Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This refined sugar-free sweet tea is a delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of sweet tea without the added sugars. Sweetened with date syrup, it’s naturally rich in nutrients and has a delightful sweetness. The addition of lemon gives it a fresh, zesty twist, while the option to include mint or fruit adds a fun variation. It’s a versatile, hydrating drink that everyone can enjoy, even those on special diets.
Ingredients
- 5 black tea bags
- 1 cup dates (tightly packed)
- 10 cups water (2 cups boiling water for steeping tea, 4 cups cold water for date syrup, 4 cups cold water for mixing)
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- Ice cubes
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Add 5 black tea bags to 2 cups of boiling water. Let steep, covered, for 2 hours.
- While the tea is steeping, make the date syrup by adding the dates and 4 cups of cold water to a pot. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 25 minutes.
- Strain out the dates and reserve the syrup. Let it cool.
- Once the tea has steeped, combine the tea, date syrup, and 4 cups of cold water in a large pitcher.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes, add a lemon slice, and pour the sweet tea over it.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep time: 4 hours (including steeping time)
- Total time: 4 hours
Variations
- Fruit Additions: Add fresh peach slices, berries, or citrus for an extra burst of flavor.
- Herb Options: Add fresh mint leaves for a cool, refreshing note.
- Other Sweeteners: If you prefer, you can swap date syrup for maple syrup or agave nectar.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: This sweet tea is best enjoyed chilled, but you can reheat it if you prefer it warm.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can substitute the date syrup with maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer.
2. How long do I need to steep the tea?
For a robust flavor, steep the tea for 2 hours. If you’re in a hurry, 1 hour will still provide great taste.
3. Can I use decaffeinated tea?
Yes, you can use decaffeinated black tea if you prefer a caffeine-free version of this sweet tea.
4. How can I make the tea sweeter?
If you find the tea isn’t sweet enough, simply add more date syrup or sweetener of your choice.
5. How should I store the sweet tea?
Store any leftover sweet tea in a sealed pitcher or container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
6. Can I add other flavors to this tea?
Yes, fresh fruit like berries or citrus, or herbs like mint, can be added to customize the flavor.
7. Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, this tea is naturally sweetened and has no refined sugar, making it a great option for kids.
8. Can I use a different kind of tea?
Yes, you can substitute the black tea with other varieties like Earl Grey or even herbal teas.
9. How do I make this tea if I don’t have a strainer?
You can use cheesecloth or a fine mesh bag to strain the date syrup.
10. Can I serve this tea hot?
This recipe is for iced tea, but you can heat it if you prefer hot tea, though it’s best served chilled.
Conclusion
This refined sugar-free sweet tea is the perfect blend of sweetness and flavor, without the guilt. Ideal for any occasion, it’s simple to make and full of natural, wholesome ingredients. With its refreshing taste and customizable options, this sweet tea will quickly become a favorite drink for you and your family!
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Sweet Tea (Refined Sugar-Free)
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a refreshing, refined sugar-free sweet tea that’s naturally sweetened with date syrup for a healthier twist on the classic. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or just a thirst-quenching treat, this iced tea is bursting with flavor and no refined sugar, making it suitable for a variety of diets and occasions.
Ingredients
5 black tea bags
1 cup dates (tightly packed)
10 cups water (2 cups boiling water for steeping tea, 4 cups cold water for date syrup, 4 cups cold water for mixing)
1 lemon (sliced)
Ice cubes
Instructions
-
Add 5 black tea bags to 2 cups of boiling water. Let steep, covered, for 2 hours.
-
While the tea is steeping, make the date syrup by adding the dates and 4 cups of cold water to a pot. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 25 minutes.
-
Strain out the dates and reserve the syrup. Let it cool.
-
Once the tea has steeped, combine the tea, date syrup, and 4 cups of cold water in a large pitcher.
-
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
-
To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes, add a lemon slice, and pour the sweet tea over it.
Notes
This recipe makes 6 servings of sweet tea.
If you prefer more sweetness, adjust the amount of date syrup to taste.
Experiment with fruit or herbs for extra flavor, such as peach slices or fresh mint.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 4 hours
- Category: Drink, Beverage
- Method: Steep, Boil
- Cuisine: American
