet Tea | Drink | The Best Blog Recipes

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea! - My Incredible Recipes

Southern Strawberry Sweet Iced Tea - CincyShopper

If you love strawberries, you'll love this recipe for Southern sweet tea. Made with fresh strawberries and a hint of lemon, this drink is perfect for a hot summer day. And the best part? It's all natural and free of any artificial flavors or colors.

16 of 40

Simple Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Spring Water, Tea Bags, Baking Soda, Extra Fine

How to Make Sweet Tea Recipe - Grandbaby Cakes

If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a refreshing glass of sweet tea, this simple recipe is perfect for you. With just three ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious cup of Southern sweet tea in no time.

17 of 40

How to make Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Tea Bags, Water, Ice

How to Make the Perfect Southern Sweet Tea

How To Make Southern Sweet Tea | Recipe | Southern sweet tea, Flavored ...

How To Make Southern Sweet Tea | Recipe | Southern sweet tea, Sweet tea ...

If you're a visual learner, this step-by-step guide on how to make Southern sweet tea is perfect for you. With detailed instructions and helpful tips, you'll be able to make the perfect cup of sweet tea in no time. Plus, the photos will make your mouth water.

18 of 40

Southern Style Strawberry Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Frozen Strawberries, Water, Coconut Sugar, Tea Bags

50+Insanely Delicious Strawberry Recipe Roundup | Flavored tea recipes ...

Iced Strawberry Sweet Tea Recipe - Sugar and Soul

Iced Strawberry Tea Recipe - Sugar and Soul

For a truly Southern twist on sweet tea, try making this recipe with strawberry syrup. The syrup adds a burst of fruity flavor to the tea and makes it the perfect drink for a summer picnic or barbecue. You can even add a splash of vodka for a refreshing adult beverage.

19 of 40

Sugar Free Southern Sweet Tea with Rosemary and Lemon

Main Ingredients: Black Tea, Equal, Lemons, Fresh Rosemary, Water

Southern Sweet Tea, Refreshing Southern Thirst-Quencher Drink, Summer ...

How To Make Southern Sweet Tea | Recipe | Sweet tea recipes, Southern ...

If you're looking for a healthier version of Southern sweet tea, try making it without sugar. This recipe uses a sugar-free sweetener, along with fresh rosemary and lemon, to add a burst of flavor to the tea without the added calories. It's a guilt-free way to enjoy this classic drink.

20 of 40

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea!

Main Ingredients: Water, Tea Bags, Sugar, Lemon Juiced, Lime Juiced

This recipe for Southern strawberry sweet tea is bursting with flavor. Made with fresh strawberries and a hint of mint, it's the perfect drink to cool you down on a hot day. And the best part? It's all natural and free of any artificial flavors or colors.

21 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Water, Tea Bags, Sugar, Lemons, Fresh Mint

Southern sweet tea is a staple in many households, especially in the hot summer months. It's the perfect combination of refreshing and sweet, making it the ideal drink to cool down with on a hot day. But did you know that you can also use southern sweet tea in a variety of recipes? From marinades to popsicles, there are endless ways to incorporate this classic drink into your cooking. Here are the top 20 beer can chicken recipes that use southern sweet tea.

22 of 40

Juanita's Sweet Tea - Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Boiling Water, Tea Bag, Granulated Sugar, Cold Water

Sweet Tea: A Southern Staple - thehouseandhomemagazine.com

Southern Sweet Tea- Simple and Refreshing Classic Recipe

This recipe is a classic southern sweet tea that has been passed down for generations in the Juanita family. It's simple yet delicious, and the perfect base for any of the beer can chicken recipes on this list. All you need is water, tea bags, sugar, and a lemon to make this refreshing drink. So why not give Juanita's sweet tea a try?

23 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Granita

Main Ingredients: Water, Sugar, Tea Bags, Heavy Cream, Lemon Zest

If you're looking for a unique and refreshing dessert, then this southern sweet tea granita is the perfect choice. It's a frozen dessert made with a mixture of tea, sugar, and lemon juice. The result is a slushy, granita-like texture that is both sweet and tangy. Serve it as a light and refreshing dessert after your beer can chicken dinner.

