16 Good Southern Sweet Tea Recipe Get Cooking And Enjoy!

Published on: Mar 8, 2024

Southern sweet tea is a staple beverage in the South, and for good reason. It's the perfect combination of sweetness and refreshing flavor, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal or occasion. While there are many variations of this beloved drink, a good southern sweet tea recipe is a must-have in any cook's repertoire. In this article, we'll share our tried and true recipe for the perfect glass of sweet tea, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning of tea connoisseurs.

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 from the South, sweet tea is a staple in your home. It's the perfect refreshing drink on a hot summer day, and it's also a must-have at any family gathering or barbecue. But did you know that sweet tea can also be used in cooking? Specifically, in making beer can chicken! Here are 20 delicious and creative ways to incorporate Southern sweet tea into your next beer can chicken recipe.

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

First up, we have a classic recipe for sweet tea from Juanita's Kitchen. This recipe is simple and straightforward, using just a few ingredients including your favorite black tea, sugar, and lemon. The key to a good Southern sweet tea is to let it steep for at least an hour to get that deep, rich flavor. And of course, don't forget to add a splash of Ice for the perfect summer beverage.

3 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Granita

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

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

Southern Sweet Tea stock photo. Image of mason, representation - 101506494

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

For a unique twist on sweet tea, try making a granita! This frozen dessert is made by freezing sweet tea and then scraping it with a fork to create a shaved ice-like texture. Add a splash of Ice cold vodka for an adult version of this refreshing treat.

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

For those who prefer a less sweet tea, this recipe is for you. It uses a 3:1 ratio of tea to sugar, resulting in a perfectly balanced flavor that is not too sweet nor too bitter. Serve it cold with a few sprigs of fresh mint for a refreshing twist.

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 ...

Another classic recipe from Juanita's Kitchen, this sweet tea is made with a secret ingredient - orange juice! This adds a subtle citrus flavor to the tea that pairs perfectly with the sweetness. Add a splash of Ice cold vodka for an extra kick.

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

For a fun and creative recipe, try making this Southern sweet tea ‘shine! It's essentially a sweet tea infused with moonshine, resulting in a boozy and flavorful drink. Just be careful, it might sneak up on you!

7 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea With a Secret Ingredient

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

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

Another twist on the classic sweet tea, this recipe uses a secret ingredient - peach nectar! This adds a fruity and refreshing flavor to the tea, perfect for a hot summer day. Serve it over Ice with a few slices of fresh peaches for a beautiful presentation.

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

Simple Sweet Tea Brined Chicken | FaveSouthernRecipes.com

Brined Turkey Breast Glazed with Spiced Pinot Noir - Discover ...

Why limit sweet tea to just chicken? This recipe uses sweet tea brine to infuse flavor into a tender and juicy turkey breast. The result is a flavorful and unique twist on a classic 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

Who says sweet tea is just for drinking? These sweet tea popsicles are the perfect treat for a hot day. The addition of fresh mint adds a refreshing and cooling touch to this already delicious treat.

10 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Pick-Me-Up Popsicles

Main Ingredients: Water, Granulated Sugar, Tea Bags

southern sweet tea popsicles | The Baking Fairy

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

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

For a more adult version of sweet tea popsicles, try adding a splash of Ice cold vodka to the mix! These popsicles are perfect for a summer pool party or barbecue, and they are sure to be a hit with your guests.

11 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 ...

What's the secret to a perfect Southern sweet tea? According to this recipe, it's all in the way you brew the tea. Using loose-leaf tea and a simple syrup instead of sugar, this sweet tea is sure to impress even the most discerning of sweet tea connoisseurs.

12 of 40

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

Main Ingredients: Black Tea, Granulated Sugar, Soy Sauce

Looking for a unique side dish for your next barbecue? Look no further than this recipe for sweet tea roasted corn on the cob. The sweet tea adds a caramelized flavor to the corn, making it a delicious and unexpected addition to your meal.

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 ...

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

If you're new to making sweet tea, this recipe is perfect for you. It walks you through the process step by step, ensuring that you end up with a perfectly brewed sweet tea every time.

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

For a stronger and more flavorful sweet tea, try this recipe from Texas. It uses a higher ratio of tea to water, resulting in a bolder and more robust flavor. Serve it over Ice with a few lemon wedges for a refreshing summer 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

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea! | Recipe | Sweet tea, Strawberry, Food ...

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

This classic southern sweet tea is easy and delicious to make at home ...

For a fruity twist on Southern sweet tea, try adding some sweet strawberries to the mix. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the tea, creating a refreshing and delicious drink.