24 of 40

Perfect Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Black Tea, Water, Sugar, Peach, Lemon, Mint

Southern Sweet Iced Tea | Southern sweet tea, Sweet tea, Sweet tea recipes

Everyone has their own idea of the perfect southern sweet tea, but this recipe comes pretty close. It uses a combination of black tea bags, sugar, and a secret ingredient – baking soda. The baking soda helps to neutralize any bitterness in the tea, resulting in a perfectly balanced and sweet drink.

25 of 40

Juanita's Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Boiling Water, Tea Bag, Granulated Sugar, Cold Water

How to Make Classic Southern Sweet Tea | Fluster Buster

Another delicious recipe from the Juanita family, this southern sweet tea is a must-try. It's made with black tea bags, sugar, and a touch of brown sugar for added depth of flavor. You can also add a squeeze of lemon or a sprig of fresh mint for a little extra kick.

26 of 40

Shrinking Southern Sweet Tea ‘Shine

Main Ingredients: Tea Bags, Green Tea Bags, Boiling Water, Stevia

Sugarlands Shine Southern Sweet Tea Moonshine 750ml - MoreWines

[BUY] Sugarlands Shine Southern Sweet Tea Moonshine at CaskCartel.com

This unique recipe combines the flavors of southern sweet tea with moonshine for a truly southern twist. The moonshine adds a little extra kick to the sweet tea, and it's the perfect marinade for beer can chicken. Just be sure to enjoy this recipe responsibly!

27 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea With a Secret Ingredient

Main Ingredients: Baking Soda, Water, Tea Bags, Sugar

This southern sweet tea recipe has a secret ingredient that sets it apart from the rest – honey. The honey adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the tea, making it the perfect base for a variety of beer can chicken marinades.

28 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Brined Turkey Breast

Main Ingredients: Boneless Turkey Breast, Water, Lipton Tea Bags, Brown

Brined Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe

Sweet Tea Brined Cornbread Crusted Chicken Biscuit | Recipe | Crusted ...

Not a fan of chicken? No problem! This recipe uses the same principles of beer can chicken but with a turkey breast instead. The turkey is brined in a mixture of southern sweet tea, apple cider vinegar, and spices for a juicy and flavorful main dish.

29 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Popsicles with Mint

Main Ingredients: Tea Bags, Water, Sugar, Fresh Mint Leaves

Lipton Iced Tea Southern Sweet Nutrition Facts | Blog Dandk

southern sweet tea popsicles - The Baking Fairy | Recipe | Southern ...

Southern Sweet Tea Pick-Me-Up Popsicles ~ The Kitchen Snob

If you're looking for a creative and refreshing way to enjoy southern sweet tea, then these popsicles are a must-try. They're made with a mixture of sweet tea, fresh mint, and a touch of lemon juice. The result is a deliciously sweet and tangy popsicle that is perfect for those hot summer days.

30 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Pick-Me-Up Popsicles

Main Ingredients: Water, Granulated Sugar, Tea Bags

Southern Sweet Tea ~ Polishing Pemberley Southern Sweet Tea

Need a little pick-me-up? These popsicles are the perfect solution. They're made with a combination of southern sweet tea, coffee, and a touch of vanilla extract. It's like a frozen sweet tea latte on a stick – what's not to love?

31 of 40

The Secret to Perfect Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Cold Water, Granulated White Sugar, Tea Bags

ut so much money on tea, so I searched and searched for sweet tea ...

If you've ever struggled with making the perfect southern sweet tea, then this recipe is for you. The secret to this tea is in the preparation – you have to let it steep for at least 3 hours to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. Trust us, it's worth the wait.

32 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Roasted Corn on the Cob |...

Main Ingredients: Black Tea, Granulated Sugar, Soy Sauce

This recipe is a unique twist on a classic southern side dish. The corn on the cob is marinated in a mixture of southern sweet tea, olive oil, and spices before being roasted to perfection. It's a delicious and unexpected addition to any beer can chicken dinner.

33 of 40

How to Make Sweet Tea-Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Tea Bags, Water, Sugar, Baking Soda

If you're new to making southern sweet tea, then this recipe is a great place to start. It's a simple and straightforward recipe that uses black tea bags, sugar, and a touch of orange juice for added sweetness. Follow the steps and you'll have a delicious batch of sweet tea in no time.