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

This recipe is for those who prefer a more basic sweet tea. It uses just tea bags, water, sugar, and lemon, making it a quick and easy option for any occasion. Serve it cold with a few fresh lemon slices for a classic Southern drink.

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 ...

This recipe is perfect for beginners, as it walks you through the process of making Southern sweet tea in a simple and easy way. With just a few ingredients and some fresh mint for garnish, you'll have a delicious and refreshing drink in no time.

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 more Southern twist on strawberry sweet tea, try this recipe that uses blackberry brandy in addition to strawberries. The result is a delicious and boozy sweet tea that is sure to be a hit.

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 watching your sugar intake, this recipe is for you. It uses a sugar-free sweetener and adds a hint of fresh rosemary and lemon for a unique and flavorful twist on traditional Southern sweet tea.

20 of 40

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea!

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

For a simple yet delicious recipe, try this one for Southern strawberry sweet tea. It uses just a few ingredients and is perfect for a hot summer day. Serve it over Ice and garnish with a few sweet strawberries for a beautiful presentation.

21 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea

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

Southern sweet tea is a staple in the southern United States, and for good reason. It's the perfect refreshing beverage on a hot summer day, and it's a must-have at any backyard barbecue or family gathering. There are countless variations of this classic drink, but we've compiled the top 20 beer can chicken recipes that use sweet tea as a main ingredient. Get ready to add some southern flavor to your next meal with these delicious and unique recipes.

22 of 40

Juanita's Sweet Tea - Southern Sweet Tea

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

Juanita's sweet tea is a beloved recipe that has been passed down for generations in the south. This version of southern sweet tea is made with a combination of black tea bags, sugar, and a secret ingredient that gives it an extra kick of flavor. It's the perfect balance of sweet and refreshing, and it's sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

23 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea Granita

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

Recipe: Southern Sweet Tea - Nashville Wife

If you're looking for a unique and refreshing dessert, look no further than this southern sweet tea granita. It's made with a strong brew of sweet tea, sugar, and lemon juice, and then frozen to create a delicious slushie-like treat. It's the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day, and it's sure to impress your guests at any gathering.

24 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 take on Juanita's sweet tea recipe, this version adds a twist by using honey instead of sugar. The result is a slightly sweeter and more floral flavor that is just as refreshing as the original. Serve it over ice with a sprig of mint for a truly southern experience.

25 of 40

Perfect Southern Sweet Tea

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

If you're new to making sweet tea, this is the recipe for you. This foolproof method produces a perfectly balanced sweet tea every time. The key is to steep the tea bags for just the right amount of time, and to add a pinch of baking soda to reduce any bitterness. Serve it with a slice of lemon for a classic southern touch.

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

For those who like a little kick in their sweet tea, this recipe is for you. It combines the classic southern flavors of sweet tea and moonshine to create a unique and potent drink. It's perfect for sipping on the porch with friends or using as a base for a cocktail.

27 of 40

Southern Sweet Tea With a Secret Ingredient

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

This recipe adds a twist to the classic southern sweet tea by using a secret ingredient - peach schnapps. The result is a fruity and refreshing drink that is perfect for summertime. Serve it over ice with a slice of peach for a truly southern experience.

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 ...

Who says sweet tea is just for drinking? This recipe uses sweet tea as a brine for a turkey breast, resulting in a flavorful and juicy meat. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to be a hit at your next holiday dinner or backyard barbecue.

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

These sweet tea popsicles with mint are the perfect treat for a hot summer day. They're made with a combination of sweet tea, lemon juice, and fresh mint leaves, and then frozen to create a refreshing and delicious treat. They're also a great way to use up any leftover sweet tea you may have.

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

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

If you need a little pick-me-up during the day, these sweet tea popsicles are just the ticket. They're made with a strong brew of sweet tea, honey, and a splash of lemon juice, and then frozen to create a caffeine boost in a tasty frozen treat. They're the perfect afternoon pick-me-up on a hot day.

31 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 ...

Every southern cook has their own secret to making the perfect sweet tea, and this recipe is no exception. The secret ingredient in this recipe is a splash of apple cider vinegar, which adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor to the sweet tea. Give it a try and see why this recipe is a southern favorite.

32 of 40

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

Main Ingredients: Black Tea, Granulated Sugar, Soy Sauce

Oven-Roasted Corn on the Cob - Immaculate Bites

Garlic Parmesan Baked Corn on the Cob Recipe – Baked Corn Recipe ...

If you're tired of the same old corn on the cob, this recipe is a must-try. It uses a sweet tea marinade to infuse the corn with flavor before roasting it to perfection. The result is a unique and delicious side dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

33 of 40

How to Make Sweet Tea-Southern Sweet Tea

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

Making sweet tea can seem intimidating, but with this step-by-step guide, you'll be a pro in no time. It covers everything from the type of tea to use, to the amount of sugar, and how to properly steep the tea bags. Once you master the art of making sweet tea, there's no going back.