34 of 40

Texas Tea - Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Filtered Water, Tea Bags, Mint, Pineapple Juice

Everything is bigger in Texas, including their sweet tea. This recipe is a southern-style Texas tea that uses a combination of black tea bags, sugar, and a touch of peach schnapps for a little extra flavor. It's the perfect drink to enjoy alongside your beer can chicken dinner.

35 of 40

Strawberry Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Strawberries, Water, Sugar, Tea Bags, Cold Water

Looking for a fruity twist on classic southern sweet tea? This strawberry version is a must-try. It's made with a combination of black tea bags, sugar, and fresh strawberries for a sweet and tangy flavor. Serve it over ice for a refreshing summer drink.

36 of 40

Simple Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Spring Water, Tea Bags, Baking Soda, Extra Fine

Southern Sweet Tea Recipe | The Domestic Diva

If you're short on time, this simple southern sweet tea recipe is the perfect choice. It uses only 4 ingredients – black tea bags, sugar, water, and a dash of salt to enhance the flavors. It's quick and easy to make, but still packs a sweet and refreshing punch.

37 of 40

How to make Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Tea Bags, Water, Ice

How To Make Southern Sweet Tea | Recipe | Sweet tea, Tea recipes ...

If you're a visual learner, then this recipe is for you. With step-by-step instructions and helpful images, you'll have no trouble making the perfect batch of southern sweet tea. Plus, it's a great resource for those who are new to sweet tea making.

38 of 40

Southern Style Strawberry Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Frozen Strawberries, Water, Coconut Sugar, Tea Bags

This southern-style strawberry sweet tea is a refreshing and unique take on the classic drink. It's made with black tea bags, sugar, and a homemade strawberry syrup for added flavor. Serve it over ice for a sweet and refreshing summer drink.

39 of 40

Sugar Free Southern Sweet Tea with Rosemary and Lemon

Main Ingredients: Black Tea, Equal, Lemons, Fresh Rosemary, Water

If you're looking for a healthier version of southern sweet tea, then this recipe is for you. It uses a combination of stevia and honey to sweeten the tea, and adds a touch of rosemary and lemon for a unique twist. It's a guilt-free way to enjoy this southern classic.

40 of 40

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea!

Main Ingredients: Water, Tea Bags, Sugar, Lemon Juiced, Lime Juiced

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea - Spaceships and Laser Beams

This southern strawberry sweet tea recipe is a game-changer. It's made with a combination of black tea bags, sugar, and frozen strawberries for a slushy and refreshing drink. It's the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day.

The Secret Ingredient: Simple Syrup

One of the key elements in our southern sweet tea recipe is simple syrup. This ingredient is what sets our recipe apart from others and gives our tea the perfect balance of sweetness. Simple syrup is made by combining equal parts sugar and water and heating it until the sugar dissolves. This allows the sugar to fully incorporate into the tea, creating a smooth and consistent flavor. Don't be afraid to add a little extra simple syrup if you prefer a sweeter tea – after all, it's all about personal preference.

The Importance of Brewing Time

Another crucial factor in making the best southern sweet tea is the brewing time. While some recipes call for steeping the tea bags for a short amount of time, we believe in letting the tea steep for at least 30 minutes. This allows the tea to fully infuse with the water, creating a stronger and more flavorful base for the simple syrup to be added to. Trust us, the longer you let the tea steep, the better the end result will be.

Don't Forget the Ice

One of the key ingredients in any sweet tea recipe is ice. Not only does it help to cool down the tea, but it also dilutes the strong flavor of the tea to create a more balanced taste. Make sure to add enough ice to your pitcher before serving to ensure that your sweet tea is chilled to perfection. And if you want to take it one step further, try using flavored ice cubes or adding a splash of lemonade for a unique twist on this classic beverage.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Our best southern sweet tea recipe is not only delicious, but it's also versatile. It can be served at any occasion – from a casual backyard barbecue to a fancy dinner party. And if you want to take it up a notch, try adding some fresh fruit or herbs to your tea for a fun and flavorful twist. The possibilities are endless, and we guarantee that our recipe will be a hit with everyone who tries it. In conclusion, our best southern sweet tea recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the true taste of the South. With the perfect balance of sweetness and a few secret ingredients, our recipe will have you sipping on a glass of sweet tea and feeling like a true Southerner in no time. So why wait? Grab your pitcher and ingredients and start brewing your own batch of delicious southern sweet tea today.