34 of 40

Texas Tea - Southern Sweet Tea

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

Texas Tea Sugar Land Sweet Tea - Shop Tea at H-E-B

Southern Sweet Tea | Never Enough Thyme

Tea in Texas September/October 2013 by Texas TEA & TRAVEL Magazine - Issuu

This variation on the classic sweet tea recipe adds a touch of Texas flair with the addition of bourbon and triple sec. The result is a strong and flavorful drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot day. Serve it over ice with a wedge of lemon for a truly southern experience.

35 of 40

Strawberry Southern Sweet Tea

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

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

If you love strawberries, then this recipe is for you. It combines the classic flavors of sweet tea with the sweetness of fresh strawberries to create a delicious and unique drink. Serve it over ice with a few slices of strawberries for a refreshing and fruity twist on traditional sweet tea.

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 but still want to enjoy a glass of sweet tea, this recipe is for you. It uses just four ingredients - tea bags, sugar, water, and lemon - and takes only minutes to make. It's the perfect solution for when you need a quick and refreshing drink.

37 of 40

How to make Southern Sweet Tea

Main Ingredients: Sugar, Tea Bags, Water, Ice

How to Make Southern Style Sweet Tea - The Teacher's Wife

This recipe is another step-by-step guide for making the perfect southern sweet tea. It includes tips and tricks to get the best flavor, such as using filtered water and allowing the tea to steep for the right amount of time. Once you've mastered this recipe, you'll be making sweet tea like a true southerner.

38 of 40

Southern Style Strawberry Sweet Tea

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

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea recipe is just what you need on a hot day ...

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea - Spaceships and Laser Beams

This recipe puts a southern twist on the classic strawberry sweet tea by adding a splash of peach schnapps. The result is a sweet and fruity drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot day. Serve it over ice and garnish with a few slices of strawberries for a truly southern experience.

39 of 40

Sugar Free Southern Sweet Tea with Rosemary and Lemon

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

If you're watching your sugar intake but still want to enjoy a glass of sweet tea, this recipe is for you. It uses a sugar substitute, such as stevia or monk fruit, and adds a touch of rosemary and lemon for a unique and refreshing flavor. It's the perfect guilt-free drink for any occasion.

40 of 40

Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea!

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

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

This recipe takes the classic strawberry sweet tea to the next level by using a combination of fresh strawberries and strawberry jam. It adds an extra layer of sweetness and flavor to the drink, making it a must-try for any sweet tea lover. Serve it over ice and garnish with a sprig of mint for a beautiful and delicious drink.

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When it comes to making a good southern sweet tea, the quality of ingredients is key. This means using freshly brewed tea and high-quality sugar for the best results. While some may opt for artificial sweeteners, true southern sweet tea aficionados know that the real deal can't be beat. Use a large saucepan to boil water and steep your tea bags, and opt for a pure cane sugar for the perfect amount of sweetness.

Adding a Twist

While traditional sweet tea is always a crowd-pleaser, there's no harm in adding a twist to your recipe. For a citrusy kick, try adding a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice to your tea mixture. Or, for a tropical twist, add a few slices of fresh pineapple to your pitcher for a subtly sweet and fruity flavor. Get creative and experiment with different flavors to find your perfect blend.

The Secret Ingredient

There's one more ingredient that is essential to making the perfect southern sweet tea, and it may come as a surprise. Baking soda may seem like an odd addition, but it helps to neutralize the tannins in the tea, resulting in a smoother and less bitter taste. Just a pinch is all you need to take your sweet tea to the next level.

The Perfect Ratio

When it comes to the ratio of tea to sugar, it all comes down to personal preference. Some like their sweet tea on the sweeter side, while others prefer a more subtle sweetness. A good rule of thumb is to use one cup of sugar for every gallon of tea, but feel free to adjust to your liking. Just be sure to dissolve the sugar completely in hot water before adding it to your tea, to prevent any graininess.

Serving and Storing

Once your sweet tea is made, it's important to serve and store it correctly to maintain its delicious flavor. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices for a refreshing and visually appealing drink. If not serving immediately, store the tea in the fridge and add ice when ready to serve. Be sure to consume within a few days for the best taste. Now that you have the inside scoop on a good southern sweet tea recipe, it's time to put it to the test. With quality ingredients and a few secret tips, you'll be sipping on the perfect glass of sweet tea in no time. So go ahead and impress your friends and family with your newfound sweet tea-making skills